The work of Laurie Halse Anderson

A survivor who refuses to be silenced. That is how Laurie Halse Anderson describes herself in her poetic memoir Shout (2019), and it is true for many of her main characters as well. In her richly expressive novels for young people-all narrated in the first person-Anderson gives voice to the adolescent experience with sometimes brutal honesty. Here is resignation, even desperation, but also a determination for change kept alive by the search for meaning, identity, and truth.
Presented by Elina Druker, Professor of Literature and member of the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award Jury.
The Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award was created in 2002 by the Swedish government to promote every child’s right to great stories. This global award is given annually to a person or organisation for their outstanding contribution to children’s and young adult literature. With a prize of five million Swedish kronor, it is the largest award of its kind.