War Diaries, 1939–1945

Starred review from November 15, 2016

In this collection, newly translated into English, Lindgren (1907-2002), author of the "Pippi Longstocking" books, recounts her experience of World War II from the relative safety of Sweden's borders, sharing everyday accounts, as witnessed by those at the heart of it, through her work in the censor's office. The diary is supplemented by news reports, press cuttings, and personal reflection, making it a compelling and well-researched narrative full of passion and a constant yearning for peace and change. Lindgren's diary is detailed, informative, and incredibly engaging, revealing the realities of neutrality in times of war. Descriptions of her work at the censor's office add an extra layer of emotion, providing insight into those living outside of Sweden's borders and encountering the fighting and privations firsthand, as well as harrowing details of the atrocities in Europe, particularly as seen in Norway, Finland, and the Baltics. Death's translation reads very well, with Lindgren's voice shining throughout. VERDICT An unexpected treat for any World War II buff but especially for readers of women's memoirs. Lindgren writes as if for an audience, weaving a narrative that is full of historical significance. --Gricel Dominguez, Florida International Univ. Lib.

Copyright 2016 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

May 1, 2017
What a remarkable book: a detailed, intelligent, compassionate record of living through WWII, written by a young aspiring writer, wife, motherand future internationally famous author. (It's evident even in the diary entries that she is a gifted writer: Poor human raceI'm staggered by the amount of sickness and distress, grief, unemployment, poverty and despair that can be fitted into this wretched earth. ) Lindgren made her first diary entry on September 1, 1939, the day Hitler invaded Poland, and the last on New Year's Eve, 1945; in between she meticulously and faithfully documented the progression and costs of the war, filling seventeen notebooks with newspaper clippings and her own cogent commentary. There's so much to be fascinated by: from the Lindgrens' daily life in Stockholm (food rationing, birthdays, blackouts, swimming lessons, etc.); to Sweden's precarious but blessed position as a neutral nation, free but holding off both the Soviets and the Nazis, to her literally global reporting (Lindgren documents the war in Greece, northern Africa, Russia, Norway, Japaneverywhere). And of course it's difficult not to draw parallels to current events ( a terrible despondency weighs on everything and everyone ). Throughout, readers can trace the birth of Pippi Longstocking, from bedtime stories told to Lindgren's anxious daughter Karin to published novel. A treasure trove of a book; not to be missed. martha v. parravano

(Copyright 2017 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)