There are moments when unexpected people persevere despite opposition and challenges. This week The Palestinian Tamer Institute for Community Education was awarded children's literature's richest and largest prize, the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award.
For the last 20 year The Palestinian Tamer Institute for Community Education has diligently worked to promote reading in the West Bank and Gaza strip.
Set up in 1989 during the first Intifada, the Tamer Institute started working with children and young people to develop supplemental learning and alternatives to their dire circumstances.
The Astrid Lindgren judges lauded the center's"perseverance, audacity, and resourcefulness, which has stimulated Palestinian children's and young adult's love of reading and creativity."
Under difficult circumstances, the Institute carries out reading promotion of an unusual breadth and versatility. In the spirit of Astrid Lindgren, the Tamer Institute acknowledges the power of words and the strenth of books, stories and imagination as important keys to self-esteem, tolerance, and the courage to face life."
The Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award was set-up seven years ago in memory of Sweden's beloved writer and her"deeply humanistic spirit." Each year the award is given to an author,illustrator,or organizaiton that encourages reading and increases an interest in children's literature.
Along with The Tamer Institute other nominee's were Quentin Blake, Michael Morpurgo and Eva Ibbotson.
Previous winners have included Philip Pullman,Maurice Sendak and sonya Hartnett. Crown Princess Victoria will present the award and prize of 5 million Swedish kronor on June 2nd.
Photos of Astrid Lindgren are stock photos.
