TEHRAN- The Iranian Association of Writers for Children and Youth unveiled its nominees for the prestigious Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award (ALMA) on Sunday.

Writer Ahmad Akbarpour and illustrator Hoda Haddadi will be competing for the prestigious Swedish prize for children’s literature in the world.

A press release from the association detailed Akbarpour's selection, highlighting his innovative storytelling techniques, experimentation across genres, and international reach. His works have been translated and studied globally, and his commitment extends to research, writing for children with special needs, and promoting universal values like peace, friendship, tolerance, and family. The statement further emphasized his continuous 30-year presence in the field, actively engaging in cultural activities across the country through storytelling workshops for various age groups.

Haddadi's nomination recognizes her over two decades of excellence in children's literature, encompassing both illustration and writing. The association lauded her contributions to the growth of picture books, her bold and creative illustrations, and her commitment to exploring themes of women and nature. Notably, she pioneered collage techniques in illustration, garnered international recognition through publications and exhibitions, and conducted workshops abroad.

Her focus on human rights, regardless of gender, and themes of peace, love, rebellion, freedom, and environmentalism resonated with audiences. Haddadi has also shared her expertise through workshops held in Britain, Bulgaria, and Serbia, further solidifying her international standing.

It's important to note that the Institute for Research on History of Children's Literature and the Institute for Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults (IIDCY-Kanoon) also hold nomination rights for the ALMA on behalf of Iran.

The Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award (ALMA) amounts to SEK 5 million (about €570,000), making it the world’s largest award for children’s and young adults’ literature.

The award was established in 2002 by the Swedish National Council for Cultural Affairs to commemorate Swedish writer Astrid Lindgren and to promote children’s and youths’ literature from around the world.

The nomination process kicked off in March 2024, and every year, around 250 individuals and organizations from all over the world are nominated for the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award. The candidates are authors, illustrators, oral storytellers and reading promoters.

The winner will be chosen by a jury and announced sometime later this year. The award ceremony typically takes place in the spring of the following year. Earning the ALMA brings not only significant prize money but also international recognition for the laureate's work in promoting children's rights and fostering a love of literature in young readers around the world.

SAB/