Alexander Kielland Krag has been nominated for the prestigious German Children’s Book Prize, Deutscher Jugendliteraturpreis 2024, for his book «Litt Redd, Bare».
Alexander Kielland Krag Nominated for the German Children’s Book Prize
Alexander Kielland Krag has recently been nominated for the prestigious German Children’s Book Prize, Deutscher Jugendliteraturpreis 2024, for his book «Litt Redd, Bare» (translated as «Just a Little Scared» or «Nur ein wenig Angst»). This nomination comes in the young adult book category, as reported by Bok365.no.
Kielland Krag’s book, «Litt Redd, Bare», has already received recognition in Norway, where he was awarded the Uprisen and nominated for the Norwegian Ministry of Culture’s Children’s and Youth Book Prize. The author’s work has gained popularity not only in Norway but also in Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands, where his books are being published.
A Captivating Story of Fear and Resilience
“Litt Redd, Bare” tells the captivating story of Cornelius, a 17-year-old boy who suddenly starts experiencing panic attacks. These attacks make him fearful in the presence of his friends and even cause him to collapse on the soccer field. As a result, Cornelius’s supposedly «normal» teenage life falls apart.
Alexander Kielland Krag masterfully narrates the story from Cornelius’s perspective, using a deliberately condensed writing style. The book’s design reflects the character’s threatening experiences, with some pages intentionally left blank. This visual representation mirrors the speechlessness that often overcomes Cornelius, effectively conveying his inner turmoil.
The interplay between form and content in «Litt Redd, Bare» creates a nuanced and emotionally impactful reading experience. The language itself is a powerful tool, with the author employing haunting weather metaphors to poetically condense Cornelius’s experiences. These metaphors serve as a vivid illustration of his journey.
Breaking Stigmas and Embracing Help
One of the book’s significant themes is the stigmatisation of mental illnesses, particularly within the context of masculinity. Alexander Kielland Krag skilfully breaks down these stigmas through the interactions between Cornelius and his father, as well as within his circle of friends. The story sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals dealing with mental health issues and encourages empathy and understanding.
Restless and breathless, the narrative follows Cornelius as he seeks help and ultimately learns to accept it. The story’s progression is both gripping and heartwarming, as the main character finds the strength to confront his fears and work towards healing.
The translation of «Litt Redd, Bare» into German by Gabriele Haefs deserves special mention. Haefs has carefully and skilfully captured the novel’s unique tone, striking a balance between sobriety and poetics. This translation allows German readers to fully immerse themselves in the emotional depth of the story.
The German Children’s Book Prize will be awarded at the Frankfurt Book Fair on 18 October 2024 . Alexander Kielland Krag’s nomination for «Litt Redd, Bare» is a testament to his exceptional storytelling and the impact his work has had on readers across different countries.