Three children’s books represented by Rights & Brands nominated for the 2026 Runeberg Junior Prize
10 November 2025
Three children’s books represented by Rights & Brands nominated for the 2026 Runeberg Junior Prize
Newcomer children’s book author Linn Henrichson joins the contention for the 2026 Runeberg Junior Prize together with Maija Hurme, Matti Rönkä and Matti Pikkujämsä.
Greedy Gull (Fuskmåsen Fy, 2025 Förlaget M), the daring and skilled snack swiper featured in Henrichson’s debut picture book, explores themes of foul play and deception. Its skillfully lyrical text, combined with bold and expressive illustration, results in a great dialogue that perfectly portrays the spirit of the sneaky beaks that circle over market squares across the globe.
Here’s the jury’s motivation for Greedy Gull:
“In this fast-paced adventure in rhyme, the reader encounters an original cast of characters: greedy gull, the thief chaffilch, the eagle owl, the pigeon thief, the snackbird and a magpie who move to a tax haven. The text is playful and linguistically clever, and the humour is enhanced by the graphic, colourful and expressive illustrations.”
Maija Hurme’s Where Do All the Days Come From? (Var kommer alla dagar ifrån/ Mistä kaikki päivät tulevat?, 2025 Schildts & Söderströms) follows in the footsteps of her previous picture book, the multi-award-winning Last and Found. The picture book shares the story of a carefree time by the sea with a grandmother together with her grandchildren, Harold and Eve, who wonder, marvel, and ponder everyday things. This philosophical and tender picture book for curious-minded children and adults alike, compiles children’s questions into an insightful and gently humorous work that shares their unique view of the world.
Here’s the jury’s motivation for Where Do All the Days Come From? (Var kommer alla dagar ifrån?, 2025 Schildts & Söderströms):
“The picture book poses philosophical questions to children, both small and big. No fixed answers are given, but the questions can inspire discussion and further questions. The soft and nuanced illustrations tell their own story alongside the text. The book is aimed at young children, but is also suitable for older readers.”
Pawhill Pals(Käpälämäen kaverukset, 2025 Orava-kirjar) is Matti Rönkä’s first children’s book, a mischievous yet reassuring tale of two long eared pals and the the start of a charming new series. Rönkä’s entertaining story sparkles with vivid wordplay, delightful animal and human characters, and quirky mishaps. Combined with Matti Pikkujämsä’s witty illustrations, this heartwarming tale is sure to captivate young readers.
Here’s the jury’s motivation for Pawhill Pals (Käpälämäen kaverukset, 2025 Orava-kirjat):
“The subtle humor and linguistic playfulness in this book do not underestimate young readers or listeners. This heartwarming story about the friendship between a rabbit and a hare and their life alongside humans will also entertain adult readers. The expressive and humorous illustrations make the characters even more relatable.”
The primary purpose of the Runeberg Junior Prize is to promote children’s interest in reading. The annual prize is one of the most prestigious literary awards in Finland, worth 10,000 euros. The winner will be announced on 5 February 2025.
Our warmest congratulations to all nominees.
