Estrid Ott (1900–1967)

Long-legged Gerd is doing research in the field just like her author father, because she wants to write a book of her own. Only she doesn't need to travel abroad, she can just go out her front door and suddenly she's part of a completely different world - a world governed by the kids who rule the streets of Copenhagen.

Gerd is a reckless girl whose aunt has troubles controlling her while her parents are abroad; but she's healthy, natural and has a strong moral code. Her reflections on life and people in general are wonderfully un-snobbish and droll when coming from her matter-of-fact outlook on life.

I first read "Gerd og gadedrengene" when I was in my pre-teens, and it's still one of my favourite books. Estrid Ott is an amazing Danish author, and her books are always filled with charming and amusing anecdotes from her personal life. This is my favourite book by her and although it's a children's book I still read it every or every second year. It's a quick read and one that never fails to put me in a good mood. I absolutely adore it.… (mehr)

16-year-old Tonni gets permission to tour the country together with her mother, the famous singer Mrs. Mønster. Her curiosity and zest for life causes her to get involved in all sorts of adventure and meet new friends whereever she goes. Among these are a group of travelling actors, whom she ends up playing a number of pranks on, and the young Otto Birk, who ends up her good friend and knight in shining armour.

A childhood favourite of mine. I know it practically by heart, yet I still get the urge to read it from time to time. It's quickly read (I think it took me an hour - perhaps an hour and a half), but it's time well spent. Tonni is absolutely delightful, and though somewhat unrealistic, it's a captivating plot, and a cosy way to spend an evening.… (mehr)