Abstract
The article discusses the reception and impact of Sven Wernström's views and works in Iceland. In particular, it retraces the controversy which surrounded the 1978 translation of his book Kamrat Jesus (1971) and recounts the heated debate over the book which took place both in the press and in the Icelandic parliament. Wernström's prose and critical voice is also considered within the context of the so-called social realist movement in Icelandic literature for children and young adults.
Notes
1 All translations by the author unless otherwise noted.
2 Svava Jakobsdóttir's words might have carried more weight because she was a daughter of one of the most distinguished priests in Reykjavík, Jakob Jónsson.
3 Eldjárn's poetry book Disneyrímur (Disney Rhymes) which also came one in 1978 was influenced by the writings of, among others, Ariel Dorfman, Armand Mattelart and Göran Palm. Disneyrímur became a best-seller.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Olga Holownia
Olga Holownia holds a PhD in English and Icelandic Studies. Her research interests include contemporary poetry, children's literature, nonsense and elves. She is currently involved in a joint-project hosted by the University of Iceland, leading to the publication of a New History of Icelandic Literature for Children. Contact: [email protected]