Out of the thousands of letters Tove Jansson wrote a cache remains that she addressed to her family, her dearest confidantes, and her lovers, male and female. Into these she spilled her innermost thoughts, defended her ideals and revealed her heart. To read these letters is both an act of startling intimacy and a rare privilege. Penned with grace and humour, Letters from Tove offers an almost seamless commentary on Tove Jansson's life as it unfolds within Helsinki's bohemian circles and her island home. Spanning fifty years between her art studies and the height of Moomin fame, we share with her the bleakness of war; the hopes for love that were dashed and renewed, and her determined attempts to establish herself as an artist. Vivid, inspiring and shining with integrity, Letters from Tove shows precisely how an aspiring and courageous young artist can evolve into a very great one.
Tove Jansson
Tove Jansson (1914-2001) was a Finnish-Swedish author, artist, and illustrator best known for creating the Moomin series, a collection of whimsical and philosophical children's books that have become beloved worldwide. Her writing style is characterized by its wit, warmth, and deep empathy for her characters. Jansson's contributions to literature include challenging traditional gender roles and exploring complex themes such as friendship, family, and the nature of happiness. Her most famous work, "The Moomins and the Great Flood," introduced readers to the endearing Moomin family and their fantastical adventures, setting the stage for a successful series that continues to captivate readers of all ages. Jansson's impact on the literary genre of children's literature is immeasurable, as her work continues to inspire generations of readers and writers alike.