Estonian author Triinu Laan’s children’s book Martin lo scheletro (“Martin the Skeleton”) has been honoured with the 2025 Andersen Prize in Italy, one of the country’s most prestigious awards for children’s literature. The book, originally published in Estonian as Luukere Juhani juhtumised (2020/2024 Päike ja Pilv), was illustrated by Marja-Liisa Plats, translated into Italian by Daniele Monticelli, and published by Sinnos Editrice.
The Andersen Prize, awarded annually by the Italian magazine Andersen, recognizes excellence in children’s publishing. Martin lo scheletro was selected as the best book in the 9–12 years category, highlighting its universal appeal and the successful collaboration between author, illustrator, translator, and publisher.
The story follows Martin, a retired school skeleton, who is adopted by an elderly couple living on a farm. Martin becomes an integral part of the family, engaging with grandchildren and animals alike, offering a tender exploration of intergenerational relationships, life, and companionship.
This recognition adds to the book’s international acclaim. In January 2025, the English translation, John the Skeleton, published by Restless Books and translated by Adam Cullen, won the Mildred L. Batchelder Award in the United States, marking the first time an Estonian children’s book received this honour.
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