Marion Brunet has been named the recipient of the prestigious 2025 Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award, one of the world’s most coveted honours in children’s and young adult literature, per kulturradet.se.
The announcement, made by the Swedish Arts Council, celebrates the French author’s evocative storytelling that blends contemporary social issues with the enduring resonance of myth and folklore.
Brunet, born in 1976 and based in Marseille, burst onto the literary scene with her debut novel Frangine (Sister) in 2013. The book, which tackles homophobia through the lens of a family with two mothers, set the tone for her career: unflinching explorations of vulnerability, rebellion and resilience. Her works, often set against the backdrop of modern France, pulse with urgency, addressing climate crises, social inequity and the angst of youth in a fractured world. Yet, her narratives transcend time, weaving in threads of folklore that lend a timeless quality to her prose.
The jury praised Brunet’s “shimmering and crystal-clear” writing, noting her ability to portray “young people in revolt against a corrupt society.” From the dystopian trilogy Ilos, set in a climate-ravaged 2052 Mediterranean, to the claustrophobic tension of Plein gris (Solid Grey), where a sailing trip turns disastrous, Brunet’s stories are as gripping as they are thought-provoking. Her characters—whether diving into flooded ruins or clashing with societal norms—find solace in friendship, solidarity and nature’s beauty, offering hope amid darkness.
“Marion Brunet’s books are a fiercely pulsating present,” the jury stated. “The dark and violent parts of our world are explored in her timely narratives, made timeless by their links to myth and folklore.”
Her versatility shines across genres, from thrillers like La gueule du loup (The Wolf’s Mouth) to the raw idealism of Dans le désordre (In Disarray), where seven youths band together against a materialistic society.
Before turning to writing, Brunet worked as a special needs educator, an experience that likely informs her empathetic portrayals of marginalised voices. Now, her literary achievements will be formally celebrated at a ceremony on June 9 at Stockholm’s Concert Hall. The award, established in 2002 by the Swedish government to honour Astrid Lindgren’s legacy, champions every child’s right to great stories—a mission Brunet embodies with her bold, accessible narratives.
Brunet’s win marks another milestone for French literature on the global stage, spotlighting a voice that resonates with young readers navigating an uncertain world. As the Swedish Arts Council rolls out its celebration of her work, fans can explore her catalog and download a commemorative poster of the 2025 laureate from the award’s website. For Brunet, this accolade is not just recognition—it’s a call to keep telling stories that matter.
•Featured image: Marion Brunet © Samuel Kirszenbaum
