Ole Lund Kirkegaard, the renowned Danish children's book author, is widely regarded as the most successful in his field. Between 1967 and 1975, he wrote six iconic classics that have since been adapted into films and plays.
His notable works include "Lille Virgil" (Little Virgil),"Albert", "Orla Frøsnapper" (Orla Frog-eater),"Hodja fra Pjort" (Hodja from Pjort),"Otto er et næsehorn" (Otto is a rhinoceros),and "Gummi-Tarzan" (Rubber Tarzan),which perhaps stands out as his most enduring success.
The story of "Gummi-Tarzan" revolves around the misadventures of Ivan Olsen, a small, skinny, weak, and untalented boy who struggles to find his place in the world.
Ole grew up in a loving and liberal household with his parents, Niels, a dentist, and Ellen, who encouraged his creative pursuits. He set up a makeshift circus in their garden, engaging in imaginative play with his friends, and later attended Aarhus Katedralskole, where he met his future wife, Anne Lise.
After high school, Ole went sailing, but his seasickness led him to abandon that career path after a year. He then pursued a degree to become a teacher, during which time he married Anne Lise. After graduating, Ole served as a soldier in the mounted troops, eventually achieving the rank of Lieutenant.
The couple eventually found employment at a small school in Oue, near Hobro, where Ole would read his stories to his pupils and eventually decide to become a full-time author in 1973. He spent his free time traveling the country, giving lectures, and honing his craft.
Unfortunately, Ole struggled with addiction, a battle he ultimately lost. His wife, Anne Lise, divorced him under peaceful conditions three months before his untimely death. Rumors of suicide circulated, but his wife revealed the true circumstances of his passing, which was attributed to hypothermia resulting from his intoxication and subsequent collapse in the snow.
Ole Lund Kirkegaard's legacy continues to endure, with his timeless stories remaining a staple in many Danish children's bookshelves. His premature death was a significant loss for Danish literature, but his works serve as a testament to his remarkable talent as a children's book author.
