How to get hold of Swedish Children's books Abroad
One of the best ways to improve your children’s Swedish vocabulary is to read a lot, and read often. But I know it can be hard to get hold of Swedish children’s books abroad, which is why my suitcase is always overfull on the way back from any trip to Sweden! Here are some of my best tips for getting hold of fun Swedish children's books for your kids.
How to get hold of Swedish children's books abroad
These days some of the Swedish online bookshops like Bokus deliver overseas, (you can see which countries they currently deliver to here) although, of course, the postage can get a little expensive. There is also Adlibris and Biblio.
A cheaper solution might be to ask friends and family in Sweden to keep an eye out for second-hand books, or books on sale that they can bring over next time they come and visit - perfect presents for the little ones instead of more toys.
My mum loves going to flea markets and second-hand shops and always find great books and Kalle Anka and Bamse magazines for my little boy.
Don’t forget about the Library
It’s also possible to get hold of Swedish e-books and audio books if you have a Swedish library card. Some libraries, like Malmö and Stockholm allow you to set up an account online even if you don't live in the country, although I think you might need to email their customer services to get it set up. I recently had my own library account set up in the town where my parents live, and then I can access the library’s children’s books digitally using the Biblio app.
Facebook groups
Many parents in the Facebook groups set up for Swedish parents abroad share and sell their children's books cheaply - it might be worth a try to post a question in the group to find out if anyone is looking to get rid of old books. You can also look for Swedish museums, cafes and shops abroad that occasionally sell children's books.
Everyone loves Bamse & Magazines
Remember Bamse? This popular children's magazine about the world’s strongest bear now comes in a toddler-friendly version with shorter and easier stories - it's called Bamse för de yngsta, and they deliver abroad for both age groups.
Another magazine type resource that’s fun is Minibladet - with news for the younger audience in Swedish. Another old favourite is Kamratposten - and they deliver their magazine abroad, too. You just need to email their customer services to get it set up.
Audio Books
There are lots of audio books available on Spotify and Google Music. My little boy has loved listening to Bamse stories, Spöket Laban, Pettson och Findus, Mamma Mu and several more. There are plenty of really good radio shows-poddar available from Sveriges Radio -Swedish Radio.
Buy Swedish Children’s Books Online
There are also some fun, classic Swedish children's books available to buy from Amazon and I’ve listed some of my favourites in this blogpost. They do, of course, include my own bilingual children’s books in Swedish and English that are also available to buy in all good online bookstores worldwide.
I hope you found this helpful. I'll be back soon with some more tips on how to keep the Swedish language interesting for your kids.
Ha det gott!
Linda
