In the Land of Twilight facts for kids

In the Land of Twilight (original Swedish title: I Skymningslandet) is a heartwarming children's book by the famous Swedish author Astrid Lindgren. It tells a magical story about a boy who finds joy and adventure despite a difficult situation. This fantasy tale was first published in 1949.

Story Summary

The book is about a boy named Göran. He has been sick for a year and must stay in bed. One night, Göran overhears his parents talking. He learns that he might never be able to walk again. This news makes Göran feel very sad and hopeless.

But that same evening, something amazing happens. A tiny, friendly man named Mr. Lilyvale visits Göran. Mr. Lilyvale comes from a magical place called the Land of Twilight. He takes Göran on an incredible journey.

In the Land of Twilight, Göran can fly! He eats delicious candy that grows on trees. He even gets to drive a tram. Göran meets the king of this special land. They dance, sing, and have a wonderful time.

After their adventures, Mr. Lilyvale brings Göran back home. Göran is no longer sad about his leg. He knows that every evening, when dusk arrives, Mr. Lilyvale will return. He will take Göran back to the Land of Twilight, where he can fly and be happy.

The Story's Inspiration

Mr. Lilyvale's Origins

The character of Mr. Lilyvale (in Swedish, Herr Liljonkvast) was inspired by Astrid Lindgren's own daughter, Karin. Karin had an imaginary friend named Mr. Lilyvale. He was a small, flying old man. He would visit her in her room in the evenings.

Karin explained that no one else could see Mr. Lilyvale. He would fly away and hide if anyone else came into the room. Astrid Lindgren later said that Mr. Lilyvale was a kind and friendly early version of another famous character she created: Karlsson-on-the-Roof.

Real-Life Settings

The story of In the Land of Twilight takes place in real locations. These places are near Astrid Lindgren's apartment in Stockholm, Sweden. Her apartment was at Dalagatan 46.

The fairy tale begins near the Odenplan metro station. This station is on the north side of Odengatan. From there, Göran and Mr. Lilyvale travel across Stockholm. They see many famous sights. These include the old town and the fun island of Djurgården. They also fly over the Klara quarters and Kronobergsparken. They even visit the Skansen museum. Finally, they see the island of Stadsholmen with the royal castle.

Publication and Recognition

In the Land of Twilight was first published in 1949. It was part of a collection of fairy tales called Nils Karlsson Pyssling. In 1950, Astrid Lindgren received an important award for this book. She was given the Nils Holgersson Plaque.

In 1994, the story was released in Sweden as a picture book. This version had beautiful illustrations. Later, in 2012, this picture book was translated into English.