Hans Christian Anderson

Hans Christian Anderson was one of the greatest storytellers of our time. He wrote over 150 stories for children that are widely read today. Born on April 2, 1805 in Odense, Denmark, Hans grew up very poor. His father was a shoemaker, and his mother was a washerwoman for rich people in large homes. Many themes of the differences between the poor and wealthy classes are seen throughout his stories. You will also find the occasional shoemaker.

Hans left home at the tender age of 14 to make his fortune. He worked as an artist, a singer, and an actor, but success did not come easy. Hans was even poorer than he had been at home and almost died of hunger. The director of the Royal Theatre took pity on Hans, and gave him the money he needed to continue his education. Hans went to university in the capital city of Copenhagen and began his writing.

Andersen became first known as a poet, and his poetry won him many patrons and paid his way to travel throughout Europe.

His first book of fairy tales was published in 1835. The book was a success, and many other volumes of children’s stories followed, almost one a year, right up until 1872! In his lifetime, he wrote more than one hundred and fifty fairy tales, and his stories have been translated into over 100 languages!

The Hans Christian Andersen Award, one of the highest prizes in children’s literature, was established in hi name.

Hans Christian Andersen was insecure about his looks; he was tall and skinny with a big nose. His stories show compassion for those who are outcast and suffering. They also make fun of the spoiled and conceited. His stories teach how appearances can be deceiving, and about the magical beauty that can live with inside even the most unlikely characters.