Hans Christian Andersen

Hans Christian Andersen (1805–1875) was a Danish writer of fairy tales in the nineteenth century, born in Odense to a poor shoemaker's family. In 1835 he published Tales Told for Children, and over his lifetime he wrote 168 fairy tales, including such widely known works as The Little Mermaid, The Ugly Duckling and The Little Match Girl. His tales drew on folk legends and everyday life, written in plain and vivid language with rich imagination; they often combine fantasy with sympathy for the weak and a pursuit of truth, goodness and beauty, suiting children while also offering much for adults to ponder. His works have been translated into more than 80 languages and have had a profound influence around the world. This library holds 16 of his works, including complete collections, selected editions, and English and Japanese versions. Andersen died in Copenhagen on 4 August 1875.