When it comes to famous Danish children’s authors of the 20th century, many people think of Hans Christian Andersen or Ib Spang Olsen or even Erik Christian Haugaard. But not me. I think of Virginia Allen Jensen, author of one of my favorite children's books, Lars-Peter's Birthday. Although my copy of the book is tattered, worn, and scribbled on, it still gives me pleasure every time I read it. And it reminds me that there are many lesser known authors who have contributed much to children's literature.
So who exactly is Virginia Allen Jensen and how did her work influence Danish children’s literature – and children’s books in general? A woman with several hats, Virginia Allen Jensen is someone worth getting to know.
Virginia Allen Jensen – American Roots to Danish Children’s Author
Considering her background, Virginia Allen Jensen could have led a very American life. Born in 1927 in Des Moines, Iowa, the daughter of Byron Gilchrist and Else Allen, she attended American schools, including Bennington College in Vermont and the University of Minnesota. But her 1953 marriage to Danish management consultant Flemming Jakob Jensen and a move to Denmark set her life on a different path.
While living in Denmark, Ms. Jensen discovered that there was no reading material suitable for children learning English. Later, during a visit to Stockholm, she became interested in books for blind children after, once again, learning that there were none. Both experiences resulted in her writing a children’s book.
Published in 1959, Lars-Peter’s Birthday (Abingdon Press) was her first children's book and earned an honorable mention from the Finnish Author’s Union. Lars-Peters Birthday was followed by several other notable children’s books and, in 1977, she published her long-awaited picture book for the blind, What’s That?, which uses texture and shapes to help blind kids read.
But she didn’t stop at writing books to help spread reading for children during the 20th century. She also worked as a translator of Danish children’s books to English, including several written by Danish colleague and acclaimed children’s illustrator Ib Spang Olsen (who, by the way, illustrated Lars-Peter's Birthday). In addition, she founded the International Children’s Book Service in Denmark and served on the International Board on Books for Young People.
Virginia Allen Jensen & the Changing Direction of Children’s Writing
At about the time that Lars-Peter’s Birthday was published, a new direction for children’s writing was emerging. The earlier concept of children as immature and submissive and adults as knowing better was beginning to diminish. Although Ms. Jensen’s early picture books still held characters in traditional roles, her stories showed evidence of a change in perspective and focus.
For example, in Hop-Hans (Gyldendal, 1966), a young girl finds and befriends a toy rabbit, who tells her about the differences between adults and children. Although the rabbit takes on an authoritative role in the story, explaining how children don't have control like adults, the girl openly expresses her feelings and is portrayed as the protagonist – and it is she whom the readers sympathize and connect with.
Similarly, in Lars-Peter’s Birthday, readers are taken on an adventure with Lars-Peter, who imagines himself as various characters, including a Danish pastry delivery man, on his new shiny bicycle. Despite constant reminders by his “Mor” that he is not yet old enough for a bike, Lars-Peter is the focus of the story and characterized as determined, resourceful, and as ready as any adult for a new bike.
Through her children’s books – and possibly with the added benefit of three children of her own – Virginia Allen Jensen shows her insight into a child’s world. Not only have her beloved stories and accurate translations been widely recognized and praised, so have her efforts in bringing reading material to Danish children and children of many other backgrounds, including the blind.
The next time Danish children’s authors of the 20th century come to mind, remember Virginia Allen Jensen. Despite her lesser known status, she has left a prominent mark on children’s writing and literature – and for some of us, books we'll never tire of reading.
Sources:
- Christensen, Nina. “Authority and Subjection in the Traditional Depiction of the Child-Parent Relationship” from Reading Pictures, Art, Narrative and Childhood conference, Homerton College, Cambridge (September 2000).
- Commire, Anne. “Virginia Allen Jensen.” Something About the Author: Facts and Pictures About Contemporary Authors and Illustrators of Books for Young People. Detroit: Gale Research Company, 1976.
- Eyer, Jim. “Virginia Allen Jensen Papers, Biographical Sketch.” University of Minnesota.
- Virginia Allen Jensen biography, booksforkeeps.com/uk.
Susie Yakowicz - Susie Yakowicz is a Minnesota freelance writer whose work has appeared in dozens of publications for children and adults.
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