New book brings Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales to life in Danish and Bornholmsk dialect

In a unique bilingual publication, a new book features some of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved fairy tales presented in both Danish and the distinct dialect of Bornholm. The left page showcases the text in Bornholmsk, while the right page is written in standard Danish.

Titled “Fæm eventyr å H. C. Andersen,” this book is the brainchild of linguist Alex Speed Kjeldsen, who has previously explored the Bornholm dialect in his works. He aims to make these classic tales more accessible to children by using familiar stories that ease the reading process in the region’s traditional tongue. Among the selected stories are popular titles such as “The Princess and the Pea,” “The Tinderbox,” “What Father Does is Always Right,” “Little Claus and Big Claus,” and “The Ugly Duckling.”

Kjeldsen’s goal extends beyond merely providing a reading resource; he aspires to strengthen the connection that younger generations have with the Bornholm dialect. He notes the niche nature of the book, stating that while it primarily targets audiences from Bornholm, he believes it may also appeal to Andersen enthusiasts, especially due to its rich illustrations. The book features intricate paper cutouts crafted by Bornholm artist Ane Cecilie Mogensen, adding a visual dimension reminiscent of Andersen’s own artistic pursuits.

With its release today, “H.C. Andersen på bornholmsk” invites readers to engage with classic tales in a culturally rich and contemporary format.