Maikki Harjanne is known especially for his Minttu children’s books, which he started making already in the 1970s.
Ilta-Sanomat was the first to report Harjante’s death. According to IS, Harjanne died today, March 3, in Lohja hospital.
Harjante’s close circle and the publishing house confirmed the matter to Yle.
Harjante’s career as a children’s writer stretches back to the 1970s. His books have been read by several generations.
Harjanne is best known for his Minttu books. During his long career, Harjanne had time to write and illustrate well over a hundred works. The latest work *Minttu and kadonneet kirjat* was published a year ago.
Harjante’s books were career-breaking, because everyday life was strongly present in them. They got a mixed reception at first. However, the everyday adventures of Mintu and other characters quickly found readers.
– This is the end of an era. Maikki Harjanne was a trailblazer in children’s literature.
Harjanne thought it was important that children can identify with books and learn to appreciate ordinary Finnish everyday life. Harjanne said in an interview with Yle in 2017 that \”children don’t need to learn to say Bambi or elephant first\”.
– I have tried to tell about Finnish culture and normal life, so that children understand that their life in Finland is a good life. Although we don’t have those bambs, said Harjanne.
Since Harjanne also illustrated his books himself, they often featured familiar furniture, dishes and other objects that children can recognize.
Maikki Harjanne spoke tirelessly for voice reading. He said in an interview with Yle that nothing is easier and more comfortable than curling up in bed together with a child and reading a book aloud.
– The child feels that he is loved. That he is a good person. Now who wouldn’t like to feel important, Harjanne asked.
Harjanne did a lot of work in the field of children’s culture. He visited kindergartens, schools and libraries.
In addition to children’s books, Harjante’s production includes cartoons, poems and short stories.
Maikki Harjante’s own childhood was not easy. He was born in 1944 in Kymenlaakso. His father died in the war. Soon after that, the mother also fell ill.
In 1970, Harjanne graduated as a visual art teacher from the Art Institute.
Maikki Harjanne is remembered as a colorful person. He dressed in bright colors and was also memorable as a person.
During her career, Harjanne also received several awards and recognitions, such as the state award for children’s culture and the Pro Finlandia badge of honor in 2017.
*What kind of memories do you have of Maikki Harjante’s children’s books? You can discuss the topic.*