Tomorrow, Findus, there will be something
German, Sven Nordqvist, 1995
My children love "Tomorrow Findus, there'll be something"
9/12/2024
Translation: machine translated
Sven Nordqvist's Christmas tale enchants my two little boys every year.
It's clear that the Pettersson and Findus books are a must-have in every child's bedroom. If you disagree, you don't necessarily have to read on. But if you're also a fan of Pettersson and Findus or don't know them yet: I would like to sing, or rather write, a little hymn of praise for the book "Morgen Findus, wird's was geben". We always read this book as soon as mum has finished putting up the annoying Christmas decorations, because then we can start looking forward to Father Christmas.
Pettersson and Findus are the two main characters in Sven Nordqvist's children's books: Pettersson is an old man who lives in the country and loves to make things. His best friend is the curious tomcat Findus, who is always up to fun adventures.
Findus wants Father Christmas to come
In "Morgen Findus, wird's was geben", Pettersson has manoeuvred himself into a real quandary with a short story about Father Christmas. Because his playful cat is now desperate to see Father Christmas in person. Pettersson doesn't want to tell his companion that Father Christmas doesn't actually exist, but he doesn't want to disappoint him either.
So he sets about building a Father Christmas machine. Easier said than done, but luckily Pettersson is helped in his planning by friendly characters such as the postman, the box seller and the quirky Mucklas. At the end of the story, despite all the adversity, a small miracle happens that saves Pettersson from lying and makes Findus happy.
There are also cute drawings that show Pettersson and Findus' everyday life and help to explain what is happening.
Source: Anne Fischer
I think the story does a good job of conveying to my children that Christmas is not just about the presents, but also about the cosy time together before Christmas Eve, the get-togethers, the mystery and the excitement. My older son (5) in particular asks for it every day, while the little one (3) especially likes to look at the pictures. In contrast to other Christmas books, the story is definitely varied and quirky.
Which book do you like to read with your children in the run-up to Christmas? Let me know in the comments.
Header image: Anne Fischer
A true local journalist with a secret soft spot for German pop music. Mum of two boys, a dog and about 400 toy cars in all shapes and colours. I always enjoy travelling, reading and go to concerts, too.