Pippi Longstocking Hugs Her Horse coloring page

About this coloring page

Pippi Longstocking and horse are one of the most beloved duos in children’s books. The character came from Swedish author Astrid Lindgren, who began telling Pippi stories to her daughter Karin when the girl was sick in bed. Karin was the one who made up the name.

The first book came out in Sweden in 1945 and was a sensation. Pippi was unlike the well-behaved heroines of the time. She lived on her own, skipped school, made her own rules and was the strongest girl in the world. Some grown-ups were shocked, but kids loved her right away.

The books were translated into dozens of languages, reaching young readers around the globe. In English she became Pippi Longstocking, a name inspired by her long, mismatched stockings. In the original Swedish she is Pippi Långstrump, and her full name is a delightfully long string of made-up words.

Lindgren went on to write many other favorites, including the Emil books and Ronia, the Robber’s Daughter, and became one of the most widely read children’s authors ever. Her stories celebrate imagination, independence and respect for kids, and Pippi remains her most famous creation.

• pippi longstocking
• horse
• astrid lindgren
• childrens books
• characters