Swedish author Ann-Helén Laestadius is descended from a long line of reindeer herders, growing up in Kiruna, 145 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle. Her people are the Sámi, the indigenous people of Sweden and the wider region of Sápmi (formerly Lapland).
Known previously as a young adult author, Laestadius’ first book for adults Stolen has been a Swedish bestseller, and Book of the Year. It is now in English translation and being made into a Netflix film.
Stolen is the story of a young Sámi girl’s coming of age. It is informed by painful real-life events: the killing and torturing of reindeer, and the hatred Laestadius has seen as a journalist directed towards her people.
Photo: supplied
