Erik Christian Haugaard

Erik Christian Haugaard (1923-2009) was a Danish-American children's author and translator known for his historical fiction and retellings of classic tales. His work frequently explored themes of war, survival, and young people facing moral challenges in difficult circumstances. Haugaard gained recognition for his 1967 novel "The Little Fishes," which won the Jane Addams Children's Book Award and chronicled the experiences of children in Naples during World War II. He went on to write numerous other acclaimed works including "The Untold Tale" and "A Boy's Will," establishing himself as a significant voice in children's historical fiction. Many of Haugaard's books drew from his own experiences growing up in Denmark and his extensive travels throughout Europe and Asia. His translations of Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tales are considered among the most faithful and nuanced English versions available, earning him additional praise from literary scholars. His writing style was characterized by careful historical research and a refusal to simplify complex moral issues for young readers. Haugaard's body of work spans over 20 books, including both original novels and translations, many of which remain in print and continue to be used in schools.

Readers consistently highlight Haugaard's ability to portray historical events through children's perspectives without sugarcoating difficult topics. His books maintain 4+ star averages on Goodreads across titles. What readers liked: - Detailed historical accuracy and research - Complex moral situations that respect young readers' intelligence - Clear, straightforward writing style - Character development, especially in "The Little Fishes" - His Hans Christian Andersen translations capture the original tone What readers disliked: - Some found the pacing slow, especially in opening chapters - War-related content too intense for sensitive readers - Limited character descriptions left some wanting more visual detail Ratings breakdown: Goodreads: "The Little Fishes" (4.1/5 from 89 ratings) "Chase Me, Catch Nobody" (4.2/5 from 43 ratings) Amazon: Hans Christian Andersen translations average 4.5/5 One teacher noted: "His books teach history through human stories rather than dry facts." A parent cautioned: "Preview before giving to younger kids - war scenes are realistic."

The Samurai's Tale (1984) A historical novel set in 16th century Japan following an orphaned boy who rises from servant to samurai during a time of civil war.

The Little Fishes (1967) A story about children struggling to survive in Naples, Italy during World War II's aftermath.

A Boy's Will (1980) Chronicles the experiences of a Danish boy during the Nazi occupation of Denmark in World War II.

The Untold Tale (1971) Follows a young boy's journey through medieval Denmark as he seeks revenge for his father's murder.

Chase Me, Catch Nobody (1976) A tale of two boys fleeing across Denmark during World War II to escape the German occupation.

The Girl and the Gold Watch (1972) Set in occupied Copenhagen, depicts a girl who discovers a resistance fighter hiding in her family's basement.

Hakon of Rogen's Saga (1963) A Viking-era story about a young Norwegian chieftain defending his land against rival clans.

A Slave's Tale (1965) Depicts life in medieval Denmark through the eyes of a young slave girl seeking freedom.

The Boys from St. Petri (1991) Based on true events about a group of Danish boys who formed a resistance group during World War II.

Lois Lowry writes historical fiction focused on young people confronting moral dilemmas during wartime, particularly in Number the Stars and The Giver series. Her work shares Haugaard's commitment to addressing complex ethical questions without oversimplification.

Katherine Paterson explores themes of survival and resilience in historical settings through books like Bridge to Terabithia and Of Nightingales That Weep. Her protagonists face harsh circumstances while maintaining their humanity, similar to characters in Haugaard's work.

Avi creates historical fiction centered on young characters navigating political and social upheaval in works such as The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle and Crispin: The Cross of Lead. His research-based approach to historical detail mirrors Haugaard's methodology.

Joan Aiken writes historical fiction with elements of fantasy, focusing on children who must survive in challenging circumstances in works like The Wolves of Willoughby Chase series. Her European settings and exploration of wartime themes parallel Haugaard's interests.

Karen Cushman focuses on meticulously researched historical fiction featuring young protagonists who must overcome difficult circumstances, as seen in Catherine, Called Birdy and The Midwife's Apprentice. Her work demonstrates the same attention to historical accuracy and moral complexity found in Haugaard's books.