Stories in Two Languages: Why I Write Bilingual Books for Kids
It started with a dictionary and a stubborn dream.
I’ve been learning Swedish and Norwegian for years; off and on since 2012, more seriously since 2020. What began as a fascination with lyrics, culture, and language has grown into something deeper: a desire to build bridges between languages, especially for kids growing up in multicultural, multilingual, or neurodivergent homes.
That’s why I’m writing bilingual children’s books: simple, rhythmic stories written in English and Norwegian, with plans to expand into other languages in the future.
I want kids to see words side by side. I want parents learning alongside their children. I want these books to feel inclusive, curious, and real.
These are not just stories. They're tools for connection; across generations, across cultures, and across neurodivergent brains like mine.
My first series is called Mina, starring a curious little praying mantis who explores emotions, movement, and everyday moments with wonder, humor, and a whole lot of questions. Through her tiny mantis lens, Mina helps kids navigate the world around them; all while learning Norwegian language and culture. Whether she’s trying to sit still (but not really), run without tripping, or understand why shrimp have their own holiday (looking at you, ShrimpFest 🦐), Mina’s adventures reflect the real rhythms of childhood in a playful, bilingual way. She’ll even be celebrating Syttende Mai (May 17) in her own buggy style.
The second series is a modern, inclusive take on the classic Dick and Jane books, updated with diverse characters, gender balance, and real verbs that reflect how kids actually live, move, and learn today; across languages and cultures. Both series are written in English and Norwegian, side by side, to help kids (and grown-ups) learn together.
Both series are designed for:
Bilingual families
Early learners (ages 2–5)
Language nerds
Parents learning a second language alongside their kids
Anyone who’s ever felt like they had to pick just one language, culture, or identity
These books are written with short sentences, clean layout, and mirrored translations, so kids (and grown-ups) can compare side by side. They’re not perfect translations; because language isn’t perfect. It’s alive. And these stories are too.
Coming Soon:
Mina Løper / Mina Runs
Sit / Sitt
Play Day / Lekedag
Laila Lytter / Laila Listens
Want to support these books before they launch?
💛 Donate on GoFundMe
🧡 Contribute via PayPal
💬 Message MeLet’s build a bookshelf where every kid and every language belongs.
Want to help translate or collaborate in other languages (Sámi? Finnish? Spanish?)
Drop me a message; I'd love to connect!
