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Children Quote by Astrid Lindgren

“The children came to a perfume shop. In the show window was a large jar of freckle salve, and beside the jar was a sign, which read: DO YOU SUFFER FROM FRECKLES? 'What does the sign say?' ask Pippi. She couldn’t read very well because she didn’t want to go to school as other children did. 'It…” quote by Astrid Lindgren
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““The children came to a perfume shop. In the show window was a large jar of freckle salve, and beside the jar was a sign, which read: DO YOU SUFFER FROM FRECKLES? 'What does the sign say?' ask Pippi. She couldn’t read very well because she didn’t want to go to school as other children did. 'It says, "Do you suffer from freckles?"' said Annika. 'Does it indeed?' said Pippi thoughtfully. 'Well, a civil question deserves a civil answer. Let’s go in.' She opened the door and entered the shop, closely followed by Tommy and Annika. An elderly lady stood back of the counter. Pippi went right up to her. 'No!' she said decidedly. 'What is it you want?' asked the lady. 'No,' said Pippi once more. 'I don’t understand what you mean,' said the lady. 'No, I don’t suffer from freckles,' said Pippi. Then the lady understood, but she took one look at Pippi and burst out, 'But, my dear child, your whole face is covered with freckles!' 'I know it,' said Pippi, 'but I don’t suffer from them. I love them. Good morning.' She turned to leave, but when she got to the door she looked back and cried, 'But if you should happen to get in any salve that gives people more freckles, then you can send me seven or eight jars.””

Astrid Lindgren

About This Quote

Source Book: Pippi Longstocking, 1945

Pippi refuses to view her freckles as a problem, insisting she loves them despite societal pressure to treat them as a flaw.

In simple terms: Pippi loves her freckles and rejects the idea that they are a problem.

Key Takeaway

Embrace what makes you unique.

Themes

identity self‑acceptance societal expectations

Mood

defiant hopeful confident

Type

narrative inspirational character‑driven

When to use this quote

  • children's literature
  • character development
  • personal confidence
  • standing up to norms

Key Concepts

body image self‑love conformity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you accept all parts of yourself?
  • How do you respond when others label something as a flaw?
A Different Perspective

Some may still feel pressured to change their appearance despite self‑acceptance.

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