Anna Maria Geertruida Schmidt, better known as Annie M.G. Schmidt, redefined Dutch literature through her extensive contributions to children's books, theatre, and journalism. Born in Kapelle in 1911, she established herself as a central figure in the cultural history of the Netherlands, eventually becoming one of the rare literary artists included in the official national historical canon.
Early Career and Writing Style
Schmidt began her professional path as a librarian, an environment that influenced her rejection of the moralizing tone prevalent in early twentieth-century children's literature. She transitioned to professional writing in 1947, working for the Amsterdam-based newspaper Het Parool. Her work spanned poetry, columns, radio scripts, and song lyrics, including the text for the first song performed at the Eurovision Song Contest, De vogels van Holland.
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Her most enduring series, Jip and Janneke, emerged from her tenure at Het Parool and ran from 1952 to 1957. Illustrated by Fiep Westendorp, the series captured the daily adventures of two young neighbors. Other significant contributions include the novel Minoes, which follows a cat who transforms into a woman, and the popular television musical comedy series Ja Zuster, Nee Zuster, featuring music by Harry Bannink. Many of her books, including Pluk van de Petteflet, remain staples of Dutch childhood.
Awards and Legacy
Throughout her career, Schmidt received numerous accolades, including the Staatsprijs voor een kinderboek in 1964, the Golden Harp in 1967, and the Edmond Hustinx Prize for playwrights in 1974. She was awarded the Hans Christian Andersen Medal in 1988 for her lasting contributions to children's literature. In 2007, she was formally recognized in the Canon of the Netherlands alongside other national figures.
Death and Cultural Impact
Schmidt died in Amsterdam on 21 May 1995, one day after her 84th birthday. Her decision to end her life via voluntary euthanasia sparked a notable public dialogue regarding the practice within the Netherlands. She is buried at Zorgvlied. Her life and themes have since been adapted into various theatrical productions, and her works remain widely distributed in print.
Fast facts
- Born: 1911, Kapelle
- Died: 1995, Amsterdam
- Citizenship: Kingdom of the Netherlands
- Notable Works: Minoes, Jip and Janneke, Pluk van de Petteflet
- Awards: Hans Christian Andersen Medal (1988), Gouden Griffel (1981)
- Burial Site: Zorgvlied
- Primary Employer: Het Parool
Questions readers ask
What is Annie M.G. Schmidt best known for?
She is best known for her children's book series Jip and Janneke and her extensive work in Dutch theatre and song writing.
Did she write for adults?
Yes, she wrote poetry, songs, plays, musicals, and television drama for adult audiences in addition to her work for children.
Achievements
- Edmond Hustinx Prize for playwrights — 1974
- Notable work: Jip and Janneke
- Notable work: Pluk van de Petteflet
- Notable work: Minoes
