Karlson on the Roof. Astrid Lindgren

There seems to be an overwhelming sense of regret common to all the reviewers -- a great book, too bad one can't get it for love or money (...)Like many of those who wrote a review here, I too read it in Russian translation. Like another reviewer, I've been looking for it for over 10 years for my own, thoroughly American, kids. The Pippi boos are very good, as well as are other Lindgren's book, too but this one is special. Lindgren's ability to see the world through the eyes of a child and to tell the story in a way that is respectful to the child's view of the world is on fine display. Not a single false note, no artificial cuteness; all 3 Karlson books are honest with their readers and the readers love them in return.Too bad these books are so hopelessly out of print... Both the kids and the parents of this country are missing on a real opportunity to share a good book, and what better way to build strong family ties than to read a GOOD book together with your child.

This book is about a 7-year old boy and his unusual friend, Karlsson, who has a little cozy house, which is strangely located...on the roof. At first, noone believes the little boy. Everyone thinks that the boy is lonely and bored, and that he made himself an imagenary friend. However, how much his mom, dad, brother and sister are surprised when they find out that this little man really exists...I read this book when I was 7 years old in Russia, and this book has stayed as one of the greatest memories from my childhood. It is great that Astrid Lindgren's books are translated into English. I only wish that American kids will get a chance to read/listen to these books. I have a copy of it, which I've read to my little son several times, and he loves it. So, if you ever come across a copy of this book, please, read it. Once you start, you wouldn't be able to stop.And, yes, it is as good as or maybe even better than Harry Potter.

I never wrote review for any books or anything on-line before. But when I couldn't buy a copy of Karlson on the Roof anywhere in the US, except from the zshop, I felt the urge to tell everyone what a wonderfull book it is. I read Karlsson On the Roof in China when I was a kid. I was my favorate for many years. Once when I was in college I recommanded my friends to read it but couldn't find it any where in my room. I was so dissappointed that I turned my room up-side-down several times for this. In my opinion, Karlsson On the Roof is nothing less than Harry Potter. It is about a common, lonely kid with an exordinary friend, Karlsson, who is generous, humourous, smart, and who can fly with a small propeller on his back. Karlsson alway thought himself as adult, just like kids do, and yet don't quite like adaults. Their fight with two thieves, without help from adults of course, was hilarious. Now that I have not read it for ten years and I miss it so much. I tried very hard to find its english name, the copy I read was named "little flying man" while translated into Chinese and I did not remember the auther, only to find out that all I can buy here is used ones dated 1971. It is such a pity that so many people here have missed such a great book. I hope that when my children reach 8 or 9 years old, I can share this book with them.

If there is one book your child consented to read, make it this one. Imagination and kindness that will not bore your child to death either. That's a shame that you probably will not be able to find this book for a price lower than $50. I know, I tried. This book is the example of the weakness that the US publishing system seems to have. It doesn't pay too much attention to what other countries consider to be undying classic. The other clear example is Jules Verne masterpiece "Captain Grant's children." I'm not sure it was ever even translated to English, despite the fact that there was an American movie made based on this book. What a shame. I hope at some point there will be a change for the better.

I just pity american children who do not know this wonderful friend of my childhood - Karlsson-on-the-Roof!.. I am 30 now,but when I am tired and blue,I take this book and Karlsson is there to lit up my mood!..