Literary Landmark honors children's book author Sigrún Eldjárn
A special Literary Landmark honoring children's book author Sigrún Eldjárn debuted today during a ceremony at Lækjargata 14.
Designed as a custom manhole cover set into the sidewalk, the landmark reflects Sigrún's work and its profound connection to both the urban environment and the imaginative world of a child. This honor highlights her vital contribution to Icelandic children's literature, celebrating Sigrún's work that has shaped the nation's cultural life for decades.
A large crowd gathered for the dedication of the Literary Landmark at Lækjargata 14, where city councilor Líf Magneudóttir officially unveiled the manhole cover. The design features a cast reproduction of the illustration from the cover of Sigrún's book "Allt í plati!" Published in 1980, "Allt í plati!" was Sigrún's first children's book, which she both wrote and illustrated.
The story follows Halla and Eyvindur as they embark on an adventure through Reykjavík, exploring the city both above and below ground. Along the way, they encounter the mysterious "krókófílar," turf houses in Breiðholt, and Loftur, the elevator attendant at Hallgrímskirkja.
Sigrún Eldjárn has built a distinctive reputation as both an author and a visual artist, creating work that has left a lasting impact on generations of readers. Her books seamlessly weave together storytelling, fine arts, and a playful spirit, nurturing a child's love of reading and opening the door to the literary world.
The project seeks to integrate Reykjavík's literary heritage into the urban landscape, establishing a new stopping point that encourages discovery and sparks conversation about literature.