Maria Gripe July 25, 1923

Maria Gripe, born Maria Walter, a Swedish author of books for children and young people, often written in a magical and mystical tone.  Her books have won many awards, including the Hans Christian Andersen Medal in 1974, and have been translated into about 30 languages.  Maria Gripe died in her home after a period of illness on 5 April 2007, reports Svenska Dagbladet.