Gurli Linder

Ane Gurli Linder née Peterson (1865–1947) was a Swedish writer and feminist who was active in Stockholm's social life in the late 19th century when she also encouraged women to become more directly involved in culture. A strong supporter of libraries and reading, she later played an important role in pioneering the promotion and development of children's literature.

Early life and education Born on 1 October 1865 in Tysslinge, Örebro Municipality, Ane Gurli Peterson was the daughter of the landowner Carl Gustaf Peterson and Marie Christine Kavli. In 1879, she moved to Stockholm with her family. Following her father's death when she was 10 years old, she became a full boarder at Hammarstedt School.

Career Initially thanks to her husband's connections, Linder frequented Stockholm's intellectual receptions, salons and clubs including the feminist Ellen Key's Sunday meetings and Calla Curman's literature salons. She continued to contribute to children's book reviews until the 1940s, influencing library acquisitions and the design and presentation of children's books, helping to increase the quality of children's book publishing. After her death, her three daughters kept her home and opened it up as a meeting-place for artists, writers and librarians.