HUSBAND-AND-WIFE TEAM Inger and Lasse Sandberg are arguably the most successful Swedish authors and illustrators of children's picture books during the post-war era, jointly producing more than 100 titles, some of which having been translated into 33 languages. Among their most classic creations is Laban the Little Ghost, not only the main character in a number of books loved by generations of children but also the hero of animated TV episodes and feature films.

© Tre Sandberg AB

Laban wants to be just like his big scary Spook Dad. But one of his problems is that he is terrified of the dark in Royal Palace Good morning Sun. What's worse is that he is kind and helpful. On the other hand, Laban's sister Labolina is tough and likes to play practical jokes. She has the loudest voice in the world and can imitate any sound you care to mention. The Prince in the royal palace is Laban's best friend, and together they sneak around and explore the palace. The Prince also has a sister, Princess Fun, who is Labolina's friend. Laban's family also includes Spook Mum, Spook Dad and Rufus the Dog.

The first Laban book Lilla spoket Laban (1965) uses a monochrome color scale with different shades of yellow and brown connotating bygone days, and detailed settings and close observations of everyday objects give an air of authenticity to the ghost world. While helping children to cope with fear by adding an element of fun and friendliness, the book was also an early attempt in children's literature to call traditional gender roles into question. Fifteen Laban picture book titles followed until 2005.

During recent years, Laban the Little Ghost has also become the hero of animated theatrical films, the fourth title opening in the fall of 2009. Each consisting of six animated segments, the Laban films have become very successful also abroad – not least in France where Laban, le petit fantôme drew 45.000 visitors only in the first month! The segments are also available as an animated TV series of 24 x 7-minute episodes. Illustrations, drawings, and backgrounds have been created by PennFilm - a group of animators and illustrators led by the legendary animator Per Ahlin.

Inger and Lasse Sandberg's first book together was Ullrik the sheep receives a medal and the couple have themselves received numerous awards throughout the years - the Heffaklump in 1969, the Nils Holgersson plaquette in 1973, the Astrid Lindgren Award in 1974 and the royal medal Litteris et Artibus, awarded for outstanding service to the arts, in 2006. They have also both been members of the Swedish Academy for Children's Books.

Laban & Labolina is also a concept for safe children’s clothes, books and interior. The current merchandising program for Laban the Little Ghost includes Novali, Klippan, Sia Glass, Ratt Start, Raben & Sjogren, Micki Leksaker and Egmont Karnan. Nordic Show Productions and Ruuds Productions conducts Laban character appearances and theatrical events.