Sophia Jansson on the Island World Behind 'The Summer Book' and Its New Film
Sophia Jansson, the niece of Tove Jansson, the creator of the Moomins, shares her thoughts on the Finnish archipelago island that served as the backdrop for her aunt's cherished novel, 'The Summer Book', which has now been brought to life in a film featuring Glenn Close. Inspired by Sophia, who embodies the book's six-year-old main character, Tove drew from her own childhood experiences, Sophia's, and her imagination while writing during a period of mourning for her mother, Ham. Directed by American Charlie McDowell, the film was filmed on an island in the Gulf of Finland, authentically reflecting the island's essence. Sophia, now a grandmother, visits with her grandchildren, feeling a sense of continuity. The film concludes with Super 8 footage of Tove captured by her partner, Tuulikki Pietilä, highlighting her playful spirit. The Summer Book will be released in UK cinemas on 7 August.
Key facts
- Sophia Jansson is the niece of Tove Jansson and the inspiration for the six-year-old girl in 'The Summer Book'.
- The Summer Book has been adapted into a film starring Glenn Close, Anders Danielsen Lie, and Emily Matthews.
- The film is directed by American Charlie McDowell, whose daughter is named Tove.
- The film was shot on an island in the Gulf of Finland.
- The Summer Book was published in 1972.
- Tove Jansson wrote the book while mourning the death of her mother, Ham.
- Sophia Jansson is a writer herself, with a memoir being translated into English.
- The film is out in UK cinemas from 7 August.
Entities
Artists
- Sophia Jansson
- Tove Jansson
- Glenn Close
- Anders Danielsen Lie
- Emily Matthews
- Charlie McDowell
- Tuulikki Pietilä
Locations
- Finland
- Finnish archipelago
- Gulf of Finland