Blod, skratt och tårar. Skildringen av diabetes typ 1 i två svenska barnböcker

Abstract

This thesis examines the depiction of characters with type 1 diabetes in Helena Eriksson’s "Sweet dreams, Elina" and Pernilla Gesén’s "Alvas kompis blir sjuk", two Swedish chapter books for children between the ages of 6 and 9. "Sweet dreams, Elina" is told from the perspective of Elina, who is diagnosed with diabetes, and "Alvas kompis blir sjuk" is told from the perspective of Alva, whose friend Hilda is diagnosed with diabetes. The thesis aims to analyse the portrayal of the illness experience, using a comparative method. With the help of Howard Brody’s definition of illness, as well as his term self respect, the social dimensions of diabetes are examined. Arthur Frank’s illness narratives highlight the results.

The characters in "Alvas kompis blir sjuk" describe diabetes in terms of health and normality. Hilda resists this view of illness. Elina’s bodily experience shapes the whole narrative of "Sweet dreams, Elina". A clear sign is the portrayal of silence. Hilda’s internal feelings are not depicted. She can, however, control both her illness and her narrative about it. Elina meets other characters with diabetes, but Hilda does not. This leads Elina to express more acceptance of her illness than Hilda does. Elina’s self respect is mainly challenged by her own doubt. Hilda’s challenges are created by her social relationships. Both characters use humour in vulnerable situations. Therefore, complex emotions are portrayed as opportunities to connect, rather than as signs of tragedy.