The values and philosophy book is featured in Estonia's top selection at the Bologna children's book fair

In 2025, Estonia will be the Guest of Honour at the Bologna Children's Book Fair, the world’s oldest and most prestigious event of its kind. This major international gathering brings together thousands of children's book authors, illustrators, literary scholars, publishers, and agents. To mark the occasion, the Estonian Children's Literature Centre has compiled a catalogue showcasing the 25 finest Estonian children's books of all time. Among the selected titles is the book on values and philosophy, “Mis on sulle kallis?” („What do you hold dear?“).

The book explores life’s big questions with children through six engaging stories. The literary short stories for children are written by Tiia Kõnnussaar, while Professor of Practical Ethics Kadri Simm has added philosophical reflections for adult readers. At the end of each story, there are thought-provoking questions to help teachers or parents discuss human relationships and values with young readers. The authors address values such as friendship, respect for life, gender roles, solidarity, diversity, tolerance, and homeland in a simple and accessible way.

“It is truly a great honour to represent Estonian children’s literature alongside wonderful writers from both the older and younger generations of Estonian literature, especially as Estonia was the Guest of Honour at this professional book fair,” said one of the book’s authors, writer and editor-in-chief of the Universitas Tartuensis magazine, Tiia Kõnnussaar.
The book is illustrated by Elina Sildre and was published in 2022 by the Centre for Ethics at the University of Tartu and the University of Tartu Press. It is available in Estonian, Russian, and Ukrainian.

The publication of the book was supported by the British Council under the "People to People Cultural Engagement Programme".