Nils Holgersson et son ami l'Aigle Pre-owned book

Nils Holgersson – The Boy Who Flew with the Wild Geese (1906)

First published in 1906 by Swedish author Selma Lagerlöf, The Wonderful Adventures of Nils began as an educational book to teach children about Sweden’s geography. Yet it grew into a timeless fable about growth, empathy, and the beauty of the natural world.

The story follows Nils Holgersson, a mischievous boy who is magically shrunk to a tiny size as punishment for his cruelty toward animals. Riding on the back of a wild goose, he embarks on a journey across Sweden, discovering its landscapes, wildlife, and people — and learning humility, kindness, and respect along the way.

Adapted into a beloved anime series in 1980, the tale enchanted audiences worldwide. Nils Holgersson remains a universal story of transformation and wonder — a poetic reminder that adventure and redemption often begin with a single act of change.