According to sources, the KAOS prize is being established to mark the 75th anniversary of author Pär Lagerkvist, who was born in Växjö, being awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature. The name KAOS is taken from one of Pär Lagerkvist's early works and reflects the ambition to highlight literature that explores life's fundamental questions. The prize amounts to 100,000 kronor and will be awarded every other year starting in 2026.
A jury consisting of critics, researchers, and librarians will select the winner, though the specific criteria they will use has not been detailed. Children and young people will be involved in the process to contribute their perspectives, but how exactly they will be involved remains unclear. According to Växjö Municipality, the goal is to give greater attention to the importance of children's and youth literature for language development and young people's well-being.
With KAOS, we are taking a clear step to highlight children's and youth literature. It is a form of literature that both touches and shapes, and that deserves greater attention.
Martina Forsberg, Chair of the Culture and Leisure Committee (S), stated, "With KAOS, we are taking a clear step to highlight children's and youth literature. " The first KAOS prize is planned to be awarded in connection with the Kronoberg Book Fair in November 2026.