Loukko by 
Author Annukka Salama has received the First Class Gold Medal of Merit from the city of Tampere. The award was presented at the Tampere Day celebration at City Hall on 1st of October 2026, as the city marked its 247th anniversary.
Salama was honoured for her achievements, particularly as a pioneer in children’s literature. A Tampere-based author, she has published several acclaimed works, including her debut novel Käärmeenlumooja, which was nominated for the Topelius Prize in 2013. In her work, Salama has explored a wide range of themes relating to young people’s identity, human relationships and social issues.
The awards are presented annually on Tampere Day, and was first established in 1959.
Huge congratulations to Annukka Salama! Salama’s YA title The Melting Point has been sold to 7 languages and counting.
