The Hans Christian Andersen Award is one of the most prestigious international honors in children's literature, awarded biannually to one author and one illustrator. Alongside the nominees for this award, the jury also creates a special "Jury Recommends" list, comprised of books identified as particularly outstanding and significant for international literature. For 2026, this list includes 21 works from various countries, showcasing diverse narratives and styles, among which is the Latvian author's work "Two Souls" by Inese Zandere.

Inese Zandere's short story "Two Souls", published by "Liels un mazs" in 2021, is aimed at preschool and early school-age children. The book closely resembles a picture book, blending rich illustrations with text in a way that also appeals to adult readers. The story revolves around a young girl named Alma, who navigates a world where the boundaries between reality and imagination are blurred. During a summer in the countryside, not far from a small cemetery, Alma accidentally overhears words about another Alma, who has died, leading her to reflect on themes of life and loss.

Zandere’s inclusion in the Hans Christian Andersen Jury’s recommended list underscores the significance of her work in the realm of children's literature, and emphasizes the global recognition of Latvian authors in this field. This distinction not only shines a spotlight on Zandere’s storytelling but also on the creative potential present in Latvia’s literary landscape, encouraging further exploration and appreciation of children's literature from the region among international audiences.