I am a librarian and a Norwegian national. Thus, when I meet American readers, they mainly think of Jo Nesbo’s Nordic noir books about Harry Hole, or the historic epic Kristin Lavransdatter by Sigrid Undset. These are not the only Norwegian authors in translation however, and in honor of Women in Translation Month, I would … Continue reading Norwegian women in translation
Just as spring arrives in the northern hemisphere, we turn our attention to a region that values limited supplies of sunshine. Here are three novels by three women—two from Norway, one from Iceland—that radiate with a dark energy more reminiscent of the northern lights than the sun’s warm glow. Love by Hanne Ørstavik (Archipelago; translated … Continue reading Three Novels by Nordic Women for the Last Dark Nights of Winter
One night, after the first snowfall of the year, a boy named Jonas wakes up and discovers that his mother has disappeared. Only one trace of her remains: a pink scarf, his Christmas gift to her, now worn by the snowman that inexplicably appeared in their yard earlier that day. Inspector Harry Hole suspects a … Continue reading Title Pick: The Snowman by Jo Nesbø
Friendship, fear, loneliness — these are things that are universally experienced but difficult to describe. In this arresting poetry collection, Synne Lea explores these concepts and more through the thoughts and experiences of a family. As the family members examine their connections with each other and the world around them, they gain a deeper appreciation … Continue reading USBBY Outstanding International Book Pick: Night Guard by Synne Lea
From award-winning Norwegian author Arne Svingen comes “an unusually exciting and funny story” (Dagbladet) about a relentlessly positive teenager who uses his love of opera to cope with his less-than-perfect home life. Bart is an eternal optimist. At thirteen years old, he’s had a hard life. But Bart knows that things won’t get any better … Continue reading USBBY Outstanding International Book Pick: The Ballad of the Broken Nose by Arne Svingen
