Best of the Modern Nordic Literature

With the Nordic literature's icy wave washing up on the shores of the United Kingdom, and esteemed authors from Denmark, Sweden, Greenland, Finland, Norway, and Iceland scheduled to appear at the Southbank Centre in London this month for readings and talks, I am thrilled to present ten books that will prepare you for this exhilarating experience. In addition to these fantastic literary offerings, readers can also explore the world of Nordic literature through engaging discussions and book clubs, both online and offline. Platforms like omegle chat provide a space for readers to connect with fellow enthusiasts, exchange recommendations, and delve deeper into the themes and nuances of Nordic literature.

Recommended Scandinavian Books: Memoirs, Existentialism, Passion, Monsters, and Noir

Tómas Jónsson: A Retired Bank Clerk's Memoir

One of the recommended books is the bestseller, "Tómas Jónsson," authored by Gubergur Bergsson. The novel portrays a retired bank clerk, Tómas Jónsson, confined to his basement apartment, who decides to write his own memoir, filled with egocentric rants, witty subversions, and morbid content, with the aim of writing the wrongs of contemporary Icelandic society.

Novel 11, Book 18": An Uncompromising Existentialist Tale

Another recommended read is "Novel 11, Book 18" by Dag Solstad, translated by Sverre Lyngstad. The book takes the concept of man controlling his own fate to an extreme level, showcasing the treasurer of the city council, Bjrn Hansen, who leaves behind everything to follow his mistress. It is an existentialist story that refuses to make any concessions.

Passionate Love in "Endless Summer

"Endless Summer" by Madame Nielsen, translated by Gaye Kynoch, is a passionate love story about a Danish woman and a young Portuguese artist that explores themes of time, sexuality, and tragedy. Emotional and visceral, the novel wanders through time and space, portraying the lives, loves, and dissolutions of everyone who surrounds the couple.

Monstrous Consequences: Not Before Sundown

Johanna Sinisalo's "Not Before Sundown," translated by Herbert Loma, tells the story of a young photographer named Mikhael who discovers a monstrous creature in his apartment courtyard. This creature is a hybrid of a man and a Scandinavian troll that Mikhael takes in, leading to catastrophic consequences.

Welcome to America": a poignant family drama

Linda Boström Knausgard's "Welcome to America" portrays a sensitive child named Ellen, who may never speak again after the events of the novel. The story highlights the family's coping mechanisms and the individual growth of each member while still yearning for connection with each other.

Exploring Nordic Noir: "Scandinavian Noir" by Wendy Less

Lastly, Wendy Less's book, "Scandinavian Noir: In Pursuit of a Mystery," is an excellent anthology that dives into the Nordic noir genre and its evolution. It explores the darkness, complexities, and intrigue that characterize this genre and will leave readers captivated.

Conclusion

The Nordic literature wave has reached the shores of the United Kingdom, and with esteemed authors from Denmark, Sweden, Greenland, Finland, Norway, and Iceland set to appear at the Southbank Centre in London, it's an exciting time to explore Nordic literature. With themes of existentialism, passion, tragedy, and family drama, these books are sure to captivate readers and challenge conventional narratives. Get ready to be swept away by the icy wave of Nordic literature.