Found In Translation: 5 Books You Should Read

European novels are becoming famous, aren’t they?! And Nordictrans is not just talking about ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’ we are also talking about many novels that are coming out of Europe these days.

Our Theory: We have looked into their fame, and we have concluded that there is a simple reason for it. Simple, pragmatic and futuristic mindset is the best instigator of crime thrillers. The pragmatism and futurism that Europe and especially Nordic lands can show are unparalleled. They have a clarity of vision and description that is just addictive.

We had a little time on our hands and voila! We came up with the best icelandic translator novels that you just have to try out so that you can curse us for giving you a brand new addiction for life!

1. Tómas Jónsson, by Guðbergur Bergsson (translated by Lytton Smith)

Let’s start with a not much of thriller must read that you have to check out. Tomas Jonsson is an ordinary old man who is writing an autobiography of himself. In order to justify having an autobiography at all, he brings up the fact that he is the descendant of Vikings and share his not so happening story in light of his Viking heritage. It’s awesome!

2. Novel 11, Book 18 by Dag Solstad (translated by Sverre Lyngstad)

This is a pragmatic discussion of an emotional story. A guy leaves his urban life, his wife, and a kid to go live in the rural land. He makes amateur theatre for eighteen years until his soon shows up one day. Its intense, sad and all about how we have to live before we die!

3. The Endless Summer by Madame Nielsen (translated by Gaye Kynoch)

Nordictrans really has ditched the promise of thrillers haven’t we?! Well, the Endless Summer is also thrilling but only the passionate and warm manner of Madame Nielsen. He play discusses fate, melancholy and humor in context of the modern world. It’s beautiful and entitled to be tried.

4. Not Before Sundown by Johanna Sinisalo (translated by Herbert Lomas)

The children and their perspective are inspiring and fresh. This book will take you to an adult who learns to understand the view of children and see the word from the innocent eyes of a child. It’s eye-opening and heartwarming all at the same time. Give it a shot!

5. New Collected Poems by Tomas Tranströmer (translated by Robin Fulton)

More poetry for you folks! We know, not even a single thriller in our list, we are definitely deserving of your judgmental stare. But in fact, Iceland can offer more than coldness and calculation. Tomas is the Poet Laureate of the modern era, and he writes incredibly beautiful poems that express without overindulging. They speak but do not shout.

Nordictrans hopes you enjoyed our list even if there was not one thriller in it. Have ago day!