Finland has a rich literary tradition and a vibrant contemporary literary scene. Here are the top 10 books to read in Finland:
- “The Year of the Hare” by Arto Paasilinna – This novel tells the story of a journalist who embarks on a journey through the Finnish countryside after quitting his job.
- “The Lone Traveller” by F.E. Sillanpää – This novel is set in rural Finland and explores the relationship between a young boy and his grandfather.
- “The Wild Dogs” by Kjell Westö – This novel is a dark and thought-provoking story about a man who returns to his childhood home in Helsinki and uncovers the truth about his family’s past.
- “Knut Hamsun” by Knut Hamsun – This classic novel is considered a masterpiece of modern literature and explores the psychological and philosophical struggles of an individual living in poverty.
- “The Witch and the Falcon” by Anja Kauranen – This novel is a tale of magic, mystery, and adventure set in the Finnish countryside.
- “The Essential Finland” by Tim Bird – This comprehensive guidebook covers the history, culture, and geography of Finland and provides valuable insights into the country’s unique character and way of life.
- “The Heart of the Bear” by Kjell Westö – This novel is a heartwarming story about a young girl who travels to the Arctic to reconnect with her roots and learns about the importance of family and community.
- “The Finnish Way” by Katja Pantzar – This book provides a unique perspective on Finnish culture and explores the values, beliefs, and customs that make Finland such a special place.
- “Finnish Fairy Tales and Stories” by Aleksis Kivi – This collection of classic Finnish folktales is a must-read for anyone interested in Finnish mythology and folklore.
- “The Midnight Sun” by Willem de Kooning – This novel is a beautiful and thought-provoking story about a young man who embarks on a journey through the Finnish countryside to reconnect with his family and his roots.
These books offer a diverse and thought-provoking look at the literary tradition of Finland and the cultural, political, and social issues that have shaped the country.
