Literature Center
books from Iceland 2018
Icelandic
Icelandic Literature Center promotes Icelandic literature abroad We support the translation of fiction, children’s and young adult books, non-fiction, poetry and graphic novels and serve as a support organization for the export of Icelandic literature. Icelandic Literature Center distributes approx. € 220,000 in translation grants, travel grants and residency grants for over 200 projects every year participates in book fairs abroad organizes events for translators of Icelandic literature and publishers organizes campaigns and efforts in order to promote reading, increase the number of translated titles and support export of Icelandic literature. The Icelandic Literature Center is a government-funded office, founded in 2013.
Translation grants open to foreign publishers to publish works translated from Icelandic Travel grants for Icelandic authors travelling to promote their works – Icelandic authors, foreign publishers or organizations arranging events can apply Nordic translation grants translation from Icelandic into other Nordic languages – open to publishers within the Nordic countries Sample translation grants for publishers, agents, translators & authors Translators residential grants for translators of Icelandic literature Application Deadlines Translation, sample translation & Nordic translation grants – February 15th & September 15th Travel grants – January 15th, May 15th & September 15th Translators residential grants – October 1st
Content 06–11 Fiction 12–15 Children & YA 16–21 Recently sold abroad 22–25 Debutants 26–30 Non-fiction 31–35 Crime Fiction 36–37 Icelandic nominations for the Nordic Council Literature Prize 2018 38–39 Icelandic Literature Prizes 2017
Dear reader
This world map shows almost 50 countries where Icelandic books have been published in a local language. Translators of Icelandic into foreign languages play a vital role in promoting Icelandic literature around the world and can by rights be called Literary Ambassadors.
The constant struggle between joy and sorrow, darkness and light – these are timeless topics, now as before. The issues and subjects that Icelandic writers deal with are infinitely diverse, but it can safely be said that the voices of the younger generation of writers resound stronger than ever on the publishing lists of the past year. The challenges of a sometimes chaotic daily life are a prominent subject, especially for the younger writers. The darker sides of human existence can be sensed at every corner and old secrets seem to reveal themselves, sometimes laboriously, yet love and hope shine brighter than ever before. The art of fiction mirrors the realities of contemporary Iceland in a real and honest way and the comical aspects are always close to the surface. The aim of this brochure is to present the reader with an overview of the rich, Icelandic literary flora. Here you will find a selection of notable and diverse books from the previous year, fiction, children’s books and non-fiction alike, chosen by our literary critics. We present some newcomers on the literary scene and give you an overview of the most recently published crime fiction. You will also find an overview of the books awarded annual literary prizes in Iceland. The brochure contains useful information for publishers and agents about Icelandic titles recently sold and information on translation grants for publishers abroad. Please enjoy! Hrefna Haraldsdóttir Director of the Icelandic Literature Center
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Jón Kalman Stefánsson
publishing details Novel 444 pp 2017
The Story of Ásta Saga Ástu
English sample translation available
Kristín Eiríksdóttir
Misc. Elín, ýmislegt
publisher Benedikt Publishing benedikt@benedikt.is www.benedikt.is rights Copenhagen Literary Agency Monica Gram monica@cphla.dk
* * * * *
Five out of five stars. Full house. Morgunblaðið The Story of Ásta is a marvellous dynasty story with Ásta Sigvaldadóttir in the epicenter. The main focus is Ásta’s life after her mother, Helga, leaves a husband with two young children in the growing city of Reykjavík in the last century. Ásta’s life is irrevocably shaped by her mother’s decision to desert her family and becomes a never-ending tug-of-war with love, loss and regret. The Story of Ásta is full of diverse and skilfully crafted characters that the readers can relate to and feels a strong connection to. The style is poetic and lyrical, yet at the same time austere and even unforgiving. The Story of Ásta is a work that is in active discourse with the Icelandic literary canon, full of references to key texts that add a wonderful layer to the world of meaning contained within this great novel. The diversity and brilliance of the work is, however, most apparent in the beautifully woven tapestry of a narrative that keeps the reader in suspense throughout a story where the mosaic pieces are only joined to form a complete picture at the very end. Over the last few years Jón Kalman Stefánsson (b. 1963) has created a unique and enchanting fictional world in a series of related novels and short stories. Two of these works, Summer Behind the Slope and Of Tall Trees and Time, were nominated for the Nordic Council Literature Prize. In 2005 Jón Kalman received the Icelandic Literary Prize for Summer Light, Enter Night, an unusual collection of connected stories and fragments. Jón Kalman made his international breakthrough with Trilogy about the Boy, which includes the titles Heaven and Hell, The Sorrow of Angels and The Heart of Man, for which he gained international recognition, numerous prizes, and a feature film deal.
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“The threads that Kristín Eiríksdóttir weaves together still have a hold on me, long after reading. Juicy and full of imagery.” Kiljan Literature Program – RÚV TV
rights sold Denmark (Batzer & Co.), France (Grasset), Germany (Piper Verlag), Italy (Iperborea), Sweden (Weyler Förlag), The Netherlands (Ambo Anthos)
Kristín Eiríksdóttir is an author with a unique place on the Icelandic literary scene. Misc. is a wonderful testament to her talents. This novel is a masterfully plotted story where the narrative moves between two women who turn out to be quite similar in many ways. Elín is a woman just past seventy who works at set design in theatre and movies. The story starts when she receives three boxes which contain various things from her life and past. Then Ellen, an up-and-coming dramatist, enters her life and she turns out to have played a part in Elín’s past, under terrible circumstances. This novel is a showcase for the author’s skill in describing revealing situations with a dense plot. Misc. is an unusually well plotted story, full of strong symbols and references that add depth and meaning to the text. This is a story of women in art and women in life, with all the cruelty, trauma, joy and revelation that entails.
foreign sales of previous titles Albania (Fan Noli), Brazil (Companhia das Letras), Bulgaria (Janet45), China (Beijing Xiron Books), Croatia (Fraktura), Czech Republic (Dybbuk), Denmark (Batzer & Co.), France (Grasset/Gallimard), Germany (Piper Verlag), Greece (Kastaniotis Editions), Hungary (Jelenkor Kiadó Kft./ Typotext), Italy (Iperborea), Israel (Modan Publihing House), Macedonia (Antolog Books), The Netherlands (Ambo Anthos), Norway (Forlaget Press/Lydbokforlaget), Poland (Polirom/W.A.B. Publishers), Portugal (Cavalo de Ferro/ Theoria), Romania (Polirom), Slovakia (ArtForum), Spain (Salamandra), Sweden (Weyler Förlag), Turkey (Epsilon/Kafka), UK (MacLehose Press), USA (Quercus), United Arab Emirates (Dar Al-Muna) among awards & nominations • 2017 Nominated for The Icelandic Literary Prize • 2017 Longlisted for the Man Booker International Prize • 2015 Nominated for the International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award • 2015 Shortlisted for the French Literary Award Prix Médicis • 2015 Nominated for the Nordic Council Literature Prize • 2015 Nominated for the Icelandic Literary Prize • 2015 Winner of the Best Foreign Novel LIRE Award • 2015 Awarded Millipages Award
Books from Iceland 2018
Kristín Eiríksdóttir (b. 1981) made her mark on the literary scene in a big way with her collection of short stories, Doris Dies in 2010. Critics agreed that a new, fully-fledged author had arrived with one of the most significant works of fiction of the year. Her voice is strong and importunate – one of the most original of her generation.
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Fiction
publishing details Novel 182 pp 2017 English sample translation available publisher Forlagið | JPV The Forlagid Rights Agency Valgerður Benediktsdóttir vala@forlagid.is www.forlagid.is rights sold Hungary (Polar Könyvek)
foreign sales of previous titles UK/US (Dalkey Archive Press; Best European Fiction) awards & nominations • 2018 – Awarded The Icelandic Women’s Literature Prize • 2017 – Awarded The Icelandic Literary Prize • 2014 – Awarded The Icelandic Bookseller’s Prize • 2015 – Nominated for the DV Cultural Prize for Drama • 2014 – Nominated for the The Icelandic Literary Prize • 2013 – Nominated for the Icelandic Women’s Literature Prize
Ólafur Jóhann Ólafsson
Gerður Kristný
The Sacrament Sakramentið
“Masterful turn of character … It doesn’t get much better … A great book.” Kiljan Literature Program – RÚV TV
publishing details Novel 346 pp 2017
“The style is engaging and there is lightness and humour, but also seriousness.” Kiljan Literature Program – RÚV TV
publishing details Novel 125 pp 2017
A nun is sent to Iceland as an emissary, in order to investigate accusations of wrongdoing by the staff of the Catholic Grammar School in Reykjavík. Twenty years later, she is sent to Reykjavík again, where she is forced to face her past, her personal mistakes and her failed mission. Ólafur Jóhann weaves a complex tale of the nun’s story, past and present, in a multilayered and nuanced narrative. The nun’s private pain and tragic fate arouse the reader’s sympathy, as she looks back over her life with great sadness, while trying to make her peace with her life and the chances she let slip through her fingers. This is also a story of the deeply disturbing events which have taken place within the Catholic Church and have come to light in recent years, worldwide. A suspenseful, yet tragic tale that takes a firm hold of the reader from the first page to the last.
publisher Veröld Publishing Pétur Már Ólafsson pmo@bjartur.is www.verold.is
This story takes the reader back in time to the 80’s and paints a clear and concise picture of Reykjavík at that time and the spirit of that decade within the framework of a typical residential area of Reykjavík. The main character is at a crossroads; she is about to finish high school and college looms and she is unsure if she should seek new friendships or retain the old ties. She wonders constantly about how she can fit it, what are the right clothes to buy and which music should she listen to? The author’s tenderness and love for this teenager from the past shines through and the reader is easily drawn back to times gone, filled with nostalgia. Here, the author describes with finesse and mastery the transformation of the teenage years, the state of being neither child nor grown-up, with all the uncertainty and angst of that age.
English sample translation available
Ólafur Jóhann Ólafsson (b. 1962) was born in Reykjavík and later studied physics as a Wien Scholar at Brandeis University. Among works by Ólafur Jóhann are Absolution, The Journey Home, and Walking Into The Night, as well as a collection of short stories, Valentines. His books have been published to critical acclaim in more than twenty languages. He is the recipient of the O. Henry Award and the Icelandic Literary Prize, was shortlisted for the Frank O’Connor Prize, and has twice been nominated for the IMPAC Award. He is the Executive Vice President, International and Corporate Strategy, of Time Warner and lives in New York.
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Smarties Smartís
rights Watkins / Loomis Agency Gloria Loomis
foreign sales of previous titles Denmark (Lindhardt & Ringhof/Forum), France (Seuil), Germany (Steidl), Israel (Modan), Italy (Corbaccio), Japan, The Netherlands (Nieuw Amsterdam/Nijgh & van Ditmar/ Signatuur), Norway (Gyldendal), Serbia (Samizdat B92), Spain (RBA), Sweden (Alfabeta), Turkey (Can Yayinlari), UK (Phoenix/ Faber & Faber), US (Random House/Ecco/Pantheon/Anchor)
Gerður Kristný (b. 1970) won the Icelandic Literary Prize in 2010 for her book-length poem Bloodhoof which was also nominated for the Nordic Council Literature Prize in 2012. Gerður Kristný is the author of more than 30 books of poetry, novels, short stories and children’s books. She has received numerous prizes and accolades for her work, which has been translated into many languages.
awards & nominations • 2008 Awarded The O. Henry Award • 2006 Awarded The Icelandic Literary Prize • 2007 Shortlisted for The Frank O’Connor Prize • 2004 & 2002 Nominated for the IMPAC Award • 1991 Nominated for The Icelandic Literary Prize
Books from Iceland 2018
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Fiction
publisher Forlagið | Mál og menning The Forlagid Rights Agency Sif Jóhannsdóttir sif@forlagid.is www.forlagid.is
foreign sales of previous titles Denmark (Vandkunsten), Finland (Savukeidas/Hap(p)I), Germany (Ullstein/Bloomsbury), Norway (Nordsjöforlaget/Aschehoug/ Bokvennen), Sweden (Ariel), UK (Arc Publications) awards • 2010 The Icelandic Literary Prize • 2010, 2008 & 2005 The Icelandic Booksellers´ Prize • 2010 The West-Nordic Children’s Literature Prize • 2010 The Guðmundur Böðvarsson Poetry Award • 2005 The Icelandic Journalism Award • 2004 The Halldór Laxness Literature Prize • 2003 The Children’s Choice Book Prize
Friðgeir Einarsson
Halldór Armand
Again & Again Aftur og aftur
The Chairman of the Residents’ Association Formaður húsfélagsins
“Despite the emphasis on superficiality, this is also a story about fate versus luck, faith, atheism, and humanity.” Frettablaðið Again & Again is a fascinating tale of the lives of two individuals and at the same time, an interesting look at the era in which they live. The story begins on the fateful day of September 11th, 2001, on which the lives of Arnmundur and Stefán are irrevocably changed. Their paths, however, do not cross until years later, when they start a joint investigation on crowd behaviour on the Internet. Within this storyline, the author addresses a variety of interesting topics of contemporary existence. Uppermost in his mind is the complex relationship between Man and technology in a society driven by marketing, how large corporations see personal information as valuable assets, man’s relationship with faith, perceptions and ideas of masculinity, and so forth. Again & Again is a fascinating critique of contemporary society, as well as a story about ordinary people looking to connect and find love in a world where computers, screens and social media have replaced regular communication.
publishing details Novel 309 pp 2017
“A marvellously funny story … Extremely entertaining. And well written to boot.” Kiljan Literature Program – RÚV TV
publishing details Novel 208 pp 2017
English sample translation available
A young man who can’t seem to figure out quite what he wants out of life decides to live for a time in his sister’s apartment in a residential building in Reykjavík. Gradually, he gets to know his neighbours; some of them very well, others only fleetingly. His stay in the building is longer than expected and we are presented with a portrait of a rather mundane existence of the people living in the building, with all that life entails. The author paints a humorous and vivid picture of everyday existence, where people’s circumstances are at times tragicomic and where the struggles and conflicts between neighbours will seem familiar to many readers. Therefore, the reader easily identifies with the characters and the adventures of their daily life and can smile knowingly at their antics and personal struggles. This is a marvellous story about everyday life in Iceland, full of humour and wit.
English sample translation available
publisher Forlagið | Mál og menning The Forlagid Rights Agency Sif Jóhannsdóttir sif@forlagid.is www.forlagid.is
Friðgeir Einarsson (b. 1981) is an author, director, performer and creative copywriter. He graduated from the Iceland Academy of the Arts with a degree in Theater making and holds a BA degree in Icelandic language & literature. In 2012 he founded Kriðpleir Theater Group, which has gained great popularity in Reykjavík. The short story collection Takk fyrir að láta mig vita (Thank you for letting me know) is his first book, published in 2016, and The Chairman of the Residents’ Association marks his debut as a novelist.
Halldór Armand (b. 1986) is a new and extraordinary voice in Icelandic literature. He received great acclaim for his previous novels, Vince Vaughn in the Sky and Drone. His play Shift was performed at the Norðurpóll theater and was well received. In 2014 he was awarded the Icelandic Literature Center’s Grassroots Grants for his book Vince Vaughn in the Sky. awards • 2014 The Icelandic Literature Center’s Grassroot Grants
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Books from Iceland 2018
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Fiction
publisher Benedikt Publishing Guðrún Vilmundardóttir gv@benedikt.is www.benedikt.is
Kristín Helga Gunnarsdóttir
Be Invisible – The Story of Ishmael’s Escape Vertu ósýnilegur – Flóttasaga Ishmaels
Kristín Helga Gunnarsdóttir (b. 1963) has in the past years established herself as one of the most popular writers in Iceland. For her numerous books for children she has received many rewards and nominations, among them the West-Nordic Children’s Literature Prize and the Reykjavík City Children’s Book Award. She has been nominated for The Nordic Council Children and Young People's Literature Prize and the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award.
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Monsters in Trouble Skrímsli í vanda * * * *
publishing details Children | YA 234 pp 2017
"A must-read for every human being" Kvennablaðið In this book, Kristín Helga Gunnarsdóttir makes use of her many years of experience as a news journalist as she examines the lives and fate of those who escape war-torn countries and arrive on distant shores in the Northernmost parts of the world. Be Invisible – The Story of Ishmael’s Escape tells the story of the teenager Ishmael, who escapes from his native city of Aleppo and seeks asylum in Iceland, but it is also the story of a “quota family” of asylum seekers in a Reykjavík suburb. Ishmael’s story moves forward in time, but the family’s story looks back and that way, the author paints a fascinating picture of the tragic and painful reality of refugees. The subject matter of Be Invisible – The Story of Ishmael’s Escape may be grim but the story itself is at times both charming and entertaining. The style is light and unencumbered, the pace of events keeps the readers turning the pages and the hope of a better life is ever present. Be Invisible – The Story of Ishmael’s Escape is a Young Adult category book that readers at every age will enjoy and benefit from reading.
Áslaug Jónsdóttir Kalle Güettler Rakel Helmsdal
“A wonderful addition to a great book series, funny and sad at the same time, with reference to problems the whole world is dealing with and needs to solve.” Fréttablaðið
English sample translation available publisher Forlagið | Mál og menning The Forlagid Rights Agency Valgerður Benediktsdóttir vala@forlagid.is www.forlagid.is
Áslaug Jónsdóttir has contributed to the entertainment and enrichment of Icelandic children for decades with her highly artistic and wonderful books. This is her ninth book about the monsters and their many antics. Here, Big Monster has to take on Hairy Monster, who has moved in with Small Monster and refuses to leave. This well-written, funny story gives kids and adults a chance to relate the Monsters’ conflicts to the real challenges in life and ask questions about friendship and unity. The marvellous illustrations pull the young reader into a fascinating world and the artist uses typography to emphasize meaning and message, as in the previous books. And just like the previous books, this one will charm and enchant children of any age. Monsters in trouble received the Icelandic Literary Prize 2017.
foreign sales of previous titles Germany/Austria/Switzerland (Muekenschwein) awards & nominations • 2018 Nominated for The Nordic Council Children and Young People's Literature Prize • 2018 & 2008 The Icelandic Women’s Literature Prize • 2017 Nominated for The Icelandic Literary Prize • 2017 Nominated for The Icelandic Booksellers’ Prize • 2017 Nominated for The Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award • 2010 IBBY Honour List • 2009 Nominated for The Nordic Council Children and Young People’s Literature Prize • 2009 & 2004 IBBY Iceland’s Children’s Literature Prize • 2008 The West-Nordic Children’s Literature Prize • 2008/2006/2005/2004/2002 The Children’s Choice Book Prize • 2001 Reykjavík Children’s Literature Prize • 1999 Nominated for the Reykjavík Children’s Book Prize
Books from Iceland 2018
Áslaug Jónsdóttir (b. 1963) received The Reykjavík Children’s Literature Prize for her work as illustrator in 2000. Her illustrations have been selected for the IBBY Honor List: Children’s Verses with text by Böðvar Gudmundsson in 2004 and The Story of the Blue Planet with text by Andri Snær Magnason in 2002, for which she received the WestNordic Children’s Book Prize and the UKLA Award 2014 along with the author. She was nominated to the 2015 Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award. Rakel Helmsdal lives in Torshavn in the Faroe Islands. She is an author of children’s books, plays, and short stories. Kalle Güettler lives in Häverö in the Uppland province in Sweden. Kalle is an author of fiction for children and teenagers, as well as textbooks and educational material.
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Children & YA
publishing details Children, 2–6 years | Illustrated 32 pp 2017 publisher Forlagið | Mál og menning The Forlagid Rights Agency Sif Jóhannsdóttir sif@forlagid.is www.forlagid.is rights sold Faroe Islands (Bókadeildin) Sweden (Opal)
foreign sales of previous titles China (Maitian Culture), Czech Republic (Argo), Denmark (Torgard/Carlsen), Faroe Islands (Bókadeildin), Finland (Pieni Karhu), Spain/Catalonia/France (Circonf lexe/Millepages), Latvia (Liels un Mazs), Lithuania (Burokelis), Norway (Skald), Russia (Meshcheryakov Publishing House), Spain/ Catalonia/Galicia/Basque Country (Sushi Books), Sweden (Kabusa/Bonnier Carlsen), United Arab Emirates (Hudhud) awards & nominations • 2018 & 2013 Nominated for The Nordic Council Children and Young People's Literature Prize • 2017 The Icelandic Literary Prize • 2016, 2004 & 2002 Selected for IBBY Honour List • 2008 Gríman – The Icelandic Theatre Award • 2007, 2005 & 2000 Reykjavík Children’s Literature Prize • 2005 & 2004 The Icelandic Booksellers’ Prize • 2005 & 2004 Dimmalimm – The Icelandic Illustrators’ Award • 2004 White Ravens: Special mention, International Youth Library (IYL) Munich, Germany • 2002 West-Nordic Children’s Literature Prize
Ævar Þór Benediktsson
Your Very Own Fairytale Þitt eigið ævintýri
A book that works like a computer game – you decide what happens next!
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Úlfur and Edda: The Dragon’s Eyes Úlfur og Edda: Drekaaugun
The narrative is witty, full of action and exciting to the last page.
publishing details Children & YA 342 pp 2017
In the last years, the entertainment material on offer for young readers has changed profoundly and Your Very Own Fairytale is an attempt to respond to those changes. This is the fourth book in the “Your Very Own …” series by Ævar Þór Benediktsson, where the readers are given a chance to choose the direction the story takes as they read it. The reader takes on the role of the hero/heroine, which further enhances the interactive experience of the reader. The books have been hugely popular with young readers, who make ample use of the various possibilities of the books by reading them again and again and taking a new path each time. In Your Very Own Fairytale the reader embarks on a journey into the enchanted forest of familiar fairy tales such as Hansel and Gretel, Sleeping Beauty and other old favorites, and encounters various familiar characters. The result is a hugely entertaining reading experience for young readers, who will spend hours in the fantastic forest of Ævar’s book.
Ævar Þór Benediktsson (b. 1984) has become popular for his entertaining children’s books and programmes, on the television and radio. He has won awards for scripts and stage plays as well as a recognition for his work in science and education. His book Your Very Own Fable won the Icelandic Booksellers’ Prize and the Children’s Choice Book Prize as the best children’s book of the year.
Kristín Ragna Gunnarsdóttir
This is the second book about stepsiblings Edda and Úlfur and their many adventures. As in the previous book, the author delves into the treasure chest of the Icelandic Sagas and lore to weave this marvellous tale. Úlfur and Edda are about to go on a summer holiday trip around Iceland when Edda’s grandmother suddenly faces accusations of stealing a valuable item from the National Museum, where she works. The grandmother then disappears, but the children soon figure out that she has left a secret trail for them to follow. As in the previous book, Úlfur and Edda must travel to the world of the old Nordic gods as they track the path of clues Edda’s grandmother has left for them. The journey to the world of the Gods is adventurous and the children meet familiar characters, such as Loki, Iðunn and the three Fates, who come alive in a fresh and funny way. The narrative is witty, full of action and exciting to the last page.
English sample translation available publisher Forlagið | Mál og menning The Forlagid Rights Agency Sif Jóhannsdóttir sif@forlagid.is www.forlagid.is rights sold Russia (Meshcheryakov)
publishing details Children 217 pp 2017 publisher Bókabeitan Birgitta Elín Hassell birgitta@bokabeitan.is www.bokabeitan.is
foreign sales of previous titles Abu Dhabi (AlFulk) Russia (Meshcheryakov) awards & nominations • 2017 & 2016 Nominated for The Icelandic Literary Prize • 2017 Selected for the Hay Festival’s Aarhus 39 List – A Collection of the 39 Best Emerging Writers for Young People from Across Europe • 2016 Nominated for Finalist and first International Selection of the DeBary Outstanding Children’s Book Awards • 2014 Awarded The Icelandic Booksellers’ Prize • 2015 Awarded The Children’s Choice Book Prize • 2017/2016/2015 Edda Awards Winner – Best Children’s Programme • 2016 Edda Awards Winner – Best Entertainment Programme
Books from Iceland 2018
Kristín Ragna Gunnarsdóttir (b. 1968) is an Icelandic author, illustrator and graphic designer. She has a master’s degree in creative writing and has illustrated countless children’s books and received the Icelandic Illustrator’s Award twice, and a nomination for the Icelandic Literary Prize in 2008. Her illustrations of the ancient, Icelandic poem Hávamál earned her a place on the IBBY honorary list in 2014 and her illustrations in that book were chosen for the exhibition Into the Wind! in 2015 IBBY in Iceland rewarded her for her continuing work in the field of children’s culture.
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Children & YA
foreign sales of previous titles Czech Republic (Barrister & Principal) awards & nominations • 2018 Shortlisted for In Other Words, Úlfur and Edda; the Relic • 2017 Nominated for The Icelandic Women’s Literature Awards, Children & YA • 2014 Nominated for the IBBY Honour List • 2011 & 2008 Awarded the Icelandic Illustrator’s Award Dimmalimm • 2008 Nominated for the Icelandic Literary Prize
Fiction Albania Aleph Klub
La Peuplade
Gyrðir Elíasson Sandárbókin China Beijing Red Dot
Sjón Skugga-Baldur Rökkurbýsnir
Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir Undantekningin
Armenia Guitank
China Radio International Press
Árni Þórarinsson Glæpurinn Bulgaria Calligraph
Jón Gnarr Sjóræninginn Útlaginn Emas
Yrsa Sigurðardóttir Aflausn Sogið DNA Janet 45
Jón Kalman Stefánsson Hjarta mannsins List 2016
Thor Vilhjálmsson Grámosinn glóir Brazil Editora Âyiné
Jón R. Hjálmarsson Þjóðsögur við þjóðveginn Globo
Bergsveinn Birgisson Leitin að svarta víkingnum Canada Grove Atlantic
Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir Ör La Peuplade
Dagur Hjartarson Síðasta ástarjátningin
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Einar Már Guðmundsson Riddarar hringstigans China Radio International Press
Fríða Á. Sigurðardóttir Á meðan nóttin líður Xiron
Jón Kalman Stefánsson Hjarta mannsins Harmur englanna Fiskarnir hafa enga fætur Eitthvað á stærð við alheiminn Zhejiang Publishing
Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir Afleggjarinn Croatia Sandorf nakladnistvo
Oddný Eir Ævarsdóttir Jarðnæði Znanje
Ragnar Jónasson Snjóblinda Czech Republic Albatros media
Bergsveinn Birgisson Leitin að svarta víkingnum Albatros Media
Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir Rigning í nóvember
Dubrovsky
Sigríður Hagalín Björnsdóttir Eyland Dubrovsky
Ragnar Jónasson Dimma Dybbuk
Gyrðir Elíasson Koparakur Kniha Zlin
Steinar Bragi Kata MOBA
Arnaldur Indriðason Synir duftsins Denmark Batzer & Co
Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir Ör Batzer & Co
Jón Kalman Stefánsson Sumarljós, og svo kemur nóttin Saga Ástu C&K forlag
Bergsveinn Birgisson Handbók um hugarfar kúa Forlaget Multivers
Jakobína Sigurðardóttir Í barndómi Forlaget Vandkunsten
Gerður Kristný Hestvík Egypt Al Arabi
Jón Gnarr Sjóræninginn Al Arabi
Árni Þórarinsson Tími nornarinnar
Recently sold
Al Arabi
Lilja Sigurðardóttir Gildran Estonia Varrak
Bergsveinn Birgisson Leitin að svarta víkingnum Ethiopia Hohe Publisher
Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir Afleggjarinn Hohe Publisher
Guðrún Eva Mínervudóttir Skaparinn
Hohe Publisher
Steinar Bragi Hálendið
Faroe Islands Sprotin
Halldór Laxness Heimsljós Finland Bazar
Bergsveinn Birgisson Leitin að svarta víkingnum
Métailie
Eiríkur Örn Norðdahl Gæska Métailie
Lilja Sigurðardóttir Búrið Métailie
Arnaldur Indriðason Synir duftsins Dauðarósir Petsamo Myrkrið veit Zulma
Einar Már Guðmundsson Íslenskir kóngar Georgia KLIO
Ófeigur Sigurðsson Skáldsaga um Jón Germany Bastei Lübbe
La Martinière
Ragnar Jónasson Andköf Rof Dimma
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Gondolat kiado
Auður Jónsdóttir Stóri skjálfti Polar Könyvek
Pétur Gunnarsson Punktur, punktur, komma, strik Polar Publishing
Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir Ör India Gulshan Books
Iraq Al Mada Group for Media, Culture and Arts
Guðrún Eva Mínervudóttir Skegg Raspútíns
Fischer Verlage
Jón Kalman Stefánsson Saga Ástu
Yrsa Sigurðardóttir Aflausn Sogið DNA
btb/Random House
France Actes Sud
Editions Grasset
Hungary Animus
Halldór Laxness Vefarinn mikli frá Kasmír
Fischer Verlage
Bergsveinn Birgisson Landslag er aldrei asnalegt
Jón Kalman Stefánsson Harmur englanna
Arnaldur Indriðason Petsamo
Blue Moon
Arnaldur Indriðason Petsamo
Greece Kastaniotis
Sjón CoDex 1962
Ragnar Jónasson Andköf Piper Verlag
Jón Kalman Stefánsson Saga Ástu Residenz Verlag
Bergsveinn Birgisson Landslag er aldrei asnalegt
Halldór Laxness Sjálfstætt fólk Israel Xargol Books
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Bragi Ólafsson Gæludýrin
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Cappelen Damm
Indjáninn er saga um fjörmikinn strák, örverpi aldraðra foreldra. Drengurinn á við ýmis vandamál að stríða sem valda honum erfiðleikum í uppvextinum, svo sem ofvirkni, athyglisbrest, rautt hár og nærsýni. Hann er hugmyndaríkur og margvísleg uppátæki hans, sum stórhættuleg, vekja litla lukku hjá hinum fullorðnu. Þetta er áhrifamikil uppvaxtarsaga sem sveiflast á milli strákslegrar gleði og nístandi einmanaleika þess sem ekki er alltaf í takt við umhverfið, en jafnframt er hér brugðið upp ljóslifandi mynd af samfélagi áttunda áratugarins frá sjónarhorni barnsins.
Arnaldur Indriðason Petsamo Cappelen Damm
Sigríður Hagalín Björnsdóttir Eyland Jón Gnarr kallar Indjánann skáldaða ævisögu og segir í eftirmála sínum: „Margir spyrja sig eflaust hvort þessi bók sé ævisaga eða skáldsaga. Hún er bæði. Hún er ekki alveg sönn. Það er þó engin bein lygi í henni. Ég trúi ekki á lygi.“
g in ýs ð l il gó að t g
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ér
em in is ig s h lfr á m efur sjá r rkt h t s te m ð á alvö ki sís ati r se „Indjáninn orkaði ek rri M s sg lóða s u a n r y k k ÓK ið ar k no L E S B minn in v af á uppruna tek É/ ig upp PP as fullRO verið ryfj RP ðk TA ÓT til a
IN
Forlaget Press
ÐS
Jón Gnarr Indjáninn Sjóræninginn
„Fæðing mín er annað reiðarslag fyrir fjölskylduna. Að vísu er ég ekki þroskaheftur. Það er léttir. En eftir fæðinguna blasir önnur hryllileg staðreynd við: Ég er rauðhærður. Það hefði ekki getað verið meira áfall þótt ég hefði verið svartur.“
u. “
Iperborea
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ót
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eg g innl u nsk gott ísle era .“ við að v nir ka ss as L A Ð I Ð r e a þ NB sk
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2017 – 2018
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Recently sold
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2017 – 2018
Jónas Reynir Gunnarsson
Bergþóra Snæbjörnsdóttir
Through Flight Millilending
“Really well written. The plot develops nicely and the style is somehow pure.” Kiljan Literature Program – RÚV TV
publishing details Novel 176 pp 2017
This debut novel by a young writer has been widely noticed in Iceland and enjoyed considerable popularity. In the story, we enter the life and mind of a young woman for approximately 24 hours, while she waits in Iceland for a transit flight, on her way from England, in the wake of a failed love affair, to her father in Denmark. By chance, she meets some old friends and events take an unexpected turn. Instead of facing her present problems of being out of a job and heartbroken, she goes clubbing in Reykjavík. We learn that the young woman’s life has been far from idyllic and that she finds it hard to take control of her own life and even harder to figure out how to please her family. Here, we are presented with a finely honed and convincing description of the nightlife in today’s Reykjavík, but even more so, the book is a detailed portrait of the chaotic life of this young woman and her struggle to figure out how to manage her own life.
English sample translation available
Jónas Reynir Gunnarsson (b. 1987) is a poet, playwright, short story writer, and novelist. He holds an M.A. in creative writing from the University of Iceland. His second book of poetry, Stór olíuskip (Big Oil Tankers) was awarded the annual Tómas Guðmundsson Poetry Prize by the City of Reykjavík in 2017. He also won the University of Iceland’s student newspaper’s annual poetry prize in 2014 and the Iceland Academy of the Arts’ annual playwrighting competition in 2015. Jónas Reynir has previously published two books of poetry, Stór olíuskip (Big Oil Tankers) and Leiðarvísir um þorp (A Village Manual) in 2017. Millilending (Through Flight) is his first novel.
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Florida Flórída
“The poems move swiftly between self-confidence and desperation, beauty and loathing; there is very little joy but most definitely sorrow.” Víðsjá Cultural Program – RÚV Radio Bergþóra Snæbjörnsdóttir’s Florida isn’t a US state; it’s a woman. She is one of the two main characters in a series of wonderful prose poems forming an unforgettable and tragic tale. The poems tell the story of a young woman who arrives in Berlin and becomes acquainted with Flórída, a ragged punk type in her sixties. The two end up as flat mates and the young woman gets to know Flórída’s story, her dreams and hopes. The book consists of seven series of poems, where the bohemian life is portrayed as harsh and decadent, a life where loneliness is inescapable; a life where beauty turns into ugliness, joy turns to sorrow, self-confidence into self-loathing and dreams into nightmares. The imagery is cold and unforgiving, yet original and full of impact, and the text is rich with poetic humour at its best. Florida offers a unique insight into bohemian life in the big city and is at the same time an honest and deeply personal work that deals with fundamental questions about life and human existence.
publisher Partus Valgerður Þóroddsdóttir vala@partuspress.com www.partuspress.com rights sold Denmark (Gyldendal) UK (Partus Press)
Bergþóra Snæbjörnsdóttir (b. 1985) grew up by the Lake Úlfljótsvatn, but currently lives in Reykjavík. She published the poetry book Daloon dagar (Daloon Days) in 2011 and the prose collection Dagar undrabarnsins eru á enda (The Era of the Wunderkind Is Over) in 2013. Bergþóra is one half of the artist duo Wunderkind Collective. She holds degrees in psychology and creative writing from the University of Iceland and is at present working on a Master’s degree in applied culture and communication at that university. Bergþóra Snæbjörnsdóttir was nominated for the Icelandic Literary Prize and for Fjöruverðlaunin, the Women’s Literature Prize, for Florida.
awards • 2017 The Tómas Guðmundsson Poetry Prize
Books from Iceland 2018
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Debutants
publishing details Poem 112 pp 2017 English sample translation available publisher Benedikt Publishing Guðrún Vilmundardóttir gv@benedikt.is www.benedikt.is
nominations • 2017 The Icelandic Literary Prize • 2017 The Icelandic Women’s Literature Prize
Adolf Smári
On the Philosophy of ABBA & the Toltecs (Or My Life as Olof Palme) Um lífsspeki ABBA & Tolteka (eða líf mitt sem Olof Palme) “A modern and fresh take on the classic tale of love, maturity and philosophy” Ingunn Snædal, author
publishing details Novel 172 pp 2017
On the Philosophy of ABBA & the Toltecs (Or My Life as Olof Palme) is an energetic book, full of creative energy and fun. D., the book’s main character and narrator, has just passed twenty. He tells us about himself and his friends, the ups and downs of their love life and dealings with the opposite sex, their ideas about the world they live in and their hopes for the future. The storytelling is packed with witty references to philosophy, literature, politics and music, always laced with a keen sense of humour. On the Philosophy of ABBA & the Toltecs (Or My Life as Olof Palme) is a treat of a book where the reader can get a close-up look at the younger generation in Reykjavík, seen through the eyes of “one of the flock”. A generation that longs to take a break from the smartphone and truly become a better version of the previous generations.
English sample translation available
Björn Halldórsson
Misdemeanors Smáglæpir
“A memorable debut for Björn Halldórsson” Fréttablaðið Misdemeanors is a collection of seven short stories, all set in rather mundane surroundings and circumstances, yet each a narrative in which the characters find themselves in situations that lead to guilt. These are, however, all situations in which each and every one of us might end up. The stories are suspenseful and the author is adept at setting vivid scenes, peopled with memorable characters. The storylines are realistic and the emotions they deal with are recognisable to every one of us. The reader finds it easy to identify and sympathise with the characters, whose pain and guilt is portrayed with depth and sensitivity. The author has excellent grasp of the short story narrative form and for a debut, this book augurs well for an interesting career as a writer.
publisher Benedikt Publishing Guðrún Vilmundardóttir gv@benedikt.is www.benedikt.is
Adolf Smári Unnarsson was born in 1993. On the Philosophy of ABBA & the Toltecs (Or My Life as Olof Palme) is his first novel. Adolf Smári works in different forms and media. In March 2017 he had his first private show, featuring the happening Bréf um lög sem minna mig á ást (Letters About Songs That Remind Me of Love) at Gallery Tukt in Iceland and in early 2018 he opened the gallery show Písla, featuring texts and photos. Adolf Smári is currently a student at The Iceland Academy of the Arts.
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Books from Iceland 2018
Björn Halldórsson was born in Reykjavík in 1983. He holds a degree in English and American Literature from The University of East Anglia and a degree in Creative Writing from The University of Glasgow. His work has been published in Scotland by Valve Journal and From Glasgow to Saturn, in Italy by Effe: Periodico di Altra Narratività and in Iceland by Tímarit Máls og menningar, Stína, Tunglið, Ós Press and Partus Press. He currently resides in New York with his wife. Smáglæpir (Misdemeanors) is his first full length book.
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Debutants
publishing details Short Story Collection / Realist Fiction 142 pp 2017 English sample translation available publisher Sæmundur Publishing House bjarnihardar@gmail.com bjornhalldorssonis@gmail.com www.bjornhalldorsson.com
awards • 2016 Icelandic Literature Center’s Grassroots Grant
Unnur Þóra Jökulsdóttir
The Wonders of Lake Mývatn Undur Mývatns
Watercolours by Árni Einarsson and Margaret Davies
“A glorious work of art…one of the most beautiful books that has ever been published in Iceland.” Vikan Magazine
publishing details Narrative non-fiction 183 pp 2017
Lake Mývatn is one of the most popular and beautiful natural wonders of Northern Iceland and this is a remarkable guide to its wonders: the nature, ecosystem, flora and fauna of the lake is presented to us in a personal and unique way. This book is a treasure chest of information on every aspect of the lake and there is no doubt that the research work behind the accessible and well written text is extensive. As the author describes the area, she tells us famous tales of Mývatn, ancient as well as new ones, which adds even more richness and life to the book. The author herself has lived by the lake for several years and her personal experience of love and respect for her subject matter is evident in every line. The book is illustrated by lovely watercolour pictures of plants and animals that make it even more vivid and readable.
English sample translation available
Hjörleifur Hjartarson Rán Flygenring
Birds Fuglar
As well as being a highly entertaining read, the book provides a wealth of information on the life and behavior of birds, mixed with folklore, superstition and even a few cooking tips. Birds is not just any bird book, indeed far from it. It’s not full of scientific, detailed information or photos. All the same, it may well be the most entertaining bird book you have ever come across. Birds is a book for everyone in your home, offering a unique chance to get to know the birds of Iceland and get familiar with the characteristics and personalities of each species. The text and the images are based on that approach and the authors both entertain and arouse the curiosity of learned and uninitiated readers alike, using humor and storytelling skills. As well as being a highly entertaining read, the book provides a wealth of information on the life and behavior of birds, mixed with folklore, superstition and even a few cooking tips. Birds heralds a fresh, original and exciting approach to learning about nature and is not to be missed by anyone, whether as a lively, interesting read or a source of information.
publisher Forlagið | Mál og menning The Forlagid Rights Agency Sif Jóhannsdóttir sif@forlagid.is www.forlagid.is rights sold Germany (Suhrkamp), Norway (Spartacus), The Netherlands (Ambo Anthos)
Unnur Þóra Jökulsdóttir (b. 1955) has written popular books on nature, people, and voyage, both on her own and in collaboration with others. Most of her books on Iceland have been published in other languages besides Icelandic. The Wonders of Lake Mývatn was awarded the Icelandic Literary Prize 2017 and The Icelandic Women’s Literature Prize in the non-fiction category.
publisher Angústúra María Rán Guðjónsdóttir maria.ran@angustura.is www.angustura.is
Hjörleifur Hjartarson (b. 1960) is a qualified teacher who has also made his mark as a writer, translator and musician. He has written information texts for museums and theater shows and one such project led him into the world of birds, where he has spent considerable time ever since. Rán Flygenring (b. 1987) is an illustrator and innovator. Her work includes project of every kind, such as drawings for books and magazines, graffiti, stamp making and graphic work for weddings, conferences and everything in between. Rán is a wanderer, working and living in Iceland as well as abroad and definitely falls into the category of “migrating bird”.
awards & nominations • 2017 The Icelandic Literary Prize, non-fiction • 2017 The Icelandic Women’s Literature Prize, non-fiction • 2018 Nominated to Hagthenkir non-fiction Prize
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publishing details Illustrated non-fiction | Family Book 184 pp 2017
Books from Iceland 2018
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Non-fiction
awards & nominations • 2017 Nominated for The Icelandic Literary Prize, non-fiction • 2017 Awarded the Icelandic Bookseller’s Prize
Þorvaldur Kristinsson
Helgi – Endurminningar Helga Tómassonar ballettdansara Helgi Tómasson – a Memoir of a Dancer “Written with a dancer’s effortless grace” Kiljan Literature Program – RÚV TV Helgi Tómasson is one of the most renowned ballet dancers of his time, with a brilliant career as a dancer, and later on as a choreographer and as Artistic Director of The San Francisco Ballet. In his lifetime, Helgi had to leap over several hurdles, as a dancer and in his personal life, and in this book Þorvaldur Kristinsson tells us the adventure that is the life of this boy from the Westman Islands who became an international star. In his early years, Helgi had to deal with a society where boys were not really supposed to be interested in, let alone study, ballet. This did not stop Helgi, who followed his dream and became a professional ballet dancer. The book is masterfully written and Helgi’s personal odyssey is also an invaluable source of information on the history and development of ballet as an art form in the latter half of the 20th century.
Mikael Torfason
The Fallen Syndafallið
publishing details Biography 282 pp 2017
“An experienced writer with excellent grasp of his subject.” Kiljan Literature Program – RÚV TV
publishing details Memoir 260 pp 2017
English sample translation available
Two years ago Mikael Torfason published Lost in Paradise, the first part of his autobiographical account of his family and childhood, to great critical acclaim. In The Fallen he continues his story. Mikael’s story is of a childhood and a life in a home where alcoholism and religious fanaticism, poverty and riches, sanity and madness are in constant conflict, and where this conflict shapes every one in the family. The narrative is interspersed with the story of the last days of Mikael’s father, who died of alcoholism at around the time the author finished his book. The Fallen is an intensely honest and direct story of good times as well as horrible ones, in the life of people who attempt to act with love and often fail miserably, told with great respect and tenderness. This is an unforgettable story about a remarkable life.
English sample translation available
publisher Bjartur Publishing Páll Valsson pall@bjartur.is www.bjartur.is
Mikael Torfason was born in Reykjavík in 1974. He has written seven novels, translated into Germany, Danish, Finnish, Swedish and Lithuanian. Lost in Paradise (Týnd í Paradís) is Torfason’s sixth book. It was published in 2015, and is a bestseller in Iceland. His fourth novel, Samuel, was nominated for The Icelandic Literary Prize and his third novel, The Worlds Stupidest Dad (Heimsins heimskasti pabbi), was nominated for Nordic Council Literature Prize as well as the DV Cultural Prize for Literature. Mikael Torfason lives in Reykjavík. He has four children, and is currently writing a new book as well as a new play.
Þorvaldur Kristinsson (b. 1950) holds degrees in literary theory and gender studies and has been a prolific publisher, writer and human rights activist for decades. Among his published works are the memoirs Veistu ef þú vin átt – Minningar Aðalheiðar Hólm Spans and Lárus Pálsson leikari. The latter work earned Þorvaldur the Icelandic Literary Prize in 2008.
awards • 2017 The Icelandic Booksellers’ Prize for best biography • 2008 The Icelandic Literary Prize non-fiction
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Books from Iceland 2018
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Biography
publisher Sögur útgáfa Tómas Hermannsson sogurutgafa@sogurutgafa.is foreign sales of previous titles Denmark (People’s Press/ Rosinante), Finland (Like), Germany (Stroux Edition/Tropen Verlag), Lithuania (Pasvires Pasaulis)
awards & nominations • 2014 Best Play at the Gríma Awards in Iceland • Best Play at the Nat&Dag Awards in Norway • 2002 Nominated for the Nordic Council Literature Prize • 2002 Nominated for the Icelandic Literary Prize • Nominated for DV Literature Prize • Nominated for Best Film at The Digital Film Festival In Berlin • Nominated for Best Film at The International Film Award in Sao Paulo • Nominated for Best Film at the Edda Film Awards in Iceland – twice • Nominated for Best Play at The Hedda Awards in Norway • Nominated for Best Play at the Gríma Awards in Iceland – twice
Bergur Ebbi Benediktsson
Arnaldur Indriðason
Room Temperature Stofuhiti
“His writing about social media interaction, bullying and public shaming are noteworthy for quality and depth …” Morgunblaðið Room Temperature, an essay on our times, is a witty and entertaining investigation into the society and times of a writer who belongs to the first generation of smartphone and social media users. The author’s diverse background in standup comedy, law, future studies and column writing, besides all the various roles each of us has to play on a daily basis, can be seen as typical for the ever-increasing complications of our lives as we strive to obtain the utmost in western wellbeing under the best possible circumstances – or at room temperature, if you will. Bergur Ebbi’s method of analysing his own contemporary is to use himself and his friends and loved ones as a starting point, which makes the book personal as well as very entertaining, as he makes use of his talent as a stand-up comedian to regale the reader with incidents and events from his own life. Room Temperature is an energetic and funny analysis of our present, in all its flux and constant change, and helps us to view both our present and our future from a fresh perspective.
What The Darkness Knows Myrkrið veit
publishing details Essay 218 pp 2017
“An ingeniously constructed novel, perfectly written and powerful.” DV Newspaper
English sample translation available
An old case is brought back to the attention of the police when a body is discovered high on a glacier. The body turns out to have been up there for thirty years and Konráð, the police officer who investigated the missing person report at that time, is retired. The unsolved case, however, is one that has haunted him for decades. He is therefore happy to reopen it and when new information is brought to light following the discovery of the body, the investigation takes new and exciting turns. The reader also gets to know more about Konráð and his past as the story unwinds and his story becomes a compelling and interesting parallel storyline to the investigation. What The Darkness Knows is Arnaldur Indriðason’s 21st crime novel and it will not disappoint his many fans. Past and present merge in a thrilling way and every character is forged and shaped with the warmth we know and love from Arnaldur’s previous work.
publisher Forlagið | Mál og menning The Forlagid Rights Agency Valgerður Benediktsdóttir vala@forlagid.is www.forlagid.is
Bergur Ebbi Benediktsson (b. 1981), poet, journalist, and stand-up comedian, writes with sensitivity and enthusiasm about present realities – what matters to us: who are we, and where are we going? How has social media changed our perspective of the world? With all this new information in the world, have we gained more meaning?
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Non-fiction
Arnaldur Indriðason (b. 1961) has the rare distinction of having won the Nordic Crime Novel Prize two years running. He is also the winner of the highly respected and world famous CWA Gold Dagger Award for the top crime novel of the year in the English language, Silence of the Grave. Indriðason’s novels have sold over 13 million copies worldwide, in 40 languages, and have won numerous well-respected prizes and received rave reviews all over the world.
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Crime Fiction
publishing details Crime Fiction 283 pp 2017 English sample translation available publisher Forlagið | Vaka-Helgafell The Forlagid Rights Agency Valgerður Benediktsdóttir vala@forlagid.is www.forlagid.is rights sold France (Métailié), The Netherlands (Uitgeverij Q)
foreign sales of previous titles Abu Dhabi (Thaqafa), Armenia (Guitank), Brazil (Companhia das Letras), Bulgaria (Colibri), Catalonia (La Magrana), Czech Republic (MOBA), Croatia (Knjige i sve to), Simplified Chinese (Xinhua), Denmark (Rosinante), Estonia (NyNorden), Ethiopia (Qirtas), Faroe Islands (Sprotin), Finland (Blue Moon), France/Switzerland/ Luxembourg/Canada (Métailié), Germany/Switzerland/Austria (Verlagsgruppe Lübbe), Greece (Metachmio), Hungary (Animus), Israel (Keter), Italy (Ugo Guanda), Japan (Tokyo Sogensha), Korea (Open Books), Latvia (Apgads Mansards), Lithuania (Baltos Lankos), Macedonia (Tri), The Netherlands/Belgium/ Luxembourg (Uitgeverij Q), Norway (Cappelen Damm), Poland (Foksal), Portugal (Porto Editores), Romania (Trei), Russia (Corpus), Serbia (Booka), Slovenia (Didakta), Spain/ Andorra/South and Central America/USA (RBA Libros), Sweden (Norstedts/Prisma), Turkey (Dogan), Taiwan (Crown), Thailand (Pearl), UK/Australia/ New Zealand/South-Africa (Random House/Harvill Secker), USA/Philippines (St. Martin’s Press/Thomas Dunne Books), Vietnam (Alphabooks)
among numerous awards • 2016 Honyaku Mystery Award, Japan • 2013 RBA’s International Crime Novel Award, Spain • 2008 The Barry Award, USA • 2008 The Icelandic Crime Novel Award • 2005 The CWA Gold Dagger Award, UK • 2005 The Martin Beck Award, Sweden • 2002 & 2003 The Glass Key, the Nordic Crime Novel Award • 2003 The Swedish Caliber Award
Ragnar Jónasson
Yrsa Sigurðardóttir
The Hole Gatið
The Mist Mistur
“… an exciting, skilfully plotted and written crime novel that touches on burning contemporary issues.” Fréttablaðið
English sample translation available
Yrsa Sigurðardóttir has a talent for surprising her readers at every turn of page, both when it comes to subject matter and stylistic approach. And every page is packed with suspense. In The Hole, an investor is discovered dead in a lava field and a search of the man’s apartment reveals a young boy no one seems to know who is. The reader follows the efforts of the trio Huldar, a police detective, Erla, his boss, and Freyja, a psychologist at the Children’s Services, as they try to investigate the matter. The masterfully woven plot and the skilfully formed characters are the surface of the story; underneath is a bubbling cauldron of issues the whole world has been debating and discussing for lately. The case turns out to involve genderbased violence, which speaks directly to the #metoo-discourse and adds yet another interesting layer to this complex narrative, making it a work of suspense that critics have acclaimed as one of Yrsa’s best to date. Yrsa Sigurðardóttir (b. 1963) is the author of the award-winning Þóra Guðmundsdóttir series and several stand-alone thrillers, and is to date translated into more than 30 languages. Universally hailed as one of the finest crime writers of our time, Yrsa Sigurðardóttir’s new series, about the psychologist Freyja and the police officer Huldar, shows a master storyteller at the top of her game. The Hole is the fourth installment in Yrsa Sigurdardóttir’s series about Freyja and Huldar.
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“An exciting and well plotted story, without a doubt the author’s best book.” Fréttablaðið
publishing details Thriller 360 pp 2017
The novels of Ragnar Jónsson are already popular and widely read in several countries and so this, widely proclaimed his best to date, is most certainly a welcome addition to the world’s library. The Mist is the story of an elderly couple who live in a remote township in Iceland. Out of a thick snowstorm, a foreigner arrives in the town on the day before Christmas Eve. Little by little, the woman’s suspicions are aroused and she feels the man is not who he claims to be. As the tension grows, we follow Hulda, the policewoman whom Ragnar’s reads have come to know and love, as she seeks to unravel the mystery. At times The Mist crosses over into the supernatural and plays tricks on the reader. Goosebumps will surely appear as you delve into this dense and dark thriller, which showcases Ragnar’s skill and stylistic mastery of the genre.
publisher Veröld Publishing rights Salomonsson Agency Federico Ambrosini federico@salomonssonagency. com foreign sales of previous titles Bulgaria (Emas), Czech Republic (Metafora), Estonia (Varrak), Finland (Otava), Germany (BTB/Random House), Greece (Metaichmio), Hungary (Animus), Italy (Mondadori), Korea (Taurus Books), Latvia (Zvaigzne), Macedonia (Antolog), The Netherlands (Cargo), Norway (Kagge), Portugal (Quetzal/ Sonia Draga), Romania (Editura Trei), Turkey (Koridor), USA (St. Martin’s Press)
awards & nominations • 2018 Longlisted for the International Dublin Literary Award • 2017, 2016, 2013, 2012, 2010, 2009, 2008 & 2007 Nominated for The Drop of Blood, Iceland • 2017 & 2016 Shortlisted for LovelyBooks’ Der Leserpreis • 2017 & 2014 Shortlisted for the Petrona Award • 2016 The Danish Academy of Crime Writers’ Award • 2015 & 2011 Awarded The Drop of Blood, Iceland • 2015 The Petrona Award • 2016 Shortlisted for the Mörda Award • 2014 & 2011 Nominated for the Glass Key
Books from Iceland 2018
Ragnar Jónasson (b. 1976) was born in Reykjavík, Iceland, where he works as a writer and a lawyer. From the age of 17, Ragnar has translated 14 Agatha Christie novels into Icelandic. He also teaches copyright law at Reykjavík University and has worked in radio and television, including a stint as a TV news reporter for the Icelandic National Broadcasting Service. Ragnar is a member of the UK Crime Writers’ Association (CWA) and he is also the co-founder of the Reykjavík International crime writing festival Iceland Noir. Ragnar lives in Reykjavík with his wife and young daughters.
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Crime Fiction
publishing details Thriller 256 pp 2017 English sample translation available publisher Veröld Publishing rights Copenhagen Literary Agency Monica Gram monica@cphla.dk foreign sales of previous titles Armenia (Guitank Publishing), Australia, Croatia (Znanje), Czech Republic (Dobrovsky), Ethiopia (Hohe Publishing), France (La Martinière), Germany (S. Fischer Verlag), Italy (Marsilio Editori), Japan (Shogakukan Inc.), Korea (Bookplaza), Morocco, Poland (Wydawnictwo Amber), Portugal (20|20 Editora/Topseller), Slovenia (Didakta), Sweden (Modernista), Turkey (Andante), UK (Michael Joseph/Penguin/Orenda Books), US (St. Martin’s Press), TV rights (On the Corner/UK)
awards & nominations • 2010–2017 Nominated for The Drop of Blood Iceland • 2016 The Mörda Award (Captivating Crime in Translation) UK • 2016 Winner of the Dead Good Reader Award: The Sunday Express • 2016 Best New Crime And Thrillers: The Daily Express
Sólveig Pálsdóttir
Stefán Máni
The Shadows Skuggarnir
As often before, the author plays around with elements of Icelandic folklore, superstition and the supernatural.
publishing details Crime Fiction 316 pp 2017
“A new star in the constellation of Icelandic crime writers.” Taschenbuch-Magazin
publishing details Crime fiction 288 pp 2017
It is fall and Kolbrún and Timmi are on a few days’ hike in the Icelandic highlands. The story moves between past and present during the walk and the readers gradually gets to know the characters and their past. As often before, the author plays around with elements of Icelandic folklore, superstition and the supernatural. The couple is plagued by nightmares and seemingly insignificant, yet sinister events haunt Kolbrún, who grows increasingly fearful as the hike progresses. The tension is palpable and no one knows what might be hidden in the wastelands; every sound seems to become magnified and they can’t be sure where these sounds originate. The Icelandic highlands make a perfect setting for unpleasant surprises, especially when the fog sneaks up on you and the reception on your phone seems unstable. This is a chilling ride on a mental rollercoaster, straight out of today’s Iceland.
English sample translation available
A young woman from Sri Lanka has been living in Iceland for some time. When the opportunity arises, she decides on a change of scene and takes a job in the countryside. Soon after arriving in her new surroundings, she realises that something is odd about the offer. This leads her to taking another job at a remote farm and things quickly get both mysterious and filled with suspense. The story is set in the isolation of the Icelandic countryside and framed by the harsh nature and unforgiving elements. The heroine encounters some rather colourful characters and there is no way of telling who can be trusted. All roads seem to be blocked, but then an expoliceman from Reykjavík arrives and seems to have a role to play in the events. This is the fourth suspense novel by an author who has already claimed her place among the most skilful crime writers of the country.
English sample translation available
Stefán Máni (b. 1970) has been writing and publishing novels since 1996. Prior to that time, he was working in the fishing industry in his hometown, Ólafsvík. At the age of 17 he dropped out of school, became a worker and traveled the world in search of rock and roll concerts and other adventures. He put all his belongings in a Russian station wagon and moved to Reykjavík to publish his first book, The Door on Black Mountain. His first major success, at home and abroad, was The Ship. Since then he has been writing a detective series and a young adult trilogy, as well as the occasional thriller and other work.
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The Fox Refurinn
publisher Sögur publishing rights Agentur Literatur Gudrun Hebel gudrun.hebel @agentur-literatur.de foreign sales of previous titles Australia (Pier9/Murdoch Books), Denmark (Gyldendal), France (Gallimard), Germany (Ullstein/Amazon Crossing), Italy (Marco Tropea), Poland (W.A.B.)
Sólveig Pálsdóttir (b. 1959) graduated from The Icelandic Drama School, did her B.A. in literary theory at The University of Iceland and qualified as a certified teacher at the Teacher’s College of Iceland. Sólveig appeared in several plays at the National Theatre and various independent theatre productions, did radio and TV drama and voiceovers, to name a few. She also spent several years as a radio programmer and worked on cultural projects periodically. Sólveig’s novels have received three nominations for the The Drop of Blood – Best Icelandic Crime Novel of the Year award. Her previous books have been critically acclaimed and two have been published in Germany. The Fox is Sólveig’s fourth crime novel.
awards & nominations • 2014, 2013 & 2007 Awarded the Drop of Blood, Iceland • 2010 Awarded the crime fiction of the year by Liré • 2014 Awarded the Prix Des Lecteurs at Festival Du Polar • 2015, 2014, 2008 & 2006 Nominated for The Glass Key
Books from Iceland 2018
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Crime Fiction
publisher Salka Anna Lea Friðriksdóttir annalea@salka.is www.salka.is foreign sales of previous titles Germany (Aufbau Verlag)
awards & nominations • 2016, 2014 & 2013 Nominated for the Drop of Blood – Best Icelandic Crime Novel of the Year
Sigurður Pálsson
Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir
Poetry Remembers Voice Ljóð muna rödd
Scars Ör
publishing details Novel 201 pp 2016 English translation available publisher Benedikt Publishing www.benedikt.is rights Éditions Zulma Amélie Louat amelie.louat@zulma.fr
In this book of poems, Sigurður Pálsson addresses the basic elements of life: Earth, fire, air and water. The poems also deal with voices and shadows, darkness and light, white nights and sacred joy. Fantasy and creative forces battle destructive powers and death and the voice of the poet resounds in the mind of the reader, long after the book has been put aside. Poetry Remembers Voice is one of the most personal and powerful book of poems in Sigurður Pálsson body of work. Poetry Remembers Voice received The May Star, the poetry award for 2017 and was nominated for the Icelandic Literary Prize for 2016. The book has been translated into Danish and Norwegian.
Sigurður Pálsson (1948–2017) is one of Iceland’s greatest poets, prose writers and playwrights. He studied French in Toulouse and Paris 1967–1968, and Drama and Literature Studies at the Institut d’Etudes Théâtrales, Sorbonne, Paris, obtaining both maîtrise and D.E.A. degrees. Pálsson’s numerous awards include the Icelandic Literary Prize for his book A Notebook from Memory in 2007. His books of poetry have been translated into a number of languages, among them Bulgarian, Spanish, Italian, German and Chinese. In 1994 a bilingual edition of his poetry was published by Editions de la Différence in Paris, in 2013 the Jordanian publisher Azminah released a bilingual Arab-Icelandic selection of his poems, and in 2014 Arc Publications in the UK published a bilingual selection as well. Pálsson translated over twenty titles from French into Icelandic, including works by Albert Camus, Patrick Modiano and Jacques Prévert. He has also translated two plays by Arthur Miller into Icelandic. In 2017, the president of Iceland presented Sigurður Pálsson with the Icelandic Order of the Falcon, for his contribution to Icelandic literature and culture. Sigurður Pálsson died in 2017.
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publishing details Poetry 82 pp 2016
The central theme of this novel, by the awardwinning author Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir, is scars – personal scars and the scars we inflict on others. Scars is a story about destruction and the rebirth of one man, as well as, perhaps, mankind as a whole. It is a riveting narrative in which cruelty may have many faces, but where the faces of love outnumber them. A middle-aged, do-it-yourself kind of guy has given up on life. He has been divorced for half a year and terribly lonely for quite a lot longer and Jónas Ebeneser has now reached the point where he’s eating breaded lamb chops straight out of the frying pan. His only daughter turned out to be fathered by someone else and his mother is slowly drifting into the land of dementia. He can do nothing about either of those things. He packs a suitcase with a rope and a power drill, buys a plane ticket to a country recently ravaged by warfare and embarks on a journey he has decided will be one way only. With an understated wit and warm sincerity, Auður Ava disarms her readers. This is a book with an obvious message for today, in an era where humanity doesn’t seem to know how to stop being at war.
publisher Forlagið | JPV The Forlagid Rights Agency Valgerður Benediktsdóttir vala@forlagid.is www.forlagid.is rights sold Denmark (Vandkunsten), Germany (Eilif Verlag), Norway (Nordsjøforlaget)
awards & nominations • 2017 The May Star, the Icelandic poetry prize • 2017 The Knight's Cross of the Icelandic Order of the Falcon, for his contribution to Icelandic literature and culture • 2016, 2001 & 1995 Nominated for the Icelandic Literary Prize • 2016 The Jónas Hallgrímsson Award • 2009 Gríman the Icelandic Theatre Award: Playwriter & Play of the year • 2008 Chevalier de l´Ordre du Mérite: For his valuable contribution to introducing French culture in Iceland • 2007 Chevalier de l’Ordre National du Mérite • 2007 The Icelandic Literary Prize: Minnisbók • 2001 The Icelandic Booksellers' Prize for Poetry • 1999 The National Broadcasting Service´s Writer´s Prize • 1993 Nominated for the Nordic Council Literature Prize • 1990 Named Chavelier de l´Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (A Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters) by the French government. • 1987–1990 Reykjavík City Artist
Icelandic nominations for the
Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir (b. 1958) addresses all the most important questions we, as human beings, must ask ourselves – questions about life, death and love itself, the most important thing of all. Auður Ava has written novels, plays and poetry and is lyricist for the pop band Milkywhale. She has received various awards for her novels and is translated into many languages. Auður Ava received the Icelandic Literary Prize 2016 for Scars.
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rights sold Denmark (Batzer & Co.), France (Zulma), Hungary (Polar Publishing), Italy (Einaudi), Norway (Pax Forlag), Portugal (Quetzal), Spain (Alfaguara), South Korea (Hangilsa), Sweden (Weyler förlag), Turkey (Nebula), UK (Pushkin Press), USA/Canada (Grove Atlantic) foreign sales of previous titles Brazil (Alfaguara), Bulgaria (Colibri, Culture), China (Beijing Red Dot), Croatia (Ljevak), Czech Republic (Albatros Media), Denmark (Batzer & Co.), English world rights (Amazon Crossing), Ethiopia (Hohe Publishers), France (Zulma), Germany (Suhrkamp/Insel), Israel (Xargol Books), Italy (Einaudi), Latvia (Janis Roze), Macedonia (Antolog Books), Netherlands (De Bezige Bij), Norway (Pax Forlag), Portugal (Marcador), Romania (Pandora), Slovaquia (Slovart), South Korea (Jae Seung), Spain (Alfaguara), Sweden (Weyler förlag), Taiwan (Aquarius), Turkey (Pinhan), UK (Pushkin Press), USA/Canada (Grove Atlantic).
awards & nominations • 2018 Nominated for the Nordic Council Literature Prize • 2016 The Icelandic Literary Prize • 2016 The Icelandic Booksellers Prize • 2011 The Prix des libraires du Québec • 2010 The Prix de Page • 2008 The DV Cultural Prize for Literature • 2008 The Icelandic Women’s Literature Prize • 2004 The Tómas Guðmundsson Literature Prize
Nordic Council Literature Prize 2018
The Icelandic Literary Prize Fiction Kristín Eiríksdóttir
Misc. Elín, ýmislegt
Forlagið publishing | JPV
The Icelandic Women’s Literature Prize
The Icelandic Bookseller’s Literary Prize
Fiction Kristín Eiríksdóttir
Fiction Jón Kalman Stefánsson
Forlagið publishing | JPV
Benedikt publishing
Misc. Elín, ýmislegt
Children’s and Young Adult Books Áslaug Jónsdóttir, Rakel Helmsdal and Kalle Güettler
Children’s and Young Adult Books Kristín Helga Gunnarsdóttir
Forlagið publishing | Mál & menning
The Story of Ásta Saga Ástu
Non-Fiction Steinunn Kristjánsdóttir
Monsters in Trouble Skrímsli í vanda
Be Invisible – the Story of Ishmael’s Escape Vertu ósýnilegur – Flóttasaga Ishmaels Forlagið publishing | Mál & menning
The Search for the Monasteries – Five Hundred Years of Monasticism in Iceland Leitin að klaustrunum – klausturhald á Íslandi í fimm aldir
Non-Fiction Unnur Þóra Jökulsdóttir
Non-Fiction Unnur Þóra Jökulsdóttir
Young Adult Books Kristín Helga Gunnarsdóttir
Forlagið publishing | Mál & menning
Forlagið publishing | Mál & menning
The Wonder of Mývatn Undur Mývatns
The Wonder of Mývatn Undur Mývatns
The Hagþenkir Non-fiction Prize Steinunn Kristjánsdóttir
The Search for the Monasteries – Five Hundred Years of Monasticism in Iceland Leitin að klaustrunum – klausturhald á Íslandi í fimm aldir Sögufélag publishing
Sögufélag publishing
Be Invisible – the Story of Ishmael’s Escape Vertu ósýnilegur – Flóttasaga Ishmaels Forlagið publishing | Mál & menning
Children’s Books Hjörleifur Hjartarson & Rán Flygenring
Birds Fuglar
Angústúra publishing Biography Þorvaldur Kristinsson
Helgi Tómasson – a Memoir of a Dancer Helgi – Minningar Helga Tómassonar Bjartur Publishing Poetry Fríða Ísberg
Stretch Marks Slitförin
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Partus Press
Icelandic Literature Prizes 2017
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Icelandic Literature Prizes 2017
Icelandic Literature Center Hverfisgata 54 101 Reykjavík Iceland
+354 552 85 00 islit@islit.is www.islit.is
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