SCANDINAVIA STRIKES AGAIN: THE SURPRISE BESTSELLER

By Jenny Nicholls

Of all the books in the list of Christmas bestsellers this year, one in particular stands out as unusual. Lars Mytting’s ‘Norwegian Wood: Chopping, Stacking and Drying Wood the Scandinavian Way’ has been an unexpected hit in the UK, reaching number 21 in the official chart in the week leading up to Christmas. Published by MacLehose Press in November 2015, it had to be reprinted four times in one month in order to keep up with demand.

The book (whose original title is ‘Hel Ved’) was a runaway success in its native Norway when it was published in 2011, selling over 300,000 copies and remaining in the bestsellers list for over a year. It even inspired a 12-hour-long TV programme – watched by around a fifth of the population – that showed a burning fireplace accompanied by commentaries about the process of preparing firewood.

So why has the book been such a success in the UK? After all, ‘Norwegian Wood’ does exactly what it says on the tin. It contains information and how-to guides on things such as selecting the best axe and chainsaw, building effective wood stacks, and the characteristics of different types of wood – knowledge that is neither commonly sought nor strictly necessary in this country of relatively mild and snow-free winters. Perhaps the real appeal instead lies in the book’s reflections on nature, trees, myths and legends, and above all, labouring in order to live self-sufficiently. Mytting comments that the book a very basic dream of human survival,” and his lyrical prose style (Mytting is first and foremost a novelist) perfectly evokes the forests of Norway. So forget those grisly Scandinavian crime thrillers, pick up this book instead and emopportunity to become an “armchair wood chopper!”

By Lucy Harkins

After having visited Paris for the very first time in 2013, I found that this beautiful capital city did not fail to exude that classic French charm captured by film directors in films such as Jeunet’s ‘Amélie’ or Godard’s ‘A Bout de Souffle’. I marvelled at the grand architectural allure of the Louvre, the brilliant contrast between the modern glass and traditional wrought iron structures, and the culinary reputation of France’s fine wine and distinct, artfully presented cuisine. All of these are typical associations with the lifestyle and culture of Northern France in particular.

However, this charming and appealing lifestyle does not just apply to the northern region of France. In fact, the southern region of France offers this too… and more. Colloquially known as ‘le Midi’, the South of France borders the Italian and Spanish coastlines, and so it is not surprising that it has an exciting mix of culture and heritage. The city of Nîmes in the Roussillon region, for example, is referred to as the ‘French Rome’ because of its foundation as a Roman village during the Roman Empire. About 230km east of Nîmes, you reach the beautiful coasts of the Côte d’Azur (aka. the French Riviera), including Saint Tropez and Nice, home to white sandy beaches and an azure blue sea (hence the name). During the 18th century, this region was considered a popular holiday spot for British and Russian aristocrats, and it is still a popular destination for the general public today. Thus, unlike Northern France’s charm and beauty, the South of France also has an element of luxury and leisure which allows one to escape from the busyness of work life. Moreover, the culturally rich region of Provence should not be ignored either, as it is one of the most beautiful regions in terms of its mountainous views and famous lavender fields, which were often painted by Cezanne.

It goes without saying that Southern France is a special destination full of character, life and charm. One should visit at least once in a lifetime, as it is a step away from the typical Parisian culture usually identified with France.