The finalists for the Icelandic Literary Prize 2024 and Blóðdropinn, the Icelandic Crime Award 2024, have been revealed! The Literary Prize celebrates outstanding works across three categories: Fiction, Non-Fiction, and Children’s & YA Literature.
Blóðdropinn shines a spotlight on the finest in Icelandic crime fiction, honoring gripping and imaginative works in this ever-popular genre.
RLA is proud to represent some of the finalists. You can explore the books and read the jury’s verdict on each of them here.
The Icelandic Literary Prize
Finalists in the category of fiction
Gerdur Kristny : Earthlight
Compelling poems exploring human destinies in the present and the past, where stark seriousness and sly humor collide. The finely wrought text fully harnesses the resonance and rhythm of the language, while vivid imagery expresses deep emotions.
Arnaldur Indridason: Journey’s End
An exceptionally well-crafted historical novel that presents a fresh and original perspective on the renowned poet [Jonas Hallgrimsson]. Interwoven with Jonas’s poetry and his final days are fragments of memories from his past, brought to life through masterfully written prose. The light and flowing style paints a picture that leaves no reader untouched.
Finalists in the category of children’s books and YA:
Saever Helgi Bragason (text) and Elias Runi (illustr.): The Wonder Cycle: Poop, Pee and Farts
An informative and entertaining book about a subject we all know but rarely discuss. The author skillfully and candidly educates the reader on familiar yet sensitive topics without making it awkward or dull, while also sharing fascinating and often quirky insights.
Ran Flygenring (text and illustr.): The Pond
A heartwarming and insightful story that touches on themes such as friendship, collaboration, and the environment, as well as what happens when things go wrong or spiral out of control. The book’s unique visual world enhances the narrative, and at times, the illustrations speak for themselves, making text unnecessary.
Embla Bachmann: The Crush Competition
A fast paced and exciting story full of energy and humor, exploring the funny side of competition for a first relationship and the importance of friendship.
Blóðdropinn, The Icelandic Crime Award: Finalist
Stefan Mani : Only Death Was a Witness
Detective Hordur Grimsson faces an ambiguous yet menacing threat in a gripping crime novel that unfolds into unexpected tension with action and a fast-paced narrative. The storytelling is vivid and impactful, with a well-crafted plot that keeps the reader hooked until the very end.
