Three of our authors are on the shortlist for the European Union Prize for Literature 2021 shortlist!

ICELANDIC WINNER:
Runaround
by Sigrun Palsdottir

A riveting story of a young Icelandic woman who takes fate into her own hands, steals a priceless historical artifact and somehow ends up in The Metropolitan Museum of New York.

A genuinely entertaining story, rich in thrilling plot twists and incredible events, with an innovative and convincing portrayal of society in Reykjavik and New York at the turn of the 20th century as a backdrop.

„An excellent novel, highly original.“
—RUV, Iceland Broadcasting Service

More info and sample translation here.

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Daughters by Benny Sif Isleifsdottir

A young woman in an isolated village at the start of the 20th century doesn’t have many options. Gratiana rejects the obligations placed on her and paves her own way through wit and determination.

A powerful story about a harsh life containing a vivid cast of characters and a protagonist that quickly wins the reader over, leaving them wanting for more.

“Especially well written … an impactful book and a fun read … hard to put down.”
—Frettabladid Daily

More info and sample translation here.

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Death of a Forest by Jonas Reynir Gunnarsson

It has been raining nonstop for several days when the forest slides down the hillside and Magnus’s life starts to fall apart. The fact that he doesn’t know how to deal with his problems in a healthy way doesn’t help at all.

An enchanting portrait of the surprising volatility of a quiet and ordinary life, and how grief and lack of communication can impact fragile family connections.

“An unusual but well-written novel that keeps the reader suspended in uncertainty throughout”
—Lestrarklefinn Blog

Sold to: Polar Könyvek (Hungary)

More info and sample translation here.

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See the full shortlist here.