The nominees for the Icelandic Literary Prize 2021 have been announced! We are immensely proud to find several of our authors on the shortlists, in various categories. Here they are, along with the jury’s comments.

FICTION
THE KING AND THE CLOCKMAKER by Arnaldur Indridason
“The author strikes a new tone here compared to his previous work by pivoting to historical fiction in which figures from Icelandic and Danish history carry the narrative. A tragic story of cruel fate, written with dedication to and respect for the historical figures in lovely, captivating prose that elicits sympathy and a strong emotional reaction from the reader.”
Sold to: France (Éditions Métailié)

SIXTY KILOS OF KNOCKOUTS by Hallgrimur Helgason
“The author’s strengths are on full display in the dazzling and laconic world of the herring factory floor, where a nation’s first steps out of turf huts reflect the protagonist’s desire for a better life and independence. A fish factory waltz where humor and heartbreak come together in the ruthless onslaught of time. This doesn’t feel like a standalone sequel to the award-winning work, but rather stands entirely on its own two feet.”
Sold to: Lithuania (Alma Litera)

OIL by Impostor Poets
“A spirited narrative about six women who rebel against conventional gender roles. A fascinating polemic on the shackles of convention and attempts to break the chains of the paternalistic mindset. The work is unusual in that six authors work together to tell a single story from the perspective of six women, who are all, however, connected among themselves in various ways. Despite the varying styles and distinct authorial voices, a strong, unified narrative emerges that discusses the pressing issues of our time.”

CHILDREN’S FICTION
INFERNO OF TIME by Arndis Thorarinsdottir
“An unlikely narrator takes readers on an informative journey. The illustrations lend the book a lot of life and make it a pleasure to read. The book tells the story of Iceland’s greatest literary treasures in an innovative way introducing young readers to the nation’s ancient manuscripts.”

HERE IS REYKJAVIK! by Margret Tryggvadottir and Linda Olafsdottir
“The book traces legendary trails, covering a vast amount of space and a number of years. The engaging illustrations make the book accessible for readers of all ages, creating an informative and entertaining reference book on Reykjavík.”

NON-FICTION
THE FARM BURNS – THE LAST EXECUTION IN ICELAND by Thorunn Valdimarsdottir
“A dazzling, intimate account put together from the most highly regarded source material, shedding new light on the events leading up to and following this chilling tragedy from the beginning of the 19th century. “The miseries multiply when the story is closely examined” is a fitting description of this read. The readers are brought along with the writer through the source material, quickly finding themselves racked with dread at the edge of the farmyard.”

VATNAJOKULL NATIONAL PARK by Snorri Baldursson
“The reader learns about glaciology and geology, the biosphere and magnificent natural features of the area of Vatnajokull, and their preservation. The main text, maps, diagrams and photographs paint a varied picture of the subject matter. The author leads the reader through the uniqueness of the Vatnajokull National Park in a clear and informative way, accompanied by beautiful imagery. A wonderful book.”