Summer Light, and Then Comes the Night

In a village of four hundred souls, Stefánsson explores the conflict between human desire and destiny, between reality and imagination. Translated from the Icelandic by Philip Roughton.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 18 February 2021
Publisher: Quercus Publishing

"The Icelandic Dickens" is an international bestseller and recipient of the Icelandic Literature Prize. Written by Stefánsson, the novel captures the elemental grandeur of Cormac McCarthy, a renowned American author. Eileen Batttersby, T.L.S., in her review for the Irish Examiner, praises Stefánsson as a wonderful and exceptional writer, describing him as a timeless storyteller. Carsten Jensen, in his endorsement, acknowledges the power of small places to enlarge life. He suggests that sometimes, a distance from the world's tumult opens our hearts and dreams, allowing us to explore and appreciate the magic of the stars.

In a village of four hundred souls, the infinite light of an Icelandic summer ignites a sense of exploration among its inhabitants. Meanwhile, the eternal night of winter illuminates the enchanting beauty of the stars. The village becomes a microcosm of the age-old conflict between human desire and destiny, between the boundaries of reality and the limitless possibilities of the imagination. Stefánsson approaches this conflict with a blend of humor, poetry, and a tender empathy for human weaknesses. Through his storytelling, he delves into the profound question of why we exist at all.

"The Icelandic Dickens" has been beautifully translated from the Icelandic by Philip Roughton, ensuring that the essence of Stefánsson's writing is preserved in the English language. This captivating novel offers readers a unique and immersive experience, transporting them to a world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary and the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur. Whether you are a fan of literary fiction or simply seeking a thought-provoking and captivating read, "The Icelandic Dickens" is a must-read that will leave you pondering the mysteries of life and the power of storytelling.

Weight: 182g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780857059765