- Little ones (0-7ish)
- Older ones (6-12ish)
- Parents and advanced readers (11 up)
That said, I’ve enjoyed reading the second category just for some cultural insights so maybe some older kids could tolerate it too.
Iceland Reading List for Kids
There is a dearth of Iceland-related fiction for kids, but here are a few for young kids. They focus on the magic of trolls and fairies that inhabit Iceland.
If your older child is into deep dives this highly rated book on the history, future, and politics of Cod by Mark Kurlansky might be fun.
Iceland Reading List for Grownups (or Very Advanced Kids)
One of my favorite books of all time leads off this reading list. Burial Rites: A Novel by Hannah Kent. It was a beautiful novel based on a horrifying true story. We visited the farm in Illugastaðir where the murders took place. Yrsa Sigurdardottir writes light, engaging detective novels that bring Icelandic culture into the mix in a fun way. Her two books, Last Rituals: A Novel of Suspense and My Soul to Take: A Novel of Iceland are worth reading. Independent People by Halldor Laxness is a critically acclaimed book that I couldn’t get into. I put it here because it is listed as a great work. I may just have failed in my discernment of excellent literature, but I am sure you’ll do better.
If you are a movie person you could watch the silly but entertaining The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.
Also check out this list that the Reykavik Grapevine just published this list of Icelandic movies recommended by Ísold Uggadóttir, a scriptwriter and director with a Master’s degree in directing from Columbia University.
What were your favorite books set in Iceland?
This is so helpful! Can’t wait to read Burial Rights…thanks!
I loved Burial Rites, too! Now planning to watch Walter Mitty — thanks for the great rec!!