In Forkbeard's Wake: Coasting Around Scandinavia (Flamingo)

Rating:
Summary: Interesting and quirky!
Review: As an American of Norwegian descent who was raised in England, I found this book very interesting. Nimmo tells his tale in a quite funny way (VERY British), and skillfully weaves in old tales of Viking history. He points out the oft-overlooked impact of Norse upon English custom and language. The descriptions of the natives of Scandinavia he runs into give the reader a taste for having spoken to them personally. His run-ins with various types are often absurdly humorous. If you have a passing interest in Scandinavia and/or its history, this is a great book to pick up. It's very readable: you'll fly right through his skilled prose. In terms of style, think of this book as a combination of Paul Theroux and Douglas Adams!

Rating:
Summary: Interesting and quirky!
Review: As an American of Norwegian descent who was raised in England, I found this book very interesting. Nimmo tells his tale in a quite funny way (VERY British), and skillfully weaves in old tales of Viking history. He points out the oft-overlooked impact of Norse upon English custom and language. The descriptions of the natives of Scandinavia he runs into give the reader a taste for having spoken to them personally. His run-ins with various types are often absurdly humorous. If you have a passing interest in Scandinavia and/or its history, this is a great book to pick up. It's very readable: you'll fly right through his skilled prose. In terms of style, think of this book as a combination of Paul Theroux and Douglas Adams!