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Independent People cover art

Independent People

Written by: Halldór Laxness
Narrated by: Michael Page
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Publisher's Summary

This magnificent novel - which secured for its author the 1955 Nobel Prize in Literature - is now available to contemporary American audiences. Although it is set in the early 20th century, it recalls both Iceland's medieval epics and such classics as Sigrid Undset's Kristin Lavransdatter. And if Bjartur of Summerhouses, the book's protagonist, is an ordinary sheep farmer, his flinty determination to achieve independence is genuinely heroic and, at the same time, terrifying and bleakly comic.

Having spent 18 years in humiliating servitude, Bjartur wants nothing more than to raise his flocks unbeholden to any man. But Bjartur's spirited daughter wants to live unbeholden to him. What ensues is a battle of wills that is by turns harsh and touching, elemental in its emotional intensity, and intimate in its homely detail. Vast in scope and deeply rewarding, Independent People is a masterpiece.

©1946 Halldór Laxness (P)2017 Tantor

What the critics say

"A huge, skaldic treat filled with satire, humor, pathos, cold weather and sheep." ( Publishers Weekly)

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What listeners say about Independent People

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    4 out of 5 stars
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Exceptional narration

This novel has wonderful character development so it’s easy to feel as though the story is taking place all around you. The plot moves at a good pace. My hesitation on giving the story a higher rating stems from my dislike of the main character (though I’m not sure the reader is suppose to like him).
I would have like a bit more closure on the plot of the youngest son.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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Dour and Hilarious

A harsh and witty take on the Nordic spirit, and the complexities that entangle all human lives, whether they be rich or poor.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Worth sticking with

There is beauty, humour, wit and social and political commentary woven into the dour fabric of this piece.
It demands of the reader and it pays back with interest.


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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars

Read this to get into an Iceland State of Mind

Enjoyed the book. Listened to book primary in preparation and to get inspired for upcoming Iceland Trip. Book was enjoyable, Narration was excellent.

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