Herman

Straight away when you start reading this book, you notice Saabye Christensen's wonderful language. He creates a wonderful and melancholic atmosphere with his words, and this is his best ability. I've read most of his books, and he is probably Norway's best contemporary author. His stories all centre on the Oslo where he grew up, and its like a journey back into the real Norway, unlike the hellhole Norway has become today. The story centres on little Herman, who as still a child on the verge of puberty starts loosing his hair. Many both sad and amusing situations arise from this, all very in the spirit of Christensen's other books. I especially enjoyed the parts where the relationship between Herman and his grandfather, very beautiful and it made me smile many times. Saabye Christensen is probably the best Norwegian author when it comes to describing childhood from the viewpoint of the child, along with Tarjei Vesaas. A beautiful book that was also made into a good movie with the same name. Recommended! (I read a different edition)

A very interesting exposition on Norwegian culture is perhaps the lesser strength of 'Hermann'. More importantly is this book more moving, uplifting and entertaining than much else that can be read about Norway. I'd recommend this to those who have no interest in Scandinavia and would suggest it as a must-read for those who have.

Herman is a wonderful story about a young boy in Oslo, Norway, who start losing his hair. And there`s this little girl with the most outstandig read hair that he falls in love with. It`s a most charming story, and I`ve read the book twice and seen the movie three times, and I`ve named my first son Herman.