Alda Sigmundsdóttir Book order (chronological)

PUBLICATION DATE: 5 April 2022As a young girl, Alda Sigmundsdóttir yearns to be close to her beautiful, distant mother, yet is never able to win her affection. When her parents divorce, a dark symbiosis between mother and daughter is forged, with devastating consequences that threaten to derail everything—especially Alda’s chance at intimacy and love.In this searingly honest memoir, the author of the beloved “Little Books” on Iceland tells the story of a childhood marred by trauma, the denial she employed to survive, and the struggle to regain her authentic self. In unpacking her personal history, Alda discovers the elusive nature of truth and its indispensable part in making us free. Inspiring, touching and brave, this book speaks to anyone who values emotional freedom and longs to break away from the destructive patterns of the past.

Christmas in Iceland is a vibrant celebration that unites the nation through festive traditions. Music fills the air, friends gather, and restaurants buzz with people enjoying special Yuletide offerings. The excitement of the season is encapsulated in the word "jólaskap," meaning "Christmas mood." Alda Sigmundsdóttir takes you on a journey through Iceland's enchanting Yuletide season, exploring unique foods, customs, and the colorful characters integral to the festivities. Her engaging narrative blends modern practices with the historical and cultural significance of enduring traditions. Discover the delights of smoked lamb, ptarmigan, and the essential Sarah Bernhardt cookies. Learn about the significance of Christmas lights during the dark winter months, family traditions, and the quirky customs that define Icelandic celebrations. Meet the whimsical figures of Grýla, Leppalúði, and the Yule Cat, and dive into the pyrotechnic madness of New Year's Eve. A cherished tradition in Iceland is gifting books during Christmas, which began during World War II when paper imports were less restricted. This custom has flourished, making Iceland the country with the highest book publication rate per capita, especially during the six weeks leading up to Christmas, known as jólabókaflóðið or the Christmas book flood.

Icelandic folklore is rich with tales of elves and hidden people residing in hills and rocks. Author Alda Sigmundsdóttir presents twenty translated elf stories, accompanied by intriguing contextual notes. While international media often portrays Icelanders' elf beliefs as quirky, these stories reveal deeper truths about a nation grappling with poverty and survival in a harsh landscape. The narratives reflect the struggles of a people enduring daily grief and hardship, nurturing a belief in a parallel world. This world of hidden people, often a projection of human dreams and desires, features homes filled with luxurious objects, beautiful clothing, and superior livestock. These beings possess supernatural abilities, including invisibility and foresight. For Icelanders, tales of elves and hidden people are woven into the cultural and psychological fabric of their identity, symbolizing resilience, hope, and endurance. This exploration delves into the significance of these stories, revealing how they encapsulate the essence of Icelandic life and the enduring spirit of its people.

50 miniature essays on the quirks and foibles of the Icelandic people