Books Like...

Victoria by Knut Hamsun is a classic Norwegian novel that tells the tale of a miller's son, Johannes, and his unrequited love for Victoria, a woman born into a higher social class. Set in the 19th century, the story explores themes of social and economic class differences, forbidden love, and the complexities of relationships. Hamsun's writing style, characterized by stream of consciousness and interior monologue, delves into the psyche and soul of the characters, creating a timeless and compelling narrative that captures the authenticity of real relationships amidst societal restrictions.

In the mid 19th century, Isak walks far into the Norwegian wilderness looking for a good piece of land. When he finds it, he builds a hut, clears the trees, and farms the soil. Over the years he is joined by Inger, who becomes his wife, has several children, and builds one of the most impressive farms in the area with his own labor. The story follows the family as more people settle in the area, new technology comes to the farm, the children grow up, and Isak and Inger grow old. Isak remains dedicated to the traditional values of working the land throughout his life. The book depicts a homesteader's life in rural northern Norway in the 2nd half of the 19th century. The narrative captures the simplicity of rural existence and the impact of nature on humanity.

Hamsun's 'Growth of the Soil' is described as a beautifully written story that transcends time or place, providing a perspective on life and contentment. The book offers a nostalgic view of a simpler time and portrays the characters in a way that allows readers to discover their complexities. The writing style is praised for its simplicity yet ability to convey the nuances of relationships and the impact of nature on the characters' lives.

Set in Bruges, Belgium, 'Bruges-La-Morte' follows widower Hugues Viane as he mourns his deceased wife by turning his home into a shrine to her memory. When he encounters a woman who resembles his late wife, he becomes tragically obsessed with her, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. The novel is known for its atmospheric descriptions of Bruges, portraying the city as a melancholic and haunting backdrop that mirrors Viane's grief.

Barabbas by Par Lagerkvist is a fictional story that delves into the life of Barabbas, a notorious criminal spared by Pilate instead of Jesus. The novel explores Barabbas' spiritual struggle, his quest for faith, and the aftermath of Christ's crucifixion. Lagerkvist weaves a tale of darkness, despair, and hopelessness as Barabbas grapples with guilt, doubt, and the search for meaning in a world that has rejected Christ. Through vivid imagery and powerful insights, the author paints a poignant picture of a man caught between belief and disbelief, redemption and damnation.

The book offers a thought-provoking narrative on themes of forgiveness, faith, and the human condition. Lagerkvist's writing style is intense, sparse, and masterful, drawing readers into a world where the line between light and darkness, belief and doubt, is blurred. Barabbas' journey becomes a reflection of the eternal struggle faced by humanity in accepting the unseen, in finding solace in the midst of despair, and in seeking redemption in a world filled with uncertainty and turmoil.

'Doppler' by Erlend Loe is a captivating tale about Andreas Doppler, a man who decides to reject civilization to live in the forest after a life-changing event. The story revolves around Doppler's journey of self-discovery, anti-consumerism beliefs, and his unconventional relationships with nature, his family, and an elk calf named Bongo. The writing style is described as radiant, humorous, and thought-provoking, blending elements of humor, tragedy, and everyday bliss. The book challenges societal norms and encourages readers to reflect on their own beliefs and values through Doppler's unconventional actions and perspectives.

Death and the Dervish by Mesa Selimovic is a dense and philosophical novel set in Ottoman era Bosnia. The story follows Sheikh Ahmed Nuruddin, a dervish, as he navigates the injustice of his brother's arrest, facing a corrupt bureaucracy and his own moral dilemmas. The writing style is complex and beautiful, delving deep into the protagonist's thoughts and struggles, creating a sense of claustrophobia and constant questioning. The narrative is characterized by internal monologues, philosophical musings, and insights into human behavior, making it a challenging but rewarding read.

'Hunger' by Knut Hamsun is a gripping and emotionally evocative novel that follows the unnamed protagonist, a starving writer journalist, as he navigates extreme poverty and hunger in the streets of Oslo. The narrative delves into the protagonist's descent into madness, his struggles with pride and self-destruction, and his relentless pursuit of dignity amidst dire circumstances. The writing style is stark, intense, and primal, portraying the protagonist's inner turmoil and erratic behavior with vivid descriptions of near insanity and misery.

Despite the bleak and intense atmosphere, 'Hunger' is lauded for its ability to immerse readers in the protagonist's psyche, leading them through moments of sublime passion, despair, and defiance. The novel offers a compelling exploration of themes such as pride, honor, shame, self-deception, and the complexities of human irrationality. Through a stream of consciousness narrative, the book provides a chilling and uncompromising look at the harsh realities of literary life in Oslo at the turn of the twentieth century, making it a thought-provoking read for those contemplating a life in artistic pursuits.

Seize the Day by Saul Bellow is a short novella that follows the life of Tommy Wilhelm, a middle-aged man who is facing a day filled with despair, financial troubles, and self-reflection. The story delves into Wilhelm's struggles as a failed actor, husband, father, and son, as he navigates through a series of unfortunate events and bad decisions. The writing style of the book is described as muscular, intelligent, and keen in observations, capturing the overwhelming weight of a lifetime of choices in a single day.

The Warden by Anthony Trollope is the first novel in the Chronicles of Barsetshire series, set in mid-1800s England. The story revolves around Septimus Harding, a kind-hearted cleric who is accused of mishandling church funds meant for the elderly men under his care. The novel delves into the moral dilemma faced by Harding, the conflicts within his family, and the legal dispute that arises due to the distribution of charitable funds. Trollope's writing style is praised for its simplicity, directness, and subtle humor, offering a glimpse into Victorian society and politics through the lens of the characters in the fictional town of Barchester.