Books Like...
Seven Brothers by Aleksis Kivi is a novel set in rural Finland, following the lives of the seven Jukola brothers who are left parentless after their mother's death. The story revolves around their boisterous and loyal nature, as they navigate through adulthood, facing challenges, bickering among themselves, and eventually maturing into responsible individuals. The narrative not only focuses on the brothers' adventures and internal relations but also serves as a parable about life in Finnish rural culture during the 19th century. The novel captures the essence of Finnish countryside life, depicting comical episodes, violent quarrels, and the brothers' journey towards maturity and self-discovery.
The book is praised for its modern feel, juxtaposing gritty dialogues with beautiful descriptions of the Finnish landscape in a lyrical tone. The character development, particularly the evolution of the seven brothers and the portrayal of strong female characters, adds depth and richness to the story. Despite being published in 1870, Seven Brothers is considered a classic in Finnish literature for its engaging plot, realistic portrayal of rural life, and its exploration of themes such as coming of age, rebellion, and redemption.
If you liked Seven Brothers, here are the top 2 books to read next:
- #1
Save:'The Unknown Soldier' by Vaino Linna is a dark and gritty novel set in 1941 during the Finnish Continuation War against the Soviet Union. The story follows a Finnish machine gun company as they fight along the border, aiming to push back the Russians and regain lost territory. The narrative delves into the messy, bloody, and horrifying realities of warfare, portraying the experiences of young soldiers facing the pointlessness of conflict. The book captures the struggles, sacrifices, and camaraderie of the soldiers, providing insight into the complexities of the war and the characters' evolving relationships amidst the chaos of battle.
The novel is a masterful portrayal of the Finnish soldiers' tenacious struggle against the overwhelming forces of Stalin's Red Army. Through a mix of comedy, tragedy, and farce, the author paints a poignant picture of ordinary men thrust into extraordinary circumstances, showcasing their bravery, resilience, and humanity amidst the brutal military setting. Linna's writing style is both accessible and deeply moving, offering a searingly honest depiction of the wartime experiences and emotions of the soldiers, making 'The Unknown Soldier' a compelling and immersive read.
As we all know, the Lord is almighty – he knows all and sees far. And so, one day, he let a forest fire burn a good swath of state land, laying waste to acres of the dry, pine forest around the town o... - #2
Save:'The Year of the Hare' by Arto Paasilinna follows the story of Kaarlo Vatanen, a journalist who hits a young hare with his car, leading to a drastic change in his life. Vatanen decides to leave his job and wife behind, embarking on a journey through the Finnish countryside with the hare as his companion. The narrative is a mix of adventure and introspection, as Vatanen encounters various eccentric characters and experiences while rediscovering himself in the wilderness. The writing style is described as quirky, amusing, and occasionally farcical, capturing the essence of Finnish culture and landscape with a touch of dark humor.
Two harassed men were driving down a lane. The setting sun was hurting their eyes through the dusty windshield. It was midsummer, but the landscape on this sandy byroad was slipping past their weary e...
