Medieval Historical Fiction Novel of the Week
Saga: A Novel of Medieval Iceland by Jeff Janoda
Paperback - 360 pages
Publisher - Academy Chicago Publishers (May 2008)
Average Customer Review on Amazon - 5 stars (12 customer reviews)
Editorial Review from Booklist:
This detail-rich novel is a retelling of a thirteenth-century Icelandic saga written by an unknown author. The original document arose from the colonization of Iceland by Norwegian settlers, and this particular tale unfolds before the enticed reader’s eye as an intriguing concoction of abject realism (the day-to-day livelihood as practiced by the colonizers is explained, and the physical features of the land are beautifully described) and flights of fantasy (elves are coinhabitants of the Iceland presented here). The story line is essentially about land–who owns it, who disputes the ownership of it–in this hardscrabble agrarian society, where inheritance of land means everything, and honor (and necessary revenge against those who would besmirch it) is the essential tenet of life. Tribal organization and clan government are opened to contemporary viewing and appreciation. With the author’s ability to pump viability into the characters, the novel does what good historical fiction is supposed to do: put a face on history that is recognizable to us all. Brad Hooper
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved –This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
No excerpt available.
Medieval times are a fascinating period of history and one that lends itself to great historical fiction. Adding in Icelandic culture to the mix makes this something I will definitely keep an eye out for.
Another great period of history (IMHO) is the gold rush era of 19th century America. I’ve just finished reading “El Tigre” by John Manhold. It tells the story of Johann Heinrich von Manfred from his youth as a student in a Prussian military academy through his many exciting and dangerous adventures. It’s a fantastic insight into life in the 19th century Americas and carries all the great hallmarks of historical fiction - plenty of action, a dab of romance, a fluid pace and most importantly, historical accuracy. It’s well worth checking out!
Thanks, Peter. I’ll take a look at it.