Much has now been written about hygge, lagom, fika and other takes on Scandinavian culture. Now that winter is here, this may be the perfect time to learn more about the Scandinavian countries and what makes each unique. This gorgeously illustrated, at times tongue in cheek, book is a good starting point. Subjects covered include style, food, the outdoors, family life, culture and celebrations. Enjoy your trip to Sweden, Norway and Denmark with Bronte Aurell; he makes quite a guide.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this read in exchange for an honest review.
From the publisher:
How to be more Danish
1. Wear black, a lot. From top to bottom. It shows off our (sometimes) blonde hair. Add a really big scarf. A black one.
2. Speak on your in-breath when you say ja (‘yes’), pronounced ‘yeah’.
3. Eat open sandwiches on very dark rye bread. Every day. Sandwiches were meant to be topless. Also, top your open cheese sandwich with strawberry jam.
How to be more Norwegian
1. Go for a hike (ut på tur, literally out on tour) every weekend, ideally somewhere hilly.
2. Always take a matpakke (packed lunch) wherever you go.
3. Every weekend and holiday, go to a hytte (cabin). Any cabin. A garden shed can be used as a replacement. This is called hyttetur (cabin tour)
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How to lagom
Lagom is the most important Swedish word you will ever learn. It goes deep into the make-up of every Swede, at home or abroad, and is part of being quintessentially Swedish. The word lagom is said to derive from the folk etymology in a phrase used in Viking times: laget om – meaning ‘around to the team’ – which was allegedly used to describe just how much mead one should drink when passing the horn around in the group. This etymology is commonly accepted to be right, although some parallels are made with the Law of Jante and the common set of rules about how much one should have of something.
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This cookbook’s photos are sure to make you hungry! Hopefully, they will also inspire you to try some of the recipes. There are suggestions for every meal of the day plus snacks. A few of the recipes included are for Mushroom Asparagus Quiche with Quinoa Crust, Vietnamese Chicken Lettuce Wraps, Skillet Zucchini Lasagna and Angel Hair Pasta with Herb Roasted Asparagus and Halibut. The book includes shopping lists and needed equipment. The recipes themselves appear to be clear and easy to follow. There are additional sections in the book on Measurement Conversions, Resources and References as well as an introduction that is packed with information. All in all, this looks like a great cookbook.
This anthology of poems by Joseph Coehlo is designed for elementary school aged children to read aloud. The poet has included poems that illustrate concepts, for example homophones, diminuendo, speaking quickly or speaking slowly. There are also action poems, poems that are meant to make one laugh and more. Throughout, the book has amusing illustrations. Hopefully children will enjoy picking up this one and will have fun reciting as they learn.
A take away message from this board book is that Muhammad Ali was “the greatest” both inside and outside of the boxing ring. The youngest listeners will learn about Ali’s decision to learn boxing and also his refusal to fight in a war. They will see that he also gave back by doing charitable work.
Soon, Cassius was learning how to box. He was not the strongest fighter, but he had a secret weapon.
Fight after fight, Cassius proved himself as an junior boxer. His talent took him to the Olympics in Rome, where he won a gold medal. But it was not enough! He dream of going professional.
Ali was admired and loved by people from all around the world. And when he retired, he gave all that love back, by working for charities and helping others.
Where I live, the weather is currently cold and the days are short. When Trace Elements takes place during a summer in Venice, it is as hot as hot can be. Clothes are sticking, meals need to be light and our detective, Guido Brunetti is mystified by the tourists who want to be in Venice at this miserable time. I could feel the heat and the need to drink mineral water. All of this is to say that Ms. Leon is a master at creating her scenes and characters. When Brunetti was eating his cheese and salad, I salivated. When I followed this essentially good man throughout the story, I wanted to know him and his colleagues as real people. When Brunetti was with his wife, Paola, I wanted a marriage like theirs. All of this adds verisimilitude to a novel that, in parts, is deeply tragic.
Mostly mystery with the addition of Graham Greene. Faith Martin book is free.
Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too! 