Winner (Children’s)
Title: Lost in the Fjord
Author: Jon Sveinsson
Publisher: Chaos To Order Publishing
ISBN: 978-0988656352
Pages: 140, Paperback/Kindle
Genre: Children’s Books
Reviewed by: Ella Vincent, Pacific Book Review
Book Review
Lost in the Fjord is an enchanting and inspiring tale. The story is about two Icelandic brothers who go on a boat into a world of adventure and love.
The story was first written in 1914 by Icelandic Jesuit priest Jon Sveinsson. Lost in the Fjord was so popular; it was translated into 40 languages, including this latest English version translated by Konrad J. Heuvers. In the book, Nonni and Manni are boys who venture out on a boat to a fjord (little island with steep cliffs). Nonni wants to prove that he is a Pied Piper of fish with his magic flute. While the trip starts as a fun fishing expedition, soon the boys are caught in a storm that threatens their lives. A sea monster only adds to the danger Nonni and Manni face. The boys depend on each other and faith to see them through the harrowing journey.
Lost in Fjord is a magical story with relatable and conscientious characters that children will love. Nonni is a selfless brother who protects Manni throughout the novel. Manni is mischievous, but listens to the wisdom of his brother during their perilous boat ride. The characters are adventurous, but thoughtful children.
In addition to the likable characters in the novel, Lost in the Fjord has some of the beautiful settings a reader can imagine. The Arctic beauty of Iceland is captured effortlessly by Sveinsson. Even though Iceland has notoriously frosty weather, the book describes the fjords and the seas in such a way that readers will want to visit the picturesque country.
Lost in the Fjord tells a compelling story with such an uplifting message. In an entertaining way, the book conveys the message of the importance of kindness, friendship, and faith to young readers. Though this book may be best for readers ages 6-10, readers of any age will love this novel. The novel is ideal for readers who like Christian and inspirational books like The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Lost in the Fjord would make an excellent addition to any children’s fiction collection or as a Sunday school parable for young churchgoers.
Lost in the Fjord is a century-old story, but the message is timeless. Young readers will enjoy reading this novel about Nonni and Manni as they explore around Europe. Jon Sveinsson has created a legacy with his “Nonni stories’’ that will draw in readers not only in Iceland, but around the world.
