Petur Gunnarsson (b.1947) is among the most widely acclaimed authors of his generation, writer of best selling novels, poetry and essays.

Picture of the World

(Myndin af heiminum, 2000)

The creation of the world, of man - these are Petur Gunnarsson's themes in the first novel of a planned series called The Novel of Iceland. While the narrator probes fundamental questions, he has to tackle them in his own life too - creating an exciting and particularly rewarding story, told with the humour, depth and compassion which characterize Petur Gunnarsson's writing.

Coming Home

(Heimkoma, 1997)

After being in Australia for 25 years a divorced middle-aged photographer goes back home to Iceland, taking with him the bodies of his dead parents - and something more. Soon after his arrival he is caught up in the tangle of Icelandic legislation and tragi-comic affairs.

An artfully written story with delightful humour, containing all the ingredients which have made Gunnarsson one of the most popular authors in Iceland.

Tetralogy

Matchstick Man; I, me, mine; Dramatic Personae; Finale

(Punktur, punktur, komma, strik; ƒg, um mig, frá mér, til mín; Persónur og leikendur; Sagan öll, 1978-1986)

Gunnarsson's tetralogy tells the story of a boy growing up in Reykjavik in the post-war years, when the city is expanding and rural culture is being replaced by a more urbanized way of life. With his rich imaggery and brilliantly witty style, the author shows a profound understanding of modern Icelandic society. Part of this work has been filmed.

Sold to: France (Josef K.), Sweden (the first sequel)

"Gunnarsson has an entertaining style and one of the best things about Coming home is precisely the dialogue about new words and language itself. The story is amusing, especially the crazy plot that becomes the major force of the novel ... The novelist decides to take a fresh view of today and frequently he excels at it. The description of modern dancing was especially hilarious."

Icelandic State Radio, Channel 1