Lavaland (2023)

“Lavaland is a substantive story despite the book not being particularly long. The subject is love in all its varied forms, but also loss, connection and disconnection, whether with oneself or others, one's environment and nature. The protagonist's journey frames the narrative, which simultaneously becomes her inner journey and a reckoning with life. There is much simmering beneath the surface, like nature preparing to erupt and the journey's destination is the cherished family cottage, which is about to fall prey to the forces of nature. Steinunn weaves a nuanced tapestry of text that captivates the reader from the beginning; the story is touching, and the emotions linger long after the reading is done. What is left unsaid is often as revealing as what is said, and, as in Steinunn's previous works, playful irony mixes with the vivid poetic characteristic of the text. Although Lavaland is in some ways an apocalyptic story, beauty prevails, and that is what remains most firmly imprinted on the reader's mind.”

What a beautiful, exciting, and compelling book [...]. It is very moving and truly embraces life in every possible and impossible way!

Lavaland is a true masterpiece. Once again, Steinunn has succeeded in creating a magnificent and unforgettable female character unlike any other.

... a masterpiece. One feels it upon reading LAVALAND that here writes an author at the peak of their career, a poet who has perfect control over both style and structure.

Steinunn's finest work to date.

Lavaland is a remarkable work about the trouble of being human.

Steinunn’s story world at its best … delightful reading from start to finish while the story also touches on many sensitive topics in a masterful way.

A masterpiece!

The profound affection for Icelandic nature radiates and glows within this book, just as it does in Steinunn Sigurdardottir's other works, through remarkably beautiful descriptions. A uniquely sensitive appreciation for the landscape is intricately woven into her entire body of work ... A reasonably attentive reader could likely recognize Sigurdardottir's style from outer space, distinguish her text from all the texts in the world, so unique and refined it is. It contains a suitable dose of whimsy and a bit of flair, irony, humor, and wordplay ... here is no doubt that "LAVALAND" has thoroughly found its place in Steinunn Sigurdardottir's oeuvre, where it sparkles and shines alongside the brightest stars.