Praise
Barbara Harrison
Reviewed in the United States on April 9, 2025
Allow an afternoon or a lifetime, depending on how deeply you wish to dive into the quirky central region of Norway known as Trøndelag. This is one contemporary guidebook that lives up to its subtitle with guides to the land, the people, the language, and dating in the region.
What stands out most is the book’s impressive breadth—covering everything from dialect breakdowns and dry humour, to skiing traditions, weather quirks, and cultural etiquette.
With over 40 chapters and bonus sections, Winther offers an expansive, immersive look into Trønder life that is both informative and entertaining.
The book’s greatest joy lies in its tone: witty, playful, and self-aware. Winther’s voice shines through in every anecdote, making readers feel like they’re receiving a local’s personal tour peppered with inside jokes.
Her mastery of cultural nuance—especially the delicate art of understatement and the infamous Law of Jante—adds depth beyond the laughs.
The inclusion of dialect dictionaries, crash courses, and whimsical illustrations brings added texture and accessibility.
A minor critique is that at times, the whimsical style edges toward over-explanation, which may overwhelm readers seeking a quicker read. A tighter narrative could enhance clarity in places.
Still, this book is a delightful guide for travellers, expats, or anyone curious about Norway’s quirkiest corner.
A very nice book! As a foreigner who has been living in Trøndelag for eight years, I found it really entertaining. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a light and pleasant read – especially for those of us who’ve come to know Trøndelag from the inside.