Child Wonder: A Novel

Dive into a poignant and unforgettable coming-of-age story with Roy Jacobsen's "Child Wonder: A Novel." This critically acclaimed book, originally published in 2011, offers a unique glimpse into the world through the innocent and perceptive eyes of young Finn, navigating life in a working-class suburb of Oslo, Norway, during the early 1960s. More than just a tale of childhood, "Child Wonder" explores themes of family, belonging, and the struggle to understand the complexities of the adult world. Jacobsen, a celebrated Norwegian author, masterfully captures the atmosphere of post-war Norway, a period of rebuilding and social change. "Child Wonder" delicately portrays the financial hardships faced by Finn and his mother, a single parent striving to make ends meet. The arrival of a lodger initially brings a sense of novelty and excitement to their small apartment. The new sofa, bought on installment, is more than just a piece of furniture; it's a symbol of hope and a better future. Finn finds a unique connection with the lodger and his television. The story takes an unexpected turn with the introduction of Finn's half-sister, a figure shrouded in mystery and perceived as "different." Finn embraces her with open arms, whisking her away to an idyllic summer on Hya Island. The descriptions of Hya are vivid and evocative, transporting the reader to a place of natural beauty and childlike wonder. It's during this summer that Finn's innocent perception of the world begins to crack, as he grapples with the incomprehensible reactions of the adults around him. He is unable to fathom how his sister could be considered so "different." The summer serves as a crucial backdrop to Finn's gradual understanding that the world isn't as perfect as he once perceived. The novel delicately unveils a painful secret harbored by Finn's mother, one that threatens to push them further apart. As the carefree days of summer fade and the adult world encroaches, Finn must confront the complexities of family dynamics, societal perceptions, and the secrets that shape their lives. Jacobsen's writing is characterized by its unsentimental yet deeply moving portrayal of childhood. He avoids saccharine nostalgia, instead presenting a realistic and nuanced view of Finn's experiences. "Child Wonder" has garnered significant praise, including the prestigious Norwegian Booksellers' Prize and selection as a Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers pick. The book is often praised for its literary merit, insightful character development, and ability to resonate with readers on an emotional level. It invites readers to reflect on their own childhood experiences and the challenges of growing up. "Child Wonder" is a moving and uplifting exploration of childhood, family, and the journey to understanding the adult world. Fans of literary fiction, coming-of-age stories, and Scandinavian literature will find this novel a rewarding read. Jacobsen is a well-respected and acclaimed author in Norway, with several of his works having been nominated for the Dublin IMPAC Award. This Original Edition paperback features 256 pages and is published by Graywolf Press.