In just a couple of years, Linn Skåber has become one of Norway’s most-read authors. To Us from Our Elders went straight to No. 1 on the fiction bestseller list when published. With her previous two books, Being Young and Being Grown-Up, it might not come as a surprise that this book focuses on our oldest and wisest.
She has interviewed, observed, analyzed and written. As always, the prose is filled with warmth, humor, wisdom, sorrow and joy. Skåber’s unique pen and Lisa Aisato’s beautiful illustrations make these people come alive, and their lives are made clear and recognizable to us. And perhaps there is something to learn for us all.
The first two books were both huge bestsellers in Norway – rounding 100,000 copies for Being Young and 50,000 copies for Being Grown-Up – and been sold to many countries.
In a unique and personal way, she is able to get into the lives and thoughts of older people. The serious message is well seasoned with Skåber’s humor – the smile is never far away, even if there is seriousness in and around the thoughts surrounding the last stage of life.
Nettavisen
This is a goodt and enjoyable book, with some colourful characters you grow to love and feel sympathy for. Skåber has a good pen and a warm and funny look at the people among us. She is a clever observer and communicator, and Aisato’s illustrations work even better in this book
VG
What a lovely book! It gives us a valuable reminder both of what life was, and what life will be again…. It is warm and beautiful, vulnerable and sad, but also very funny. Linn Skåber writes with a light touch – it’s as if you can see the twinkle in her eye between the lines. Lisa Aisato’s illustrations are examples of great storytelling in themselves.
VG, on Being Grown-up
Neither my friends nor I were anything to write home about. We were happy about that. The pretty ones got married far too early.
Linn Skåber - quote from the book
What a debut! Skåber and Aisato have a rare mix of sweetness, poetic depth, and twisted humour.
Dagbladet, on Being Young
I’d never be able to survive out there in today’s society. I’d offend someone with my presence alone.
Linn Skåber - quote from the book
