BORGARBÓKASAFNIÐ
Heiðrún Gréta Viktorsdóttir works as a specialist at Spöngin City Library and is completing a degree in Japanese language and culture at the University of Iceland. She appreciates books that evoke emotions and raise questions about existence and the nature of being human. During her summer holiday, Heiðrún plans to read Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi.
“I’m interested in Japanese literature, so Kawaguchi’s novel simply aligns with my interests,” Heiðrún says cheerfully when asked what sparked her interest in the book.
She says she is not familiar with Kawaguchi’s works, so this will be the first book she reads by him.
“But I’ve always noticed Kawaguchi’s book covers because they are so beautiful,” she adds. She has now finally taken the plunge and does not regret it, because after browsing Before the Coffee Gets Cold, it is clear the book shows promise. “Yes, it seems both easy to read and the kind of book that manages to touch the heartstrings. In other words: perfect for the holidays.”
Do you have a favorite author?
“Margaret Atwood,” Heiðrún replies without hesitation. “Her book The Handmaid’s Tale will probably always have a special place in my top five list.”
What about a favorite literary genre?
“I like literature that evokes emotions and raises questions about existence and the nature of being human,” she says, adding that it is a big plus if the story is gripping and has a feminist angle.
Do you read different books in summer than in winter?
“In winter I’m more into textbooks, naturally, since I study Japanese language and culture at the University of Iceland. Otherwise, there isn’t much difference between seasons for me. I usually have both a non-fiction book and a novel on hand and alternate between them depending on my mood.”
When Heiðrún is asked whether she has any memorable summer reading experiences, she looks amused.
“Oh yes. I clearly remember once when I was sunbathing in Spain in 36-degree heat reading The Girl from the Other Side: Siúil, a Rún,” she recalls. “I lay on my stomach, probably for about an hour, without putting on sunscreen and literally turned the color of Homeblest crackers. Completely unforgettable.”
She bursts out laughing at the thought of this.
Any current favorites?
“Yes, I recommend Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata,” she says. “It’s a fun, easy read and it raises really interesting questions about what kind of expectations modern society has of people.”
What about a book that has surprised you?
“Snakes and Earrings by Hitomi Kanehara. “I find the author’s use of metaphors in relation to the protagonist’s existential state very interesting. I don’t want to say too much, but I definitely recommend it.”