Best Books on Iceland (fiction and non-fiction)

A fantastic literary debut from Hannah Kent. This book is inspired by a true story about the final days of a woman accused of murder in Iceland in 1829.

This volume includes ten sagas and seven shorter tales set around the turn of the last millennium. If your interest is in Viking Sagas this book is for you!

Set in a quiet fishing village in northern Iceland this brilliant debut novel from Ragnar Jonasson will keep you enthralled until the very last terrifying page. Introducing Ari Thor the central character across The Dark Iceland Series this novel typifies the murder mystery genre in which the Nordic countries excel.

A true masterpiece of Icelandic fiction Independent People is a deeply rewarding novel. Written by  Nobel prize winning author Halldor Laxness Iceland’s most prolific author.

A fabulous book about Icelandic folklore. A folklore that is rife with tales of elves and hidden people that inhabited hills and rocks in the landscape. If you read this before you go you will know exactly what to look out for!

Another choice written by Iceland’s most well know author Halldor Laxness. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for literature in 1955.

This novel gives a great introduction to Iceland and in particular Reykjavik in the early 20th century.

I love Rick Steves and who better to have by your side as you hike vast glaciers, marvel at steaming volcanic lakes, and explore the land of the midnight sun!

Iceland is in the middle of a tourist boom and it if we are visiting we need to do it responsibly or we will end up destroying what is so special about it. This is an essential companion for anyone visiting the country and if you only buy one book before you visit this is the one!

Icelandic is one of the oldest languages in the world! This book will introduce you to its complexities and more (sections on slang and curse-words!) If you are interested in Icelandic culture and their language this is a must-read!

A light and humorous look at life in Iceland over the centuries!

A collection of 50 mini essays all about Icelanders – learn all about their quirks and foibles before you go!

Packed full of tips to ensure your trip to Iceland is as smooth as possible – written by Icelanders who should know what they are talking about!

Whether you’re looking to connect with your roots, try something new or already love Icelandic cooking, this book is a must for your cookbook shelf.  This is a collection of 25 traditional everyday Icelandic recipes, translated with step-by-step instructions.

Iceland is home to an utterly unique and captivating food scene, characterized by its distinctive indigenous ingredients, traditional farmers and artisanal producers, and wildly creative chefs and restaurants. Find out more in this cookbook and recreate some of the best dishes in your own kitchen!

A Kid's Guide to Iceland takes young readers (ages 9-12) on an exciting and colorful adventure to amazing Iceland and the Viking explorers who discovered it more than 1,000 years ago.

Travel diary for kids! Keep them occupied completing this travel diary during their trip!

Children and adults alike will love these short stories all about trolls, elves and the hidden people! Contains 25 short stories!