Best Norway History Books of 2025

Children of Ash and Elm: A History of the Vikings is a captivating and thought-provoking book that delves into the Viking Age on their own terms. The author, Jackson Crawford, uses the latest archaeological and textual evidence to present the Vikings' politics, religion, and material world. It is a refreshing take on a period that has been distorted throughout history. Crawford dismantles the stereotype of the Vikings and presents their complexity and ambiguity in a thrilling read. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Viking history and wants to gain a deeper understanding of their culture and influence.

The Wolf Age: The Vikings, the Anglo-Saxons and the Battle for the North Sea Empire by Tore Skeie is a thrilling account of the Viking-Anglo Saxon conflicts that provides a new perspective on the struggle for a North Sea empire. The author takes readers on a journey through the bloody shared history of England and Scandinavia, weaving sagas and skaldic poetry with breathless dramatization to bring the world of the Vikings and Anglo-Saxons to vivid life. This book is perfect for medieval history buffs and fans of Dan Jones, and it stands out as the first major book on Vikings by a Scandinavian author to be published in English. Overall, The Wolf Age is a well-researched and entertaining read that sheds new light on the goals, values, and motivations of the Vikings.

The DK Eyewitness Sweden (Travel Guide) offers a comprehensive guide to exploring the Nordic nation, from its bustling cities to its awe-inspiring natural wonders. With detailed maps, expert-led insights, and a wealth of photographs and hand-drawn illustrations, this guide is the perfect traveling companion for anyone looking to experience all that Sweden has to offer. The book includes easy-to-follow itineraries, advice on staying safe and getting around, and recommendations for the best places to eat, drink, shop, and stay. Overall, this guide is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Sweden and looking to make the most of their time there.

We Die Alone by David Howarth tells the remarkable true story of Jan Baalsrud, the only survivor of a team of Norwegian commandos betrayed and ambushed by the Nazis during World War II. Despite being frostbitten and snowblind, Baalsrud managed to escape and drag himself to a small arctic village, where the villagers risked their lives to save him. Howarth's writing is skillful and unvarnished, leaving a deep emotional impact on the reader. We Die Alone is a spine-chilling tale of heroism and endurance that will leave readers in awe of the human spirit's determination to survive against all odds.

The Last Place on Earth is a gripping and highly readable history book that explores the race to the South Pole between Britain's Robert Scott and Norway's Roald Amundsen, two of the most ambitious and complex men of their time. Huntford's account of their rivalry is based on the original Norwegian sources, making it unique among other works on the subject in the English language. The book is a part of the Modern Library Exploration series and offers a fascinating insight into the classical age of polar exploration. Overall, The Last Place on Earth is a must-read for anyone interested in polar exploration and the complex personalities that drove it.

The Almost Nearly Perfect People by Michael Booth is a humorous and informative travelogue that debunks the myth of the Scandinavian utopia. Booth, a journalist who has lived among the Scandinavians for more than a decade, embarks on a journey through all five Nordic countries to discover their quirks, foibles, and secrets of success. Along the way, he reveals a more nuanced, often darker picture of the region plagued by taboos, characterized by suffocating parochialism, and populated by extremists of various shades. The book offers a witty and revealing insight into the Nordic countries that challenges the Western media's rose-tinted view.

Resistance: The Underground War Against Hitler, 1939-1945 by Halik Kochanski is a groundbreaking history book that provides a comprehensive account of the many resistance movements against Nazi rule in Europe. Kochanski's prodigious research and balanced judgments offer a panoramic view of how small groups of ordinary people from different walks of life took actions that led to their own deaths and the liquidation of their families and entire communities. The book also covers the sheer variety of resistance activities, from the clandestine press to the more violent manifestations of resistance. Overall, Resistance is an essential read for anyone interested in the history of World War II and the fight against fascism.

Culture Smart! Norway is a valuable guide for anyone traveling to Norway for business or pleasure. The book provides insight into Norwegian customs, traditions, and values, as well as practical tips for communicating and making friends with Norwegians. The authors, Linda March and Margo Meyer, draw on their own experiences living in Norway to provide an authentic and informative perspective. The book also includes a chapter on doing business in Norway, making it a useful resource for professionals. Overall, Culture Smart! Norway is an engaging and informative read that will help visitors navigate Norwegian culture with confidence.

The Last Viking: The True Story of King Harald Hardrada is a thrilling account of the life of one of Norway's most legendary kings. Don Hollway vividly depicts the violence and spectacle of the late Viking era, taking the reader on a journey from the frozen wastelands of the North to the glittering towers of Byzantium and the passions of the Holy Land. Combining Norse sagas, Byzantine accounts, and Anglo-Saxon chronicles, Hollway weaves a masterful and pulse-pounding narrative that transports the reader into the middle of the action. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Norse history and the Viking era.

This book is a comprehensive guide to Norse Paganism, covering everything from mythology and magic to shamanism and Asatru folk practices. It delves into the history and evolution of Norse religion, exploring its pantheon, beliefs, and rituals. The author, Monica Roy, draws on her own experience and research to present the information in a clear and accessible manner. This book is ideal for anyone interested in learning about the ancient traditions and religious practices of the Norse people. Overall, it is an excellent resource for those seeking to expand their understanding of Norse Paganism.