Literature

Arts & culture Webpick

Finnish author Minna Canth could, and she did

During her wide-ranging and consequential career, Minna Canth advocated for women’s rights and social causes. Her legacy continues; Minna Canth Day is celebrated annually on her birthday, March 19.

Arts & culture Literature

Runeberg: a patriotic 19th-century rapper

The work of Finland’s national poet, J.L. Runeberg, is often compared to that of the great European romantic poets. Nonetheless, many also know him because of a cake invented by his wife and later named after him.

Arts & culture Literature

Finnish author writes memories of the future

With elements of sci-fi and mystery, Emmi Itäranta’s book Memory of Water takes place in the future but comments on the present.

Arts & culture Literature

Alternative Kalevala in the making

The Finnish national epic Kalevala leans on Christianity – how about another Kalevala based on bear cults and shamanism?

Life & society Cuisine

A Finnish poet and his pastry

Runeberg Day is February 5: Can our New York reporter re-create Runeberg cakes and convey their significance to the Americans?

Arts & culture Literature

Finnish author explores limits and truth

We meet Riikka Pulkkinen, whose novels earn her a place in the upper ranks of young Finnish authors.

Arts & culture Literature

Finnish writer’s youth fiction wins fans

Young Finnish author Salla Simukka is winning over youth-fiction fans worldwide with her Snow White trilogy.

Arts & culture Literature

Finnish literature surges to the front

Finland’s cool, unique, multifaceted literature becomes the focus of the world’s biggest book fair in Frankfurt.