By Emma Raymond
Scandinavian crime novels have been finding themselves on our book shelves more and more frequently in recent years, with the goliath names of Stieg Larsson, Jo Nesbo and the like rolling off the tongue of those in the know. Gritty, deadpan and developing at breakneck speed, their works are everything that Jonas Jonasson’s latest novel isn’t, and it’s fantastic.
Scandinavian crime novels have been finding themselves on our book shelves more and more frequently in recent years, with the goliath names of Stieg Larsson, Jo Nesbo and the like rolling off the tongue of those in the know. Gritty, deadpan and developing at breakneck speed, their works are everything that Jonas Jonasson’s latest novel isn’t, and it’s fantastic.
The novel charts the life and course of the blunt and pragmatic protagonist Alan Karlsson, a centenarian dynamite expert on the run from his nursing home in nothing but his slippers and daywear. The plot unfolds at a pace befitting the Swede’s whirlwind getaway from the law enforcers who are trying to apprehend and impound him again. Stirring and generally being in the vicinity of trouble is a common issue for Alan, and not only on his initial escape from Sweden’s murderous biker gangs; we gradually learn that Alan’s whole life has been one thrilling exploit after another.
Armed with a mystery suitcase, an accomplice or two, and an uncanny ability to leave a situation in the least likely way possible, Alan’s journey is page turningly compelling, and filled with a wonderful cast of charismatic supporting characters. A book that will have you stifling a chortle immediately before grimacing at an unforeseen but exhilarating twist, this novel offers a reinvigoration of the modern crime-mystery thriller. It provides laughter, entertaining historical context and contemplation in equal measure, without mortgaging a classic ‘cat and mouse’ storyline.
Alan is warm, witty and interesting, and the perfect companion with whom to share an adventure, not only to keep us chuckling, but also to consistently impress with his ability to resolve complex political and social scenarios. Wonderfully nuanced, Alan Karlsson is a character that everyone can relate to and fall in love with - he will leave an imprint on as many people who read of his escapades as those he encounters and charms in his vast and far reaching exploits.
His literary setting is also well balanced, as Jonasson carefully balances the tones of a number of different literary styles and atmospheres. At times whimsically philosophical, the narrative lures the reader into adopting carpe diem as their new mantra, before sharply and at times brutally reminding us that there is real peril threatening our troublesome Alan and it’s only a matter of time before he is caught up with. The 100 Year Old Man is less strap in and hold on and more settle down and savour an adventure that will make you question and re-think your preconceived notions of what a Scandinavian crime novel should be.
Click HERE to see our review of the film adaptation.
Armed with a mystery suitcase, an accomplice or two, and an uncanny ability to leave a situation in the least likely way possible, Alan’s journey is page turningly compelling, and filled with a wonderful cast of charismatic supporting characters. A book that will have you stifling a chortle immediately before grimacing at an unforeseen but exhilarating twist, this novel offers a reinvigoration of the modern crime-mystery thriller. It provides laughter, entertaining historical context and contemplation in equal measure, without mortgaging a classic ‘cat and mouse’ storyline.
Alan is warm, witty and interesting, and the perfect companion with whom to share an adventure, not only to keep us chuckling, but also to consistently impress with his ability to resolve complex political and social scenarios. Wonderfully nuanced, Alan Karlsson is a character that everyone can relate to and fall in love with - he will leave an imprint on as many people who read of his escapades as those he encounters and charms in his vast and far reaching exploits.
His literary setting is also well balanced, as Jonasson carefully balances the tones of a number of different literary styles and atmospheres. At times whimsically philosophical, the narrative lures the reader into adopting carpe diem as their new mantra, before sharply and at times brutally reminding us that there is real peril threatening our troublesome Alan and it’s only a matter of time before he is caught up with. The 100 Year Old Man is less strap in and hold on and more settle down and savour an adventure that will make you question and re-think your preconceived notions of what a Scandinavian crime novel should be.
Click HERE to see our review of the film adaptation.
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