A Journey Through Finnish Fantasy: A Review of It Came From the North
As soon as I stumbled upon It Came From the North: An Anthology of Finnish Speculative Fiction, edited by Desirina Boskovich, I felt an irresistible pull to dive into the world of Finnish storytelling. Something about the very notion of Finnish speculative fiction whispered to me—a sense of the unfamiliar, blended with the magic that seems to inhabit the land of a thousand lakes. I couldn’t wait to explore what strange wonders awaited in these pages, and I wasn’t disappointed.
The anthology features a fascinating collection of fifteen stories that traverse the realms of fantasy and the uncanny, showcasing both established writers and rising stars in Finnish literature. Each tale is unique, rich with imagination, and steeped in a distinct cultural essence that resonates even in translation.
From the stirring to the whimsical, Boskovich has curated an impressive array of narratives that address key themes of connection—between humans, nature, and the fantastical beings that inhabit our dreams. A personal favorite was Carita Forsgren’s story about a photographer who stumbles upon a wounded troll. The tenderness with which the photographer treats this creature invites questions about humanity, empathy, and the interwoven fates of our worlds. I found myself reflecting on my own connections with those I might deem ‘other,’ and how our impulses to nurture can transcend the boundaries of the ordinary.
Another striking tale was from Johanna Sinisalo, where a lonely girl discovers the flames in her family’s smithy lead to an ancient portal. The imagery was vivid, and I could almost feel the warmth radiating from the pages, coupled with a sense of longing that permeated the writing. Sinisalo adeptly weaves folklore and contemporary themes, pulling readers into a delicate dance between the mundane and the magical.
The writing style across the anthology feels both lyrical and grounded, a testament to the layered complexities of each author’s voice. Some stories have a brisk, almost urgent pace that left me breathless, while others employed a more reflective tempo that allows the weight of their themes to sink in. This diversity creates a dynamic reading experience that kept me engaged from start to finish.
Memorable quotes popped out at me like little treasures, beckoning me to pause and absorb their implications. Many characters wrestle with their identity, their desires, and their understanding of reality, and their journeys became poignant mirrors reflecting my own thoughts and experiences. I couldn’t help but nod at the universal truths nestled amongst the whimsical settings.
This anthology is perfect for curious readers who delight in the enigmatic and the peculiar. Whether you are a seasoned aficionado of fantasy or simply someone seeking an escape into realms where the strange is commonplace, It Came From the North beckons with an open hand.
Reading this anthology reminded me of the beauty of cultural storytelling. The way these Finnish authors redefine genre conventions and delve into the fabric of their heritage left me yearning for more. Each story, a little piece of Finland, whispered tales of shadows and light, reminding me that magic is often a reflection of our deepest selves. If you seek to uncover the uncanny and embrace the splendor of imagination, I wholeheartedly recommend adding this anthology to your collection.
You can find It Came From the North: An Anthology of Finnish Speculative Fiction here >>