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Literary Fiction· Norway

Out Stealing Horses

by Per Petterson
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 2003Norwegian
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About This Book

Few works of literary fiction have earned the sustained critical attention that Out Stealing Horses (2003) by Per Petterson continues to receive. In 'Out Stealing Horses', Per Petterson weaves a poignant tale of memory and loss. The novel follows Trond Sander, a 67-year-old man who reflects on his past, particularly a summer spent with his father in rural Norway. The book's exploration of themes such as solitude, the passage of time, and the impact of history on personal lives has resonated with readers globally. Themes of memory, loss, solitude run through the work. The book has received recognition from International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award 2007.

Book Details

AuthorPer Petterson
Published2003
Country of Origin🇳🇴 Norway
LanguageNorwegian
Category📖 Literary Fiction
ISBN9780312427085
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

📖 Literary Fiction

Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

Explore all Literary Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇳🇴 Norway

This book is part of Norway's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from Norway →

Editorial Assessment

Out Stealing Horses by Per Petterson sits within the tradition of literary fiction that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 2003 in Norway, it engages with memory, loss, solitude, father-son relationship in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. Among its recognitions: International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award 2007. With an editorial score of 30/100 drawn from 1 independent sources, the book occupies a well-documented position in the critical literature. Its recognition spans international prizes, "best of" lists, and academic surveys. The appeal of Out Stealing Horses lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of memory, loss, solitude, father-son relationship is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page. Within Norway's literary landscape, Per Petterson occupies a significant position. Out Stealing Horses is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

Guardian 100 Best Novels
list · global
20090
✍️
About the Author
Per Petterson
Norway
View Author →

Per Petterson is a Norway author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Out Stealing Horses about?

In 'Out Stealing Horses', Per Petterson weaves a poignant tale of memory and loss. The novel follows Trond Sander, a 67-year-old man who reflects on his past, particularly a summer spent with his father in rural Norway. The book's exploration of themes such as solitude, the passage of time, and the impact of history on personal lives has resonated with readers globally.

Who wrote Out Stealing Horses?

Out Stealing Horses was written by Per Petterson, from Norway. First published in 2003.

What awards has Out Stealing Horses won?

Out Stealing Horses has received the following recognition: International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award 2007.

Is Out Stealing Horses worth reading?

Out Stealing Horses is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in memory, loss, solitude.

Where can I buy Out Stealing Horses?

You can buy Out Stealing Horses on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is Out Stealing Horses?

Out Stealing Horses is classified as Literary Fiction. Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

What country is Out Stealing Horses from?

Out Stealing Horses originates from Norway's literary tradition. Explore more books from Norway on our country page.

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