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Norway: Land of Fjords and the Northern Lights
Presented in a landscape format and with captions explaining the story behind each entry, Norway is a stunning collection of images celebrating this striking country.
Did you know that Oslo is the only capital city in Europe where you can go cross-country skiing? Just take your skis on the metro to the suburbs and ski off from the platform across the frozen, snowy landscape. Stretching so far from north to south, and from west to east—the country reaches further east than St. Petersburg—Norway has a larger number of different habitats than almost any other European country. It has Scandinavia’s most spectacular fjords, steep mountains, pretty fishing villages, beautiful beaches—and continental Europe’s largest glacier. From remote settlements within the Arctic Circle to Oslo’s lively city life, from the northern lights to the white nights when the sun never sets, from sculpture gardens to immense bridges linking the country’s many islands, Norway is a fascinating exploration of this increasingly popular tourist destination.
Did you know that Oslo is the only capital city in Europe where you can go cross-country skiing? Just take your skis on the metro to the suburbs and ski off from the platform across the frozen, snowy landscape. Stretching so far from north to south, and from west to east—the country reaches further east than St. Petersburg—Norway has a larger number of different habitats than almost any other European country. It has Scandinavia’s most spectacular fjords, steep mountains, pretty fishing villages, beautiful beaches—and continental Europe’s largest glacier. From remote settlements within the Arctic Circle to Oslo’s lively city life, from the northern lights to the white nights when the sun never sets, from sculpture gardens to immense bridges linking the country’s many islands, Norway is a fascinating exploration of this increasingly popular tourist destination.
224 pages, Hardcover
First published November 15, 2022
1 person is currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
Claudia Martin
276 books16 followersClaudia Martin is a prolific author of both non-fiction and fiction for children, young adults and adults. A freelance writer since 2008, she has written dozens of highly visual, engaging and informative titles, from encyclopedias and science books to mythology collections and world atlases.
Claudia also writes children’s fiction, including Epic Myths for Fearless Girls, the bestselling 16-book Greek Myths collection, and contributions to the Magical Rescue Vets series. For adult readers, she has authored beautifully illustrated non-fiction titles such as Great Destinations of a Lifetime, Italy, Scotland, Arctic, Greece, Norway, Wonders of the World and Rivers.
Before becoming a full-time author, Claudia worked extensively in publishing as an editor and commissioning editor, including roles at Marshall Editions, Cadogan Guides, Lonely Planet and Virgin Books. This background has given her a sharp editorial eye and a deep understanding of how to bring stories, facts and ideas vividly to life.
Originally from the UK and a graduate of the University of Bristol, Claudia continues to write, edit and develop engaging books that inspire curiosity, imagination and a love of learning in readers of all ages.
Claudia also writes children’s fiction, including Epic Myths for Fearless Girls, the bestselling 16-book Greek Myths collection, and contributions to the Magical Rescue Vets series. For adult readers, she has authored beautifully illustrated non-fiction titles such as Great Destinations of a Lifetime, Italy, Scotland, Arctic, Greece, Norway, Wonders of the World and Rivers.
Before becoming a full-time author, Claudia worked extensively in publishing as an editor and commissioning editor, including roles at Marshall Editions, Cadogan Guides, Lonely Planet and Virgin Books. This background has given her a sharp editorial eye and a deep understanding of how to bring stories, facts and ideas vividly to life.
Originally from the UK and a graduate of the University of Bristol, Claudia continues to write, edit and develop engaging books that inspire curiosity, imagination and a love of learning in readers of all ages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
December 30, 2024
Scandinavian compound words will be the death of me. Worry not, this book is very picture heavy. While I loved Sweden, and probably identify as a Dane, Norway looks the most picturesque and beautiful. To be fair, all of the Nordic countries have beautiful vistas, but looking at these fjords makes me want to book a trip. See you for the Northern Lights. Skål!
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Amber Books
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Amber Books
December 19, 2022
This book combines gorgeous photography as well as widely known and little known facts about Norway scattered throughout. A very enjoyable book. I thank Netgalley and Amber Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
February 19, 2023
Having recently read a few Norwegian novels, I’d grown curious about the land their authors had sprung from and was delighted to have my request for a digital copy of this book approved by Net Galley. This is a beautiful text, likely best appreciated as a coffee-table volume. There are some stunning photographs of natural wonders—particularly of the many deep fjords that extend the country’s coastline to 29,000 km/18,000 miles, making it the longest in Europe—as well as fine ocean views of several traditional towns and sea-facing sections of cities. Included, too, are photos of flora and fauna; statues, monuments, museums, buildings of historical, cultural, and architectural significance; fish markets and the fishing industry. Oslo gets its own chapter, with its distinctive neighbourhoods well represented. Unfortunately, a few of the images appeared quite dark on my iPad.
In reading this, I had hoped to gain a better sense of Norway’s counties and regions, but I only managed to do so by performing my own online map searches to connect names with locations. Why the author/editor Claudia Martin didn’t include a single map is beyond me. Another problem is that a few counties/jurisdictions had their boundaries adjusted and names changed in January 2020. For example, two former counties—Hordaland and Sogne og Fjordane— were merged to form Vestland (which is centred around Norway’s second largest city, Bergen, in the southwest). Likewise, at the beginning of the current decade, Finnmark was merged with the neighbouring county of Troms to form the new, most northerly county: Troms og Finnmark. Martin confusingly uses only the older county names throughout this book, which is apparently a reissue of the 2020 edition. The appropriate updates were not made.
There is some specialized vocabulary, as well: “vernacular” to describe architecture (I’d only ever heard or used the word in relation to language); “orthogonal” to describe a right-angled street layout; “staved” medieval churches, built of upright wooden planks; and “koine,” a common language that arises naturally when two languages or dialects mix.
I’ll leave off with a few interesting facts gleaned from this informative text:
• Norway has 1600 glaciers. (By comparison, according to the World Glacier Monitoring Service, Canada has 267 named glaciers. If the ice sheets of Antarctica and Greenland are excluded, however, Canada has more glacier cover than any other nation on Earth—roughly 200,000 square kilometres.)
• Most fjords are deeper than the coastal sea into which they empty. (Lysefjord, for example, is up to 30 times as deep as the water at the sea end.) Fjords have shallow “sills”—underwater ridges—at their mouths, which were formed from the collected debris of the grinding glaciers that created the steep inlets.
• The centre of the tiny village of Ulvik, situated at the end of a sidearm of Hardangerfjord, a major fjord in Vestland, was burned down by the Germans in 1940, in retaliation against Norwegian resistance fighters. (If I ever knew that German warships had used the fjords to penetrate the interior of the country, I’d completely forgotten.)
• There are approximately 55,000 islands off Norway’s coastline, most of which are columns of rock—i.e, “stacks”—populated only by seabirds.
• Norway has sovereignty over the Svalbard Archipelago, 930 km/580 miles north of Tromsø and well north of the Arctic Circle. The world’s most northerly town, Longyearbyen (named for an American mining magnate), is found on the largest island, Spitsbergen. Longyearbyen has a permanent population of 2100, of which 60% are male. There are very few people over 65. In fact, a person is only allowed to live there if he’s employed in the place—mining dominates—or if he’s independently wealthy. Otherwise, he’s deported.
• The abandoned Russian ghost settlement of Pyramiden is also found on Spitsbergen. The Russians extracted coal in the area from 1910 to 1998. When they left, they didn’t take their statue of Lenin. It still stands. Tourism to this site is now being encouraged! Yes, really. The hotel has been cleaned up and reopened.
Overall, I found this book visually pleasing and informative, but there are some problems with it. I recommend it—with a few reservations.
In reading this, I had hoped to gain a better sense of Norway’s counties and regions, but I only managed to do so by performing my own online map searches to connect names with locations. Why the author/editor Claudia Martin didn’t include a single map is beyond me. Another problem is that a few counties/jurisdictions had their boundaries adjusted and names changed in January 2020. For example, two former counties—Hordaland and Sogne og Fjordane— were merged to form Vestland (which is centred around Norway’s second largest city, Bergen, in the southwest). Likewise, at the beginning of the current decade, Finnmark was merged with the neighbouring county of Troms to form the new, most northerly county: Troms og Finnmark. Martin confusingly uses only the older county names throughout this book, which is apparently a reissue of the 2020 edition. The appropriate updates were not made.
There is some specialized vocabulary, as well: “vernacular” to describe architecture (I’d only ever heard or used the word in relation to language); “orthogonal” to describe a right-angled street layout; “staved” medieval churches, built of upright wooden planks; and “koine,” a common language that arises naturally when two languages or dialects mix.
I’ll leave off with a few interesting facts gleaned from this informative text:
• Norway has 1600 glaciers. (By comparison, according to the World Glacier Monitoring Service, Canada has 267 named glaciers. If the ice sheets of Antarctica and Greenland are excluded, however, Canada has more glacier cover than any other nation on Earth—roughly 200,000 square kilometres.)
• Most fjords are deeper than the coastal sea into which they empty. (Lysefjord, for example, is up to 30 times as deep as the water at the sea end.) Fjords have shallow “sills”—underwater ridges—at their mouths, which were formed from the collected debris of the grinding glaciers that created the steep inlets.
• The centre of the tiny village of Ulvik, situated at the end of a sidearm of Hardangerfjord, a major fjord in Vestland, was burned down by the Germans in 1940, in retaliation against Norwegian resistance fighters. (If I ever knew that German warships had used the fjords to penetrate the interior of the country, I’d completely forgotten.)
• There are approximately 55,000 islands off Norway’s coastline, most of which are columns of rock—i.e, “stacks”—populated only by seabirds.
• Norway has sovereignty over the Svalbard Archipelago, 930 km/580 miles north of Tromsø and well north of the Arctic Circle. The world’s most northerly town, Longyearbyen (named for an American mining magnate), is found on the largest island, Spitsbergen. Longyearbyen has a permanent population of 2100, of which 60% are male. There are very few people over 65. In fact, a person is only allowed to live there if he’s employed in the place—mining dominates—or if he’s independently wealthy. Otherwise, he’s deported.
• The abandoned Russian ghost settlement of Pyramiden is also found on Spitsbergen. The Russians extracted coal in the area from 1910 to 1998. When they left, they didn’t take their statue of Lenin. It still stands. Tourism to this site is now being encouraged! Yes, really. The hotel has been cleaned up and reopened.
Overall, I found this book visually pleasing and informative, but there are some problems with it. I recommend it—with a few reservations.
December 16, 2022
What an incredible place! I have always said, someday I shall go there. Until then, this book is a good stand-in, with stunning photography and interesting info about the country. A lovely gift for anyone interested in Norway.
4 stars.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my ARC.
4 stars.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my ARC.
November 24, 2022
I absolutely loved the few days I got to spend in Norway and this book took me right back. When I traveled to Norway I really only saw Oslo and a few of the surrounding towns and this book was a great reminder of the majesty of the country outside of its capital city. This book takes readers through the fjords, glaciers, islands, small towns, and cities of Norway. The color photographs are absolutely beautiful. This book would be a wonderful gift for anyone who has traveled to Norway.
December 25, 2022
Norway is a beautiful photography book about my country. With little facts about the fjords, the capital, and more, you get to be inspired for your next trip or dream your way here.
As a Norwegian, I absolutely loved reading this from the viewpoint of someone who lives here. I’ve only been to the south and I live on the east side of Norway, so as you can see, there’s a lot of Norway I haven’t visited either. Since lockdown, more people travelled their own country and it inspired me to check out what we have here: because it is as gorgeous as it looks.
I would recommend this to travel lovers, people who want to visit Norway, or have been here and want something to remember it by.
Happy reading!♥️
I got this book for free from netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
As a Norwegian, I absolutely loved reading this from the viewpoint of someone who lives here. I’ve only been to the south and I live on the east side of Norway, so as you can see, there’s a lot of Norway I haven’t visited either. Since lockdown, more people travelled their own country and it inspired me to check out what we have here: because it is as gorgeous as it looks.
I would recommend this to travel lovers, people who want to visit Norway, or have been here and want something to remember it by.
Happy reading!♥️
I got this book for free from netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2022
Of course I knew Norway to be a land of fjords and northern lights but Norway: Land of Fjords and the Northern Lights by Claudia Martin taught me so much more about this beautiful and versatile country. Did you know that Oslo is nicknamed Tigerstaden and there’s a tiger statue at the Central Station? Or that the world’s most northerly town is Norwegian and it’s a mining town that will deport you if you don’t have a job or other means to support yourself? From its magnificent fauna (the arctic fox only considers it to be cold when the temperatures drop below -70°C!) and its many national parks, to its tiny towns and vibrant cities, from the Global Seed Vault in Spitsbergen (providing back-up storage for seeds held in 1700 gene banks all over the world!) to the Heddal Stave Church in Telemark (looking like something out of a fairy tale), from its mountains, waterfalls and lakes to its fountains, statues, urban art scene and a monolith consisting of writhing bodies, Norway is without a doubt a fascinating country that I’m even more desperate to visit now, and Norway is the perfect book to transport you there in spirit. With its gorgeous photos and lots of interesting facts, this is the perfect book for any Nordic lover and/or (armchair) traveller.
March 25, 2024
(March 24, 2024) I have previously reviewed this book in Nov. 2022. The cover has changed and unfortunately my previous digital copy was for a limited time so I can’t compare editions. Having recently visited Antartica I was more interested in the section of the beautiful fjords and glaciers this time around. My original review is below.
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(November 2022) I love this series of photo books focusing on countries from Amber Books. Norway is a stunning country and the color photographs show off its natural beauty. The sections include; Glaciers and Fjords, The Islands, Provinces and Towns, and Oslo. I’’ve spent a few days in Oslo and was excited to see parks, buildings, sites and statues I visited. But this book makes we want to return and get further out of the capital city. This is a great souvenir for someone who has been to Norway and I can see it as something I would check out from a library. Thank you to NetGalley and Amber Books for a temporary eARC in exchange for an honest review.
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(November 2022) I love this series of photo books focusing on countries from Amber Books. Norway is a stunning country and the color photographs show off its natural beauty. The sections include; Glaciers and Fjords, The Islands, Provinces and Towns, and Oslo. I’’ve spent a few days in Oslo and was excited to see parks, buildings, sites and statues I visited. But this book makes we want to return and get further out of the capital city. This is a great souvenir for someone who has been to Norway and I can see it as something I would check out from a library. Thank you to NetGalley and Amber Books for a temporary eARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 24, 2023
This was another gorgeous travel book from Amber Books, those publishers who keep tempting me and other bookbloggers with their fab nonfiction books on NetGalley.
As always there were amazing photos with short text to explain what you’re looking at, making it easy to read. The book is split up into six chapters including an Introduction, Glaciers and Fjords, The Islands, Provinces and Towns, Oslo, plus of course the ever important Picture Credits.
I think my favourite photos were of the fjords, mountains and glaciers. They were amazing and I imagine are even more breathtaking to see in real life.
I didn’t realise that Norway is made up of 55,000 islands! How did I not know that?! One thing I did know was that the global seed vault is in Norway, in Spitsbergen to be precise. It was opened in 2008 and provides secure backup storage for seeds held in 1706 gene banks worldwide, holding up 2.5 billion individual seeds! Apparently it situated there because of the permafrost and the distinct lack of earthquake activity.
I thoroughly enjoyed my armchair visit to Norway and would love to go there on holiday sometime. In fact we almost went a few years ago, but the flight and travel times were so awkward for where we wanted to stay that we decided not to go in the end. Who knows maybe one day it might happen?
Highly recommended if you enjoy travel books.
Thanks so much to NetGalley and AmberBooks for my digital copy via the NetGalley app.
As always there were amazing photos with short text to explain what you’re looking at, making it easy to read. The book is split up into six chapters including an Introduction, Glaciers and Fjords, The Islands, Provinces and Towns, Oslo, plus of course the ever important Picture Credits.
I think my favourite photos were of the fjords, mountains and glaciers. They were amazing and I imagine are even more breathtaking to see in real life.
I didn’t realise that Norway is made up of 55,000 islands! How did I not know that?! One thing I did know was that the global seed vault is in Norway, in Spitsbergen to be precise. It was opened in 2008 and provides secure backup storage for seeds held in 1706 gene banks worldwide, holding up 2.5 billion individual seeds! Apparently it situated there because of the permafrost and the distinct lack of earthquake activity.
I thoroughly enjoyed my armchair visit to Norway and would love to go there on holiday sometime. In fact we almost went a few years ago, but the flight and travel times were so awkward for where we wanted to stay that we decided not to go in the end. Who knows maybe one day it might happen?
Highly recommended if you enjoy travel books.
Thanks so much to NetGalley and AmberBooks for my digital copy via the NetGalley app.
February 11, 2023
I’ve always admired the beauty of Norway but it wasn’t until this book did I realize how truly amazing it is. NORWAY, LAND OF FJORDS AND THE NORTHERN LIGHTS, by Claudia Martin.
Norway has some of the most varied habitats of all the European nations, from numerous national parks, massive glaciers, spectacular fjords, steep mountains, quaint fishing villages, and beautiful beaches. The stunning photos in this book shows the beauty of Norway, and highlights both the natural made beauty and the man made contributions, as well.
I recommend this book to anyone that may be planning a trip to this location and also to those that just want to admire the beauty of Norway from the comfort of home. Every photo in this book is truly something to admire. 5 stars!
Thanks to NetGalley and Amber Books Ltd. for the honor of reviewing this book. It’s a true work of art.
Norway has some of the most varied habitats of all the European nations, from numerous national parks, massive glaciers, spectacular fjords, steep mountains, quaint fishing villages, and beautiful beaches. The stunning photos in this book shows the beauty of Norway, and highlights both the natural made beauty and the man made contributions, as well.
I recommend this book to anyone that may be planning a trip to this location and also to those that just want to admire the beauty of Norway from the comfort of home. Every photo in this book is truly something to admire. 5 stars!
Thanks to NetGalley and Amber Books Ltd. for the honor of reviewing this book. It’s a true work of art.
January 4, 2023
Magnificent! This book captures the beauty and wildness of Norway. Fjords, islands, glaciers, national parks, tiny fishing villages, and Oslo: all are well represented in the photography and informative captions. I showed my husband photos of a couple of the hikes, telling him I want to go there.
I’m an American whose mother’s maternal line emigrated from Norway in 1870. I was VERY interested in the photo of the alpine vegetation from Buskerud County, as well as from Oppland. The majority of the family came from Buskerud but I have 7th great grandparents from Oppland. I will always remember those photos.
It only took me about 12 hours to go through this book! It was fast because I was enjoying myself so much. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to get a taste for the different parts of Norway.
Thank you to author Claudia Martin, Amber Books, and NetGalley for letting me have so much fun on New Years Day 2023! I didn’t receive anything for my review and my opinions are all my own.
I’m an American whose mother’s maternal line emigrated from Norway in 1870. I was VERY interested in the photo of the alpine vegetation from Buskerud County, as well as from Oppland. The majority of the family came from Buskerud but I have 7th great grandparents from Oppland. I will always remember those photos.
It only took me about 12 hours to go through this book! It was fast because I was enjoying myself so much. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to get a taste for the different parts of Norway.
Thank you to author Claudia Martin, Amber Books, and NetGalley for letting me have so much fun on New Years Day 2023! I didn’t receive anything for my review and my opinions are all my own.
November 26, 2022
Norway is at the very top of my bucket list of places to visit. I have ancestors from there, as well as Sweden, and have dreamed of visiting since I was a child.
This book is a beautiful, intimate and fascinating look at Norway, taking in everything from Svalbard to Oslo, glaciers to museums, fjords to seed vault and of course the wonderful Viking ships!
The photographs are stunning, everything you would expect to see in Norway, one thing I really like is the dark sea and white landscape that is dotted with vibrantly painted homes, their colours chosen to bring joy to the workers who lived in such an isolated part of the Country.
The artwork particularly fascinated me and has increased my list of places to visit when I eventually get to Norway.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and the publishers Amber Books for the chance to read and review this book.
This book is a beautiful, intimate and fascinating look at Norway, taking in everything from Svalbard to Oslo, glaciers to museums, fjords to seed vault and of course the wonderful Viking ships!
The photographs are stunning, everything you would expect to see in Norway, one thing I really like is the dark sea and white landscape that is dotted with vibrantly painted homes, their colours chosen to bring joy to the workers who lived in such an isolated part of the Country.
The artwork particularly fascinated me and has increased my list of places to visit when I eventually get to Norway.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and the publishers Amber Books for the chance to read and review this book.
January 26, 2023
This book is an immersive photo tour of Norway, from its liquid sapphire fjords to its vibrant cityscapes. It is impossible to pick a favorite photo of Norway’s natural landscapes. They are all stunning in this special place of immense beauty. Of the wildlife, my favorite photo is of the wistful-eyed Atlantic Puffin. It’s a treat to see the area that inspired Edvard Munch to paint The Scream in 1892, but this is just one of many tidbits this book offers as our “tour guide” comments on the many gorgeous and interesting stops. It would make an excellent gift for art lovers and for those who enjoy traveling to beautiful places.
Thank you to Amber Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read this ARC.
Thank you to Amber Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read this ARC.
February 19, 2025
I really love these books, they are so well done. This one was much more focused on the towns/cities than the nature of Norway and I think it threw me off a bit. Also, there was one small picture of the Northern Lights so I found it funny that it was included in the title but not really included in the book.
February 11, 2023
This was a fantastic book about such a wonderful country. I didn't know much about Norway before reading this book. Now I feel like I know quite a bit about it. Norway is such a beautiful country and this book really showed this with stunning photographs. Nearly every picture in this book had me in awe and saying wow. I loved the way that each picture had more writing describing the area and some fascinating facts. I could spend hours losing myself in this book. It made me feel so happy and relaxed. I was totally imagining myself there. I just love books like this that allow me to travel to different countries inexpensively. Big plus you will also stay warm looking at their cold climate, especially the stunning ice sheets. I loved learning about the colourful homes. Also, the pictures surrounding the fisheries.I really recommend reading this book if you want to experience new countries through amazing detailed pictures.
Only the highest of praise goes out to the author and publishers for creating this beautiful book that I learnt from. It took me on such a wonderful adventure. I just can't wait to read more books like this.
Only the highest of praise goes out to the author and publishers for creating this beautiful book that I learnt from. It took me on such a wonderful adventure. I just can't wait to read more books like this.
January 15, 2023
Norway: Land of Fjords and the Northern Lights proves that a picture is worth a thousand words. The photographs are, in a word, breathtaking, and show the landscape better than any text copy could. The book is separated into different sections, such as Glacier and Fjords, The Islands, Provinces and Towns, and Oslo. Each section has a lot of information about the areas, as well as interesting historical facts. As a jumping off point for someone looking to travel in the region, Norway: Land of Fjords and the Northern Lights would be a good start.
That being said, the book was lacking in one important area. I was expecting to see maps of the area, with particular points of interest pointed out. There was not one map of Norway, neither close up or geographical to the part of the world. As a coffee table book, Norway was top notch and one I would recommend as a look at the region.
Disclaimer: I was given an Advanced Reader's Copy of Norway by NetGalley and the publisher. The decision to read and review this book was entirely my own.
That being said, the book was lacking in one important area. I was expecting to see maps of the area, with particular points of interest pointed out. There was not one map of Norway, neither close up or geographical to the part of the world. As a coffee table book, Norway was top notch and one I would recommend as a look at the region.
Disclaimer: I was given an Advanced Reader's Copy of Norway by NetGalley and the publisher. The decision to read and review this book was entirely my own.
November 24, 2022
Norway: Land of Fjords and Northern Lights by Claudia Martin is a wonderful book.
I have seen stunning images before and knew it was beautiful, but, WOW!! I was blown away by the sheer, jaw dropping exquisite scenery. The mountains, ice, snow, water, lights, just wow!! The pictures of the cities and islands were insightful; I love the varied colors of the buildings. Additionally, the wild animals are great shots in their natural habitats. I was truly blown away by the fantastic photography of this heaven on earth. Most definitely recommend to all lovers of travel and stunning images. If you’ve ever wanted to experience Norway, but you’re unable to travel, then this book is a must have for you!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
I have seen stunning images before and knew it was beautiful, but, WOW!! I was blown away by the sheer, jaw dropping exquisite scenery. The mountains, ice, snow, water, lights, just wow!! The pictures of the cities and islands were insightful; I love the varied colors of the buildings. Additionally, the wild animals are great shots in their natural habitats. I was truly blown away by the fantastic photography of this heaven on earth. Most definitely recommend to all lovers of travel and stunning images. If you’ve ever wanted to experience Norway, but you’re unable to travel, then this book is a must have for you!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
December 24, 2022
I requested this book as I plan to visit Norway in 2024. A lot of it is exactly how I imagined it to be but the more modern city of Oslo was a surprise. It’s architecture and gardens were a wonderful delight and the fact it houses the Munch museum adds to its appeal for me.
There is a diverse range of wildlife too and that is always a bonus when visiting. One of the main attractions would have to be the Northern Lights which a visitor is guaranteed to see. How amazing would it be to be there during the midnight sun.
This book has heightened my excitement about visiting this country. It’s beautifully presented with many gorgeous double paged photos and minimal text. A wonderful coffee table book, that covers all aspects of living in a Country that is diverse and beautiful.
#Norway #NewGalley
There is a diverse range of wildlife too and that is always a bonus when visiting. One of the main attractions would have to be the Northern Lights which a visitor is guaranteed to see. How amazing would it be to be there during the midnight sun.
This book has heightened my excitement about visiting this country. It’s beautifully presented with many gorgeous double paged photos and minimal text. A wonderful coffee table book, that covers all aspects of living in a Country that is diverse and beautiful.
#Norway #NewGalley
January 11, 2023
In this gorgeous 224-page visual explorer guide, travel writer Claudia Martin shares interesting facts about Norway’s history, geography, wildlife, and culture alongside roughly 175 attractive photographs.
There are no maps and the text isn’t detailed enough to function as a travel guide, but this is a wonderful way for armchair travelers to learn more about Norway. For the more adventurous, this book might inspire travel plans or flesh out your list of sights to see, from glaciers, fjords, and waterfalls to theaters, churches, and museums.
At 11.5 x 8.4 inches, this hardcover is a bit smaller than I’d prefer, but still large enough to function as a nice coffee table book. Most of the text appears in photo captions, so be aware that the font is small.
Thanks to Amber Books for providing me with an ARC through NetGalley. I volunteered to provide an honest review.
There are no maps and the text isn’t detailed enough to function as a travel guide, but this is a wonderful way for armchair travelers to learn more about Norway. For the more adventurous, this book might inspire travel plans or flesh out your list of sights to see, from glaciers, fjords, and waterfalls to theaters, churches, and museums.
At 11.5 x 8.4 inches, this hardcover is a bit smaller than I’d prefer, but still large enough to function as a nice coffee table book. Most of the text appears in photo captions, so be aware that the font is small.
Thanks to Amber Books for providing me with an ARC through NetGalley. I volunteered to provide an honest review.
December 9, 2022
This review was originally published on NetGalley.com. I was given an ebook freely by NetGalley and the book’s publisher in return for a voluntary and honest review.
Norway: Land of Fjords and the Northern Lights
By Claudia Martin
I love Claudia Martin’s ability to collect a wide variety of pictures without getting in the way of the subject. I’ve always wanted to visit Norway. After reading her book I felt like I tripled the amount of places I want to visit once I get there.
The book is broken up by Glaciers and Fjords, Islands, Provinces and Towns, and Oslo. Some of the best wildlife pictures I’ve seen in a long time.
If this doesn’t make you want to visit this diverse country I can’t help you. You’re on your own.
Norway: Land of Fjords and the Northern Lights
By Claudia Martin
I love Claudia Martin’s ability to collect a wide variety of pictures without getting in the way of the subject. I’ve always wanted to visit Norway. After reading her book I felt like I tripled the amount of places I want to visit once I get there.
The book is broken up by Glaciers and Fjords, Islands, Provinces and Towns, and Oslo. Some of the best wildlife pictures I’ve seen in a long time.
If this doesn’t make you want to visit this diverse country I can’t help you. You’re on your own.
October 6, 2024
Norway by Claudia Martin is an exquisite introduction to the country, moving beyond the clichés of Vikings and fjords to reveal the real Norway. The stunning photography vibrantly captures the majestic landscapes, including the vibrant sunsets reminiscent of Edvard Munch's The Scream, painted during his stay at Oslofjord.
While showcasing the archipelago, mountains, and cliffs, the book also dives into Norway's communities, tourism, innovation, history, and art. I was mesmerized by the beauty of the architecture and the unique details, like colorful mailboxes dotting the islands. This book has firmly placed Norway on my bucket list!
Thank you to NetGalley, Amber Books Ltd, and Claudia Martin for this beautiful ARC. My review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.
While showcasing the archipelago, mountains, and cliffs, the book also dives into Norway's communities, tourism, innovation, history, and art. I was mesmerized by the beauty of the architecture and the unique details, like colorful mailboxes dotting the islands. This book has firmly placed Norway on my bucket list!
Thank you to NetGalley, Amber Books Ltd, and Claudia Martin for this beautiful ARC. My review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.
January 1, 2023
~~~ I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ~~~
I've always wanted to visit Norway and now I do even more! I thoroughly enjoyed the photographs and short snippets of information provided throughout this book. The book is divided into sections: Glaciers and Fjords, The Islands, Provinces and Towns, and Oslo. The collection of photographs included in this book is impressive and moving. I cannot wait to one day visit Norway!! This book would make. a great coffee table book or maybe for placing in a waiting or reception area of an office. It would also be a great gift to an avid traveler or someone with Norwegian heritage. I loved it.
I've always wanted to visit Norway and now I do even more! I thoroughly enjoyed the photographs and short snippets of information provided throughout this book. The book is divided into sections: Glaciers and Fjords, The Islands, Provinces and Towns, and Oslo. The collection of photographs included in this book is impressive and moving. I cannot wait to one day visit Norway!! This book would make. a great coffee table book or maybe for placing in a waiting or reception area of an office. It would also be a great gift to an avid traveler or someone with Norwegian heritage. I loved it.
January 10, 2023
In NORWAY, Claudia Martin has managed to capture the beauty of Norway's natural landscape. From the fjords in the west, the coastline of the south, the mountains and the forests, Martin has shown the diversity of the country mostly known for its fjords.
As someone born and raised in Norway, albeit in the east which doesn't have fjords or mountains, I tend to be extra critical when it comes to things showcasing my home. This photography book however has managed to exceed my expectations and go beyond what is normally shown.
A beautiful coffee table book for anyone interested in Norway, or simply in beautiful landscapes.
As someone born and raised in Norway, albeit in the east which doesn't have fjords or mountains, I tend to be extra critical when it comes to things showcasing my home. This photography book however has managed to exceed my expectations and go beyond what is normally shown.
A beautiful coffee table book for anyone interested in Norway, or simply in beautiful landscapes.
February 27, 2023
5 stunning stars
Norway: Land of Fjords and the Northern Lights is a feast for the eyes. Layouts are artistic in the well-organized four sections: Glaciers and Fjords, Islands, Provinces and Towns, and Oslo.
Martin wisely lets the photos ‘do the talking.’ Each section has a short introduction with each captivating photo described in two or three sentences – enough to give details, but to let the water, sky, and colors shine through.
Words I thought of when enjoying these amazing photos: mesmerizing, magical, charming, colorful, wow. I want/ Need to go there.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Norway: Land of Fjords and the Northern Lights is a feast for the eyes. Layouts are artistic in the well-organized four sections: Glaciers and Fjords, Islands, Provinces and Towns, and Oslo.
Martin wisely lets the photos ‘do the talking.’ Each section has a short introduction with each captivating photo described in two or three sentences – enough to give details, but to let the water, sky, and colors shine through.
Words I thought of when enjoying these amazing photos: mesmerizing, magical, charming, colorful, wow. I want/ Need to go there.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 19, 2025
Norway by Claudia Martin is a delightful tour through the country, replete with tons of gorgeous photos that presents the country’s geography, history, and culture in an enticing way. It's broken down into four sections: Glaciers and Fjords, The Islands, Provinces and Towns, and Oslo. The photographs and maps help to illustrate the country’s beauty and diversity. Norway is an excellent introduction to the country's history and culture. This was an enjoyable and educational read perfect as a coffee table conversation piece.
***Many thanks to Netgalley & Amber Publishing for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
***Many thanks to Netgalley & Amber Publishing for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
April 3, 2024
This book is truly gorgeous. I had looked into going to Norway a few years ago but ended up going to Finland instead. While I knew Norway was beautiful, this book taught me a lot about it. I had no idea that it was comprised of more than 55,000 islands. Even more, when I had been thinking of going, it was primarily to see the Northern Lights. Thanks to this book, the chapter on Oslo made me really want to visit the city. There is such a fascinating mix of classic Gothic architecture and really fascinating (dark) art. Did you know that the word ski comes from an Old Norse word? I didn’t but I do now!
November 28, 2022
Norway for me is one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited whether in the winter or summer. No matter where you are in the country every day offers a different view. As the seasons change I have never been to a more vibrant county whether it’s the bright buildings against the background of the snow or the green grass and beautiful trees during the autumn and all of this is before you take a trip down one of the many magnificent fjords. I will be buying a copy of this for my parents for Christmas to remind them of our recent cruise around the country. Beautiful book.
January 17, 2023
Thank you NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read and give an honest review of this book.
The book contains photos of the gorgeous country of Norway. There are forests, glaciers, mountains, lakes, fjords, northern lights, and beautiful cities.
If that doesn’t convince you to read this book (and look at the pictures) I don’t know what will.
Several years ago I had the privilege of visiting Norway and many of the sights I saw were captured in this book. It brought back wonderful memories and made me want to return there again.
The book contains photos of the gorgeous country of Norway. There are forests, glaciers, mountains, lakes, fjords, northern lights, and beautiful cities.
If that doesn’t convince you to read this book (and look at the pictures) I don’t know what will.
Several years ago I had the privilege of visiting Norway and many of the sights I saw were captured in this book. It brought back wonderful memories and made me want to return there again.
March 1, 2023
This book is a captivating view of the beauty of Norway. From the small islands to the big cities and from the towering fjords to a fisherman’s catch, this book explores it all. Perfect coffee table book for those that love Scandinavia, Norway, or just beautiful scenery. The colors are a perfect mix captured of vibrant and moody. I felt as though I was standing in a small village but I also felt as if I was standing on a fjord looking out over the ocean. A wonderful and well rounded view of Norway.
December 3, 2022
This was beautiful! It made me want to visit Norway even more!
The photographs were stunning. And I really liked how historical, linguistic, and generally educational facts were included alongside every photo. I feel like I learned something while looking at these beautiful images.
I highly recommend this both for browsing and for planning a list of places you must see in Norway.
Thank you to Netgalley and Amber Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The photographs were stunning. And I really liked how historical, linguistic, and generally educational facts were included alongside every photo. I feel like I learned something while looking at these beautiful images.
I highly recommend this both for browsing and for planning a list of places you must see in Norway.
Thank you to Netgalley and Amber Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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