The Ferryman and His Wife by Frode Grytten

 

What a fantastic book! Norwegian author Frode Grytten has been compared to Amor Towles, and I see why. His character, Nils Vik, is truly unique and memorable. Although Grytten is better known in his native Norway, I suspect this translation will captivate a wider audience with his excellent storytelling. I certainly hope so.

Nils Vik, a ferry driver on a Norwegian fjord, wakes one day knowing this is the day he dies, soon to join his beloved wife, Marta. We follow Nils as he makes his way around the fjord, encountering ghosts and reliving his past. His long-dead dog Luna, his companion, often chimes in with anecdotes and observations. Frequently referring to his logbook to relive his impressions of the day he met a person, his conversations with the deceased are illuminating--informing him of things about their encounter that he didn't know. This emotional depth makes the book a truly empathetic read. 

The Ferryman and His Wife and an earlier book by Grytten have both won a prestigious Norwegian literary prize. This is a beautifully written book that is both captivating and enlightening. By reflecting on a life well lived and exploring the themes of life, death, and reflection, Grytten brings Nils Vik and the people from his past to life, making the reader feel contemplative and thoughtful. I highly recommend this book. 

5/5 stars.

Thank you, NetGalley and Algonquin Books, for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The publication date is November 18, 2025. 

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