THE 100-YEAR-OLD MAN WHO CLIMBED OUT THE WINDOW AND DISAPPEARED

Banish your preconceptions regarding Scandinavian writing! This Swedish novel is neither a crime story, nor is it dark and gloomy. Allan Karlsson, the eponymous centenarian, cannot face his imminent birthday celebration at the old folks home, presided over by the mayor, so he impulsively clambers from his window and escapes in his slippers. Steven Crossley jubilantly recounts Allan's adventures as both his past and present escapades are intertwined. Crossley deftly delivers the Swedish place names as though born to them, but his very British delivery sits a little at odds with this American translation. This aside, his exuberance matches the innocent and sunny disposition that enables Allan to pass safely through numerous twentieth-century upheavals while he influences events from the Russian Revolution to the presidency of Richard Nixon. One thing this feel-good tale does have in common with other Scandinavian writing is plenty of snow and vodka. C.A.T. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2013]