Steinunn Sigurðardóttir

Steinunn Sigurðardóttir, born in Reykjavík, studied psychology and philosophy at University College Dublin. She made her literary debut at 19 with the poetry collection Sífellur (1969; Continuances). She worked as a journalist and radio reporter until the 1980s, also writing TV and radio plays. Her extensive television work includes interviews with Halldór Laxness, Dame Iris Murdoch, and Björk.

Sigurðardóttir is one of Iceland’s most acclaimed writers, with fourteen novels, eleven poetry collections, two non-fiction books, a children’s book, and a stage play. She has contributed significantly to the international recognition of contemporary Icelandic literature and is one of its most frequently translated authors. Her fiction blends existential depth with humor, a sharp understanding of human nature, and an innovative style.

Her novels include The Thief of Time (Tímaþjófurinn, 1986), which was adapted into the French film Voleur de vie (1998) starring Emmanuelle Béart and Sandrine Bonnaire, as well as Place of the Heart (Hjartastaður, 1995), which won the Icelandic Literary Prize. Other works include The Love of Fishes (Ástin fiskanna, 1993), Sunshine Horse (Sólskinshestur, 2005), and Jojo (Yo Yo).

Her latest novel, BÓL / Lavaland (2023), won the Icelandic Literary Prize, making her the first female author to receive this award twice. The novel has been hailed as a “true masterpiece” and “opus magnum,” captivating readers with its fiery and gripping exploration of love, secrets, strength, and surrender. Sigurðardóttir has lived in Paris and southern France and now divides her time between Reykjavík and Berlin.