2026-09-16 – September Bokprat: The Summer Book by Tove Jansson (Online)
Class Details
-
Schedule: September 16 (7:00-8:15 pm CT)
- Location: This is an online class hosted on Zoom.
- Level of Instruction: Beginner Friendly
Description
Vesterheim hosts a monthly bokprat (book group) where we discuss Scandinavian authors and Scandinavian life. Join us in September for a discussion of The Summer Book by Tove Jansson.
The Summer Book is a 1972 novel by Tove Jansson, creator of the Moomins, that follows a young girl named Sophia and her grandmother during a summer they spend together on a small island in the Gulf of Finland. Told with 22 vignettes, the book explores themes of life, death, love, and nature through their candid, often humorous, conversations and adventures, capturing the essence of the Scandinavian summer and the bond between the beginning and end of life.
Full of brusque humor and wisdom, The Summer Book is a profoundly life-affirming story. Tove Jansson captured much of her own experience and spirit in the book. This new edition sees the return of a European literary gem—fresh, authentic, and deeply humane.
Supplies
Registrants should secure their own copy of the book (available for purchase soon through the Vesterheim Museum Store) and have read it prior to the discussion.
Additional Supplies
Students will need to provide a computer, laptop, or tablet with a camera and mic as well as a fast, reliable internet connection.
Special Instructions
When registering for the class, please make sure to use the mailing and email addresses you'd like the Zoom meeting invitations sent to. You will receive links to the Zoom sessions by email sometime during the week prior to the class. If this class is a gift, please sign up with the recipient's mailing and email addresses or be prepared to forward the kit and all communications.
Enrollment Deadline
September 2, 2026