011 - Chapter 11

A Happy Boy, written between 1859 and 1860, stands out as Bjørnsons finest portrayal of peasant life. The author masterfully crafts characters with striking clarity, showcasing his deep psychological insight, effortless narrative style, and genuine empathy for the protagonist and his environment. This enduring appeal is reflected in the widespread popularity of A Happy Boy across Scandinavia. (From the Preface) Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1903.