Sunday, June 22, 2014

The Girl Who Saved the King of Sweden



This is another wide-ranging, improbable tale from Jonas Jonasson, author of The 100-year-old Man Who climbed out of The Window and Disappeared.
From desperate conditions in Soweto, South Africa, to being imprisoned in a nuclear facility, and eventually to Sweden, the story follows the unlikely fortunes and misfortunes of heroine, Nombeko, and the people she meets along the way.
In true Jonasson tradition historical facts are mixed with fantasy in such a way that you are reaching for the history books to check out the true story.
Monarchies and Republics, atomic bombs and spies, the young, old and eccentric come together in a delightful mix that has you laughing out loud.
Jonasson brings the story alive with fun characters, fast-paced narrative, real historical leaders, and realistic descriptions of real and imaginary places.
I thought the 100-year-old man was more believable, but this is still a great yarn and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Highly recommended.