"The stories in this collection will sweep you away to the captivating world of Nordic folklore"--Page 4 of cover.

The whole world wants to learn the secrets of Nordic exceptionalism: why are the Danes the happiest people in the world, despite having the highest taxes? If the Finns really have the best education system, how come they still think all Swedish men are gay? Are the Icelanders really feral? How are the Norwegians spending their fantastical oil wealth? And why do all of them hate the Swedes? British author Michael Booth has lived among the Scandinavians,...

"In The Open-Air Life, Swedish-American writer Linda McGurk introduces readers to a wide array of Nordic customs and practices that focus on slowing down and spending more and more of ones' time outdoors. An outdoorsy cousin of hygge, friluftsliv is what Nordic people do outside all day before they cozy up in front of the fireplace with their wool socks on and a cup of hot cocoa"--

In the warmer months we crave food that is often naturally lighter and nourishing. Scandinavians do summer food well--it is wholesome, flavorsome, simple to make and sumptuous to look at. In Scandinavian culture, eating well is all about balance--everything in moderation. Also included are Brontë's insights into Scandinavian summer traditions and Midsummer celebrations.--From statement at Amazon.com.

The 'Danish coziness' philosophy is fast becoming the new 'French living' in terms of aspirational lifestyle books and blogs. There are countless viral articles comparing the happiness levels of Americans versus Danes. Their homes are more homey; their people are more cheerful. It's an attitude that defies definition, but there is a name for this slow-moving, stress-free mindset: hygge (pronounced "hoo-ga"). Hygge values the idea of cherishing yourself:...