Happy Land

£14.99

Finland has been named 'the happiest country in the world' for nine years running. Long-term British resident Tim Bird looks at what makes it so special

‘An entertaining sideways look at Finnish history, culture and identity’ Shafik Meghji

Drawing on his forty-year immersion in Finnish life, journalist Tim Bird reflects on Finland's reputation as 'the happiest country in the world', and whether Finns, famed for their 'sisu' (quiet resilience), dark winters and passion for heavy metal, actually recognise it.

From its landscape, culture and chequered history to its language, cuisine and wholehearted commitment to the West, he provides an entertaining and affectionate portrait of his adopted home and how it has changed since the 1980s.

Challenging the stereotype of a cold and introverted country, Happy Land invites us to step inside Finland's true psyche, ponder its place in the world, and learn the secrets of its special brand of contentment.

‘Written with warmth and charm, it underlines why this oft-overlooked Nordic nation deserves greater international attention’ Shafik Meghji, author of Small Earthquakes

‘It’s hard not to like Bird’s fair and objective appraisal of a highly likeable country’ Irish Times

‘Tim Bird’s astute observation and gentle humour come from an obvious love of his adopted home country. Warm and witty, with just the right amount of wacky, Happy Land has me plotting my own Finnish adventure’ Kate Wickers, author of Shape of a Boy

‘This hugely enjoyable journey through life in Finland resonates deeply with my own experience and understanding of this extraordinary, wonderful country’ Bruce J. Oreck, former US ambassador to Finland

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