The Last Summer

The Last Summer is the story of life in a rural community in Western Norway in the 1940's right after The Second World War seen through the eyes of Jens a boy who is 12 years old as the story begins and 14 by the end. It was first published in Norwegian in 1950. The title of the book was Siste Sommaren and it was given the Best Book of the Year Award for Children and Young People's Literature in Norway. Although meant as a book for young people it has been enjoyed through the years by all ages. The author Nils Bjorgaas was a teacher and writer who grew up in Voss Norway. He was a great storyteller who could particularly describe the world opening up to a young boy growing out of childhood. The author's niece Kari Bye has translated the book into English. She also grew up in Voss and moved back there after 30 years in the United States. She has worked as a designer and cultural educator in both countries.