FMV Book Club: Stolen by Ann-Helén Laestadius

Join us for an insightful discussion at our October Book Club! 🌟

October's Book Pick: Stolen by Ann-Helén Laestadius

• Genre: Literary Fiction / Coming-of-Age
• Origin: Sámi (Sápmi / Sweden)

About the Book:

When nine-year-old Elsa witnesses the harrowing killing of her reindeer, she’s forced into silence. As years pass, this traumatic memory lingers while she navigates her life in a Sámi community facing racism, harassment, and increasing threats to their traditional lifestyle.

Set against the stunning backdrop of northern Sweden, Stolen beautifully blends a coming-of-age tale with a profound examination of Indigenous identity, belonging, and the spirit of resistance. Through Elsa’s eyes, Ann-Helén Laestadius paints a heartfelt portrait of the contemporary Sámi experience.

Why We Chose It:

At FMV, we emphasize the importance of understanding not just global communities, but also the histories and realities right on our doorstep. The Sámi are the Indigenous people of Northern Europe, yet their narratives often go unheard. Stolen illuminates the ongoing discrimination, cultural erasure, and environmental challenges faced by Sámi communities today while celebrating their resilience, familial ties, and cultural pride.

As readers in the Nordic region, this book prompts us to reflect on whose histories are acknowledged, whose voices resonate, and what it truly means to preserve culture and identity today.

Haven’t read the book? No problem!
Feel free to join us regardless of your reading status! Our discussions are open to everyone—whether you’ve completed the book, just skimmed it, or simply wish to learn more. Let’s delve into the themes, history, and cultural context together.

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