In a world where watching TV without looking at your phone equals reading a book, actually reading a book is quite precious. Reykjavík has lots of cosy coffee shops you can snuggle up in, but how to choose what’s a good read? We asked Móheiður Hlíf Geirlaugsdóttir, owner of second-hand shop Kanínuholan (run from her garage until she wins the lottery and becomes a full-time bookseller and flower collector), for recommendations straight from her mind. You can get all of these where you usually get books, but we encourage you to support local bookstores, just like Kanínuholan, and stay away from evil corporate giants, aka Amazon.
Things You May Find Hidden in My Ear by Mosab Abu Toha
“This poetry collection has been on my nightstand for some time. I began following the author, Mosab, during the first months of the genocide in Gaza. His poetry is a deeply personal account of being born in a country under siege, and of how he and his family have survived, endured, and faced loss within an environment of apartheid and statelessness — the reality of being Palestinian today. This is Mosab’s first book of poetry, published in 2022, and it has moved me so profoundly that I have translated it. I am now in the process of publishing it in Icelandic with funding from Karolina Fund and the help of a group of volunteers, including artists and writers, who are assisting with proofreading and illustrations. This will be the first publication from my small bookshop, and it will be available this fall.”
Les Journaux by Anaïs Nin
“At the Rabbithole, you can find books in several languages, with a large selection in French.
Within my French book collection, Anaïs Nin’s diaries are a cherished favourite. The editions I’m reading, published in 1966, are part of a compelling chronicle that she kept from youth until her death in 1977. These books have no required beginning; you can open them anywhere and be captivated by her personal, vivid accounts. A true pioneer of autofiction, Anaïs wrote with a beautiful, poetic style. She lived through quite some interesting times, surrounded by pillars of art and culture, and her feminine perspective remains both relevant and timeless.”
Notes to John by Joan Didion
“This book contains notes or a diary of sorts that Joan Didion wrote to her husband, John Dunne. It was published in 2025 posthumously, four years after her death. Joan writes in great detail about her sessions with her psychiatrist. She uses this format to process her thoughts and the topics she discussed, including her relationships with her daughter and family. The text is eloquent and self-reflective with great insights. It also prompts a reflection on one’s own connections, youth, upbringing and codependency. The journal is a beautiful testament to Joan Didion’s sharp mind and precision.”
See more Grapevine’s book recommendations here.
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