A review by hatseflats
We, the Drowned by Carsten Jensen

5.0

This monumental epic that is a novelized history of Marstal, Denmark between the 1820s through to the end of World War Two, written by one of its own residents, surely deserves all of the many accolades it has received, including the best Danish novel from the past 25 years. Nearing 700 pages in length, and at times, due to the somewhat morose emotional landscape exhibited by many of its main characters, felt like it would never end. Nevertheless, there are moments, and whole chapters, in the book, which kept me unable to give up on the journey. If you have ever wanted to read a book about those who live on and by the sea, and who make their lives as sailors, I can't think there is a book better than We, the Drowned. Highest recommendation!