Sellerio's 1,200-Page Norwegian Novel 'Max, Mischa e l'offensiva del Tet' Becomes Italian Summer Hit
In July, the Italian publisher Sellerio released Johan Harstad's extensive 1,200-page novel, Max, Mischa e l'offensiva del Tet. Despite its intricate plot and lengthy title, the book quickly became a best-seller, with sales nearing 10,000 copies by mid-August, leading to a second print run. Editor Mattia Carratello highlighted its strong resonance with readers aged 25 to 35. Initially published in Norway in 2015, the novel has also enjoyed popularity in Germany and the Netherlands. The translation process spanned several years, and it has yet to be made available in English. The story traces the life of Max, a theater director, from his childhood in Norway to his experiences in the U.S. at age 35, delving into themes of the Vietnam War and societal transformation. Harstad is set to present the book at the Festivaletteratura in Mantua.
Fatti principali
- Sellerio published Max, Mischa e l'offensiva del Tet in Italy at the end of July.
- The novel runs 1,200 pages and was written by Norwegian author Johan Harstad.
- It sold nearly 10,000 copies in under a month and a half and reached a second printing.
- It was among the best-selling foreign fiction books in Italy throughout August.
- The book was first published in Norway in 2015 and later succeeded in the Netherlands and Germany.
- Sellerio acquired the rights about seven years ago; translation was by Maria Valeria D'Avino and Sara Culeddu.
- German press called it "the greatest American novel written by a European."
- The cover photo, also used for the Norwegian edition, shows actress Shelley Duvall.
- Sellerio editor Mattia Carratello noted strong sales among 25-to-35-year-olds.
- Harstad will present the book at the Festivaletteratura in Mantua with journalist Ludovica Lugli.
Entità
Artisti
- Johan Harstad
- Mattia Carratello
- Maria Valeria D'Avino
- Sara Culeddu
- Hanya Yanagihara
- Shelley Duvall
- Ludovica Lugli
Istituzioni
- Sellerio
- Iperborea
- Festivaletteratura
- Il Post
Luoghi
- Italy
- Norway
- Netherlands
- Germany
- United States
- New York
- Mantua
- Vietnam