Meet Tyra Teodora Tronstad - Selected Title Author
We are happy to present our selected title author Tyra Teodora Tronstad. She has written How to Deal with Stormy Spirits (original title: Oppskrift mot ånder som knuser ting). The book is one of NORLA’s Selected Titles of the spring 2023.
Read our interview with Tyra Teodora here.
What is the book about?
How to Deal with Stormy Spirits is about Henry Mafaye. His mother, who died when he was young, has become a “crushing ghost”. That means that if he talks about her, strong winds come and blow everything to pieces. It’s a bit of a problem, to say the least! Henry isn’t alone in this, though, and luckily, he has friends who can help him find a recipe to deal with stormy spirits. Such a recipe exists, but it’s not what they think. I think this book is mostly about diving into adventure and being allowed to be yourself. It’s about being allowed to talk about what’s on your mind – and about big love. And shoes.
What inspired you to write this book?
I’ve always enjoyed creating stories that challenge the boundaries between realism and magic and that create a world in which anything is possible. While writing this book, I was particularly inspired by fables and fairytales, fantasy narratives, and animated movies. Otherwise, I was interested in what has always interested me: literature’s ability to create space for exploration. I really wanted to write a book that everyone could read, and that children and adults alike could enjoy together. I also wanted to test out the power of my own experiences and see if they could be turned into a story. After all, I have a whole heap of experiences when it comes to the simple things in life being difficult to discuss.
Who is this book for?
This book is categorized for ages 9-12 in the book industry and bookstores. I wasn’t thinking that way when I was writing it, though. I wanted it to be enjoyable not only for children, but also for adults. I wanted to write a solid (and slightly crazy) story where there’s room for the reader – no matter who he or she is. I myself always enjoy when a story is open to many, when its voice is wide-reaching and friendly.
What distinguishes your book from other books in the same genre/theme?
Well, I haven’t actually read everything, so that’s a difficult question to answer! Comparing it to other magical-realism books about finding a recipe for dealing with stormy spirits, I think this one has the best cover. It was designed by Aina Griffin and turned out exactly like I’d been imagining it.
Read more
See full presentation of the book here
Read more about the author here
See all NORLA’s Selected Titles for the spring 2023 here
