This book is a bit of an anomaly. It tells the story of an eccentric, complex and confrontational woman, but the story telling itself is non-confrontational. Instead of a single plotline/plot twist, this book is characterized by many smaller plot twists that combine to create a continual thought provoking and entertaining reading experience. In an indirect way this book addresses the question of "Nature vs. Nurture." I often found myself wondering if the author used Dina's character as a creative, and often humorous means of depicting schizophrenia. However, at other times I was drawn to the overal family and community dynamic that seemed to impress itself on all the characters collectively.
I have never traveled to Norway before and admittedly I am not very familiar with Norwegian culture. Wassmo does a beautiful job at providing the reader with a glimpse into this rather "isolated" country and the nuances of its village life.
This book is a wonderful and diverse addition to anyone's reading repetoire!