Jostein Gaarder ​

Jostein Gaarder is a Norwegian intellectual and author of several novels, short stories, and children's books. He gained international fame with his philosophical novel "Sophie's World: A Novel About the History of Philosophy". This book has been translated into more than 60 languages and it has sold over 40 million copies.

Quick Facts ​

• His books, including "Sophie's World", have been translated into over 60 languages.
• Writing signature philosophical and historical novels and children's books.
• Named a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in 2005.
• Has won numerous awards for his work, receiving them from countries as diverse as Italy, South Korea and Russia.
• His books have sold more than 40 million copies worldwide.
• His books often use a unique blend of storytelling and academic teaching to provide lessons on various topics.

Background ​

Gaarder was born in 1952 in Oslo, Norway. He studied Scandinavian languages and theology at the University of Oslo. After completing his degrees, he worked as a high school philosophy teacher for several years. He considered philosophy too important to be restricted to academics and found a way to make it available to young people through novels. His most famous work, "Sophie's World," published in 1991, became a huge international success and has been translated into over 50 languages. It explores philosophical ideas in an accessible manner through the storyline, making it a popular read not just for teenagers but for adults too. Gaarder continues to write and has published a number of novels and books for children.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Gaarder's works are often complex, philosophical narratives with elements of mystery and magic realism. His style is characterized by his unique ability to present profound philosophical ideas in the form of accessible and captivating stories, often aimed at young adults. His works have contributed significantly in popularizing philosophical ideas and thoughts among the younger generation.

Notable Works ​

• Sophie's World (1991)
• The Solitaire Mystery (1990)
• The Orange Girl (2003)
• The Ringmaster's Daughter (2001)
• The World According to Anna (2015)