Books by Egill Bjarnason

How Iceland Changed the World: The Big History of a Small Island

by Egill Bjarnason

"[A] joyously peculiar book." -- The New York Times

‘Bjarnason’s intriguing book might be about a cold place, but it’s tailor-made to be read on the beach.’ –New Statesman

The untold story of how one tiny island in the middle of the Atlantic has shaped the world for centuries.

The history of Iceland began 1,200 years ago, when a frustrated Viking captain and his useless navigator ran aground in the middle of the North Atlantic. Suddenly, the island was no longer just a layover for the Arctic tern. Instead, it became a nation whose diplomats and musicians, sailors and soldiers, volcanoes and flowers, quietly altered the globe forever. How Iceland Changed the World takes readers on a tour of history, showing them how Iceland played a pivotal role in events as diverse as the French Revolution, the Moon Landing, and the foundation of Israel. Again and again, one humble nation has found itself at the frontline of historic events, shaping the world as we know it, How Iceland Changed the World paints a lively picture of just how it all happened.

Lonely Planet Iceland

by Egill Bjarnason, Alexis Averbuck, Meena Thiruvengadam, Eygló Svala Arnarsdóttir

Lonely Planet's local travel experts reveal all you need to know to plan the trip of a lifetime to Iceland.

Discover popular and off the beaten track experiences from sailing among majestic icebergs in Iceland's most famous glacier lagoon, Jökulsárlón; to devouring lobster at the authentic small-town festival of Humarhátíð; and exploring þingvellir National Park on horseback.

Build a trip to remember with Lonely Planet's Iceland Travel Guide:

• Our classic guidebook format provides you with the most comprehensive level of information for planning multi-week trips
• Updated with an all new structure and design so you can navigate Iceland and connect experiences together with ease
• Create your perfect trip with exciting itineraries for extended journeys combined with suggested day trips, walking tours, and activities to match your passions
• Get fresh takes on must-visit sights and swim between the continents at Silfra Fissure, explore Katla Geopark, hike through Snæfellsjökull National Park
• Special features on capturing the Northern Lights, Reykjavik food and nightlife, and road trip through the Westfjords
• Expert local recommendations on when to go, eating, drinking, nightlife, shopping, accommodation, adventure activities, festivals, and more
• Essential information toolkit containing tips on arriving; transport; making the most of your time and money; LGBTIQ+ travel advice; useful words and phrases; accessibility; and responsible travel
• Connect with Icelandic culture through stories that delve deep into local life, history, and traditions
• Inspiring full-colour travel photography and maps including a pull out map of Reykjavik
• Covers Reykjavik, Southwest Iceland & the Golden Circle, Southeast Iceland, West Iceland, The Westfjords, North Iceland, East Iceland, The Highlands

Create a trip that's uniquely yours and get to the heart of this extraordinary country with Lonely Planet's Iceland.