As the last leaves are falling and we wait for the first snows of the year, we look to the Nordic North to learn how to keep things “hygge.” One might describe hygge (pronounced hoo-guh) as the Danish word for the feeling you get while curling up under a cozy blanket in front of a fireplace, a cup of hot tea in hand while the snow falls softly in the night air. As the nights get longer and the days grow colder, here are some books to help you in your quest for perfect hygge at home.
The Little Book of Hygge – Danish author Meik Wiking believes the secret to Danes’ happiness is hygge. Wiking says here are many ways to make this happen: Atmosphere, presence, and comfort are all included in his “Hygge Manifesto.” The little book is filled with anecdotes and simple ways to make your life a little happier.
The Year of Living Danishly – Helen recounts her amusing and heartwarming year uncovering the secrets of living happily–moving from London to rural Denmark. From hygge to childcare, pickled herring to sexism, “The Year of Living Danishly is a funny, poignant record of a journey that shows us where the Danes get it right, where they get it wrong, and how we might just benefit from living a little more Danishly ourselves.”
Scandinavian Classic Baking – Since baking is considered to be essential to hygge, check out this cookbook for great recipes on all the Scandinavian comfort pastries. The smell of freshly baked treats ready to be eaten in front of a cozy fire will fill your home with hygge.
-Stephanie M.
Howe's Book Valet 