For those who want to understand the path towards the crash and the benefits of hindsight - two very different books written by two very different individuals. One is a writer and environmental activist, the other a former manager of a fallen Icelandic bank.
Draumalandið ("The Dream Island") is a scathing satire of the nonchalant excess that dominated Icelandic life for so many, during the years prior to the crash, the disregard for Iceland's nature and blind devotion to materialism. Many dismissed this work upon its release and branded it as the work of a jealous under-achiever who envied the success of the banking society, but today it is genarally considered an insightful classic ahead of its time.
Ævintýraeyjan ("Frozen Assets") is a fallen banker's attempt to describe the relentless mentality that drove the equity bubble of the Icelandic banking system during the years from 2003 and to its demise in October 2008. A rare look into a world driven by money and glamour, this may in time prove to be a banker's manual on how NOT to conduct your business.
For a piece of Iceland's history - before and after the crash of 2008 - these books grant a valuable glimpse.
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