Reading material shortage in simple Icelandic prompts new audiobooks aimed at language learners

There is a significant shortage of reading material in simple Icelandic, according to a short story author specializing in accessible language. These stories are utilized in Icelandic language teaching both domestically and internationally. Recently, two of these books were turned into audiobooks.

Karítas Hrundar Pálsdóttir, who has lived in various countries including Denmark, the United States, Japan, the UK, and Spain, quickly recognized that simple stories were commonly used in language education abroad, while similar resources were lacking in Iceland. After obtaining a doctoral degree in creative writing from the University of East Anglia, she authored two books, “Árstíðir” and “Dagatal,” which contain short stories designed for Icelandic learners. These stories reflect Icelandic culture, traditions, and the unique experience of life in Iceland, emphasizing seasonal changes and festivals like Þorrablót.

The audiobooks mark the first of their kind in Iceland, crafted specifically for learners at A2 to B1 levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. The initiative was met with enthusiasm from participants, who believe that these resources can support newcomers in their language journey.

Bjarni Snæbjörnsson, one of the audiobook narrators, expressed his excitement about the project, highlighting its potential to help many struggling with Icelandic. Ragnheiður Steindórsdóttir, another narrator, praised the positive impact of being able to listen to such diverse and enjoyable stories.

The project received funding from Iceland’s Equality Fund and Áslaug Hafliðadóttir’s Support Fund. Karítas is currently working on her third book, set to be released next year.