Background
Stiegs grandfather, an inspiring role model
Stieg Larsson was born in Vasterbotten in northern Sweden in 1954. At the time of his birth, his parents were too young and too poor to keep him, so he was raised by his grandparents in a small village in the north of Sweden.
Stieg’s grandfather, Severin Boström, became the male role model for the young Stieg. Severin was strongly anti-fascist (and during the Second World War he was imprisoned in the work camp in Storsien for his anti-Nazi opinions)*. Had he been Danish, he would no doubt have been placed in a German Concentration Camp. The fate of his grandfather deeply affected and shaped Stieg’s character. He wanted to protect equal rights and fight for democracy and freedom of speech in order to prevent history, and what happened to his grand father, from repeating itself.
* Stieg’s father, Erland Larsson, says to stieglarsson.com that nobody in the family can confirm the information about the camp.
Youth, left-wing movement and far travels
When Stieg was nine years old, his grandfather died and he moved to live with his parents and his younger brother. Stieg was given a typewriter for his 12th birthday, and he spent most nights of his youth staying up writing, keeping his family awake with the drumming sound. At 18 years of age he met Eva Gabrielsson at an anti-Vietnam War meeting in Umeå. Eva was to become his life long companion. With some short exceptions, mainly due to the fact that Stieg was sometimes too obsessed with his work, they lived together until Stiegs death the 9th November 2004. After his military service, Stieg travelled in Africa and has been described as “an early backpacker”. He rarely had enough money on his travels, in an interview with Norra Västerbotten in 2006, his father describes how he had to work as a dishwasher and sell his clothes to afford a ticket home from Algeria.
Stieg Larsson was also interested in Science Fiction. Among other things was he the chairman of the Scandinavian science fiction society and published two magazines.
A life under constant threat
During the last 15 years of his life, he and his life companion Eva Gabrielsson lived under constant threat from right-wing violence. When a labor-union leader was murdered in his home by neo-Nazis in 1999, the police discovered photos of and information about the couple in the murderer’s apartment. So it was not without reason that the couple took precautionary measures. They were never seen together outside the house, they moved mirrors in the hall and they always kept the blinds down. Those are just a few examples. Stieg was an expert in the area, and wrote a book of instructions on how journalists should respond to threats for the Swedish Union of Journalists (“Överleva Deadline”, 2000).
Writing as a relaxation
The situation created a contrast between Stieg’s work at Expo and his night-time novel writing. He regarded his writing of detective novels as relaxing. Keeping track of loose ends, characters and made up conspiracies posedno problem since it was, after all, fiction and no one would threaten either Eva or himself because of it.
2,225 comments on “Background”
It’s not mentioned here but when Stieg was 15 he witnessed a gang rape a girl and after that haunting memory for the rest of his life he was against sexual violence against woman. I agree with him and he will always be one of the best authors.
- Anonymous,
Of heart atck
Steig’s writing reminds me of a combination of two of my favorite mystery writers. I have read all of Dick Francis’ novels for light, fast paced action and Elizabeth George for depth of characters and intricacy of plot. Larsson combines the best of both. The books are masterpieces.
- Tony Ferrari,
Steig’s writing reminds me of a combination of two of my favorite mystery writers. I have read all of Dick Francis’ novels for light, fast paced action and Elizabeth George for depth of characters and intricacy of plot. Larsson combines the best of both. The books are masterpieces.
- Tony Ferrari,
I’ve heard that when Larsson died, his third book wasn’t finished, and someone had to publish it for him. I wonder if this is true…. On another note. these books were amazing, and i definately recomend them to all readers.
- Sammantha Brown,
why does include the numerous rapes of salander in the first book then?
I’ve heard that when Larsson died, his third book wasn’t finished, and someone had to publish it for him. I wonder if this is true…. On another note. these books were amazing, and i definately recomend them to all readers.
- Sammantha Brown,
why does include the numerous rapes of salander in the first book then?
These books are absolutely amazing! I am so excited to start the third book yet am quite sad to know it is the last one I will read from this trilogy. What an amazing author with great talent. I would recommend these books to anyone.
- Lori F,
No, the third book was finished but there was a fourth book coming out but not as a follow up to the ‘Triology’. The ‘Triology’ was finished but Larsson had a contract with Norstedt, the book publisher, to write ten books. This fourth book was written something like 300 pages and that’s the one which isn’t finished. I really don’t know if Eva Gabrielsson has finished it but I read that she was suppose to do so.
- bejson,
These books are absolutely amazing! I am so excited to start the third book yet am quite sad to know it is the last one I will read from this trilogy. What an amazing author with great talent. I would recommend these books to anyone.
- Lori F,
No, the third book was finished but there was a fourth book coming out but not as a follow up to the ‘Triology’. The ‘Triology’ was finished but Larsson had a contract with Norstedt, the book publisher, to write ten books. This fourth book was written something like 300 pages and that’s the one which isn’t finished. I really don’t know if Eva Gabrielsson has finished it but I read that she was suppose to do so.
- bejson,
What did he die from at such a young age?
- Pattypiecake495@aol.com,
Wholeheartedly agree, best trilogy i’ve ever read.
- Angie,
What did he die from at such a young age?
- Pattypiecake495@aol.com,
Wholeheartedly agree, best trilogy i’ve ever read.
- Angie,
Trilogy were brillant books. This author was very talented.
- Linda,
Trilogy were brillant books. This author was very talented.
- Linda,
I read the first book out of curiosity about the complicated storyline that I heard from a close friend earlier this year. She loves mystery novels and I decided to give it a try. After I read the first book, I became intoxicated and started to find the 2nd and 3rd book which puzzled me that the books are quite hard to find in an outstanding bookstore in my country. After a sheer luck, I managed to get hold of the books and become engaged with Lisbeth Salander’s life. The author is very detailed in portraying each characters and it feels like I could become a computer hacker just like Salander. It’s sad that he died and doesn’t get to see the triumph of his books. I wish Ms Eva and his remaining families all the best and may he rest in peace.
- Shiqin76,
Books in Brazil is very easy to buy. I agree on you Shiqin76 but not agree on finish.I hope that Eva will the winner in justice of SWEDEN and may be he rest in peace
- tania,
I read the first book out of curiosity about the complicated storyline that I heard from a close friend earlier this year. She loves mystery novels and I decided to give it a try. After I read the first book, I became intoxicated and started to find the 2nd and 3rd book which puzzled me that the books are quite hard to find in an outstanding bookstore in my country. After a sheer luck, I managed to get hold of the books and become engaged with Lisbeth Salander’s life. The author is very detailed in portraying each characters and it feels like I could become a computer hacker just like Salander. It’s sad that he died and doesn’t get to see the triumph of his books. I wish Ms Eva and his remaining families all the best and may he rest in peace.
- Shiqin76,
…3 packs of cigarrets a day, plus 20 coffees a day, plus overstress….
- Sonja,
HOW DID HE DIE?
HOW DID HE DIE?
Yes, how did he die?
Yes, how did he die?
I feel lost and im having a hard time having some what of a closer after just finishing the 3rd book…Although i need to get on with my life.. I read for 8yrs straight..who does that? when you have a family that only sees the top of your head for days…
- teena, 2011,
Stieg died at the age of fifty after walking up seven flights of stairs. The elevator was broken.
- 2lazee2werk,
yeah but his books were amazing
- indubiously,
I believe he knows…
- Sharon,
I feel lost and im having a hard time having some what of a closer after just finishing the 3rd book…Although i need to get on with my life.. I read for 8yrs straight..who does that? when you have a family that only sees the top of your head for days…
- teena,
Stieg died at the age of fifty after walking up seven flights of stairs. The elevator was broken.
- 2lazee2werk,
Books in Brazil is very easy to buy. I agree on you Shiqin76 but not agree on finish.I hope that Eva will the winner in justice of SWEDEN and may be he rest in peace
- tania,
I believe he knows…
- Sharon,
Stieg Larsson obviously liked to live dangerously. I couldnt put his 3 triology ,
books down, and feel very sorry for his partner having to be subjected to the greed of his 2 remaining family relatives, after all the years she spent supporting this talented man. His sudden death reminded me of the mysterious death in Britain of that Russian defector who was killed by a poisoned umbrella tip, Stieg ruffled too man6y feathers for his own good. He truly ‘hungered and thirsted after Jusice’ and I hope he is now blessed.
- J Fanning. New Zealand,
Stieg Larsson obviously liked to live dangerously. I couldnt put his 3 triology ,
books down, and feel very sorry for his partner having to be subjected to the greed of his 2 remaining family relatives, after all the years she spent supporting this talented man. His sudden death reminded me of the mysterious death in Britain of that Russian defector who was killed by a poisoned umbrella tip, Stieg ruffled too man6y feathers for his own good. He truly ‘hungered and thirsted after Jusice’ and I hope he is now blessed.
- J Fanning. New Zealand,
Fascinating. Such a loss of a great storyteller and man of principles
- Katydid,
Fascinating. Such a loss of a great storyteller and man of principles
- Katydid,
I’m so glad that I didn’t break my rule of always reading books in the order they were written. I would have missed so much. What a loss to the literary world!
- Turquoiz48,
I’m so glad that I didn’t break my rule of always reading books in the order they were written. I would have missed so much. What a loss to the literary world!
- Turquoiz48,
Couldn’t put the books down once I started reading them! Thanks to our daughter & husband buying the first for my husband for fathers day, the second for his birthday…the last we borrowed from the library! Wow, what a great writer! Can only image what he could have written had he lived on!
- AJB,
“daughter and husband buying the first for my husband for father’s day…” Try to think of your readers, please!
- WTF,
Couldn’t put the books down once I started reading them! Thanks to our daughter & husband buying the first for my husband for fathers day, the second for his birthday…the last we borrowed from the library! Wow, what a great writer! Can only image what he could have written had he lived on!
- AJB,
yeah but his books were amazing
- indubiously,
Just fiinished the last book and what a journey. These three books have had me so absorbed over the past weeks I feel quite empty now that I am done and still am thirsty for more. Fantastic, well written and a fabulous read I would very much liked to have had the opportunity to meet the author and the world is most definately a poorer place without his talent in it.
I never re read books or watch films made from books I’ve read and enjoyed but I will most definately make an exception in this case.
Eva you have been so privalaged to be so close to such talent; you must be so proud.
- J Pinfold,
I have read all three books. WOW What amazing reading. I came across his second book by mistake and then went to a small book store and bought the other two. He will surely be missed.
- Toni L. Holder,
My god-daughter gave me copy of the first of the trilogy and I have just finished the 2nd book which I got fromt he public library. I can hardly wait to read the third.. I read word-for-word and found it totally absorbing and educational – his early death has been a great loss. I would like to see the film of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.
- Marian Brown,
Just fiinished the last book and what a journey. These three books have had me so absorbed over the past weeks I feel quite empty now that I am done and still am thirsty for more. Fantastic, well written and a fabulous read I would very much liked to have had the opportunity to meet the author and the world is most definately a poorer place without his talent in it.
I never re read books or watch films made from books I’ve read and enjoyed but I will most definately make an exception in this case.
Eva you have been so privalaged to be so close to such talent; you must be so proud.
- J Pinfold,
I have read all three books. WOW What amazing reading. I came across his second book by mistake and then went to a small book store and bought the other two. He will surely be missed.
- Toni L. Holder,
My god-daughter gave me copy of the first of the trilogy and I have just finished the 2nd book which I got fromt he public library. I can hardly wait to read the third.. I read word-for-word and found it totally absorbing and educational – his early death has been a great loss. I would like to see the film of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.
- Marian Brown,
Hi, I’m argentinian. I’ve just finished reading “The girl with the dragon tattoo”. This book has touched me in a way I can’t explained. My mind needs some rest but at the same time I need to read it again I need to crumble it and take every piece of it and think about its meaning. There is one thing I’m utterly sure, Lisbeth Salander overwhelmed me.
Regards,
- Adriana,
Gee, Jennifer 20 million people enjoyed Stieg Larsson’s books, but not you? Hmmmmm? Let’s see it grossed over $100 million all over Europe and going strong here in the States, again Hmmmmmm?Could it be just you?Dana,
- ,
fantastic reading, books you can not put down, and probably no other books like it, the series keeps you alert, wanting more, and having to satisfy yourself with after 3 that is it!!
He was a truly clever writer rip Steig.
- k wisbey,
Hi, I’m argentinian. I’ve just finished reading “The girl with the dragon tattoo”. This book has touched me in a way I can’t explained. My mind needs some rest but at the same time I need to read it again I need to crumble it and take every piece of it and think about its meaning. There is one thing I’m utterly sure, Lisbeth Salander overwhelmed me.
Regards
- Adriana,
Gee, Jennifer 20 million people enjoyed Stieg Larsson’s books, but not you? Hmmmmm? Let’s see it grossed over $100 million all over Europe and going strong here in the States, again Hmmmmmm?Could it be just you?Dana
- ,
fantastic reading, books you can not put down, and probably no other books like it, the series keeps you alert, wanting more, and having to satisfy yourself with after 3 that is it!!
He was a truly clever writer rip Steig.
- k wisbey,
The three books that Steil Larsson wrote are without doubt the best books I have read in a long time. They would make a fabulous film.
- Darrell E. Abbott,
The next two books are good too….enjoy….regards from Denmark
- Lars,
Hi. I have only just discovered the phenomenon that is the Millenium series. The first book was passed to me and at first I thought it was a little slow going. However, I finished it enamoured with Liz Salander and am now a devotee! I have been in bed the last 4 days with a cold and have devoured the other 2 books in the trilogy. I could not, quite literally put them down…what a rollercoaster. I find myself very pensive now and cannot get Liz out of my mind. R.I.P. Stieg Larsson and I will think of you tomorrow. Phenomenal. Thank you.
- Rachel Cusworth, UK,
The three books that Steil Larsson wrote are without doubt the best books I have read in a long time. They would make a fabulous film.
- Darrell E. Abbott,
The next two books are good too….enjoy….regards from Denmark
- Lars,
Hi. I have only just discovered the phenomenon that is the Millenium series. The first book was passed to me and at first I thought it was a little slow going. However, I finished it enamoured with Liz Salander and am now a devotee! I have been in bed the last 4 days with a cold and have devoured the other 2 books in the trilogy. I could not, quite literally put them down…what a rollercoaster. I find myself very pensive now and cannot get Liz out of my mind. R.I.P. Stieg Larsson and I will think of you tomorrow. Phenomenal. Thank you.
- Rachel Cusworth, UK,
I have just recently started reading the triology. I am almost done with the 3rd book. I can not wait to finish the book, yet I don’t want to be finished and lose contact the characters. Lisbeth’s character and story is captiving. LOVE THEM!
- Kathy Emanuel,
I have just recently started reading the triology. I am almost done with the 3rd book. I can not wait to finish the book, yet I don’t want to be finished and lose contact the characters. Lisbeth’s character and story is captiving. LOVE THEM!
- Kathy Emanuel,
The books are great! Finishing the third in the trilogy today.
- ,
My wife bought the 1st book. Ever since i took up to reading, the suspense just builds up. If you think that the books were written in isolation from each other, they were not! The 2nd book continues to account the character’s bond and history. What a read! I cannot wait to read the 3rd book!
- Imon Oo,
If you are interested there is a tv seriel based on Larssons Millenium trilogy. In swedish ofcourse, but it only makes it better since it is original. I warmy recomend it. One of the best seriels I`ve seen in a long time.
- Anna,
The books are great! Finishing the third in the trilogy today.
-
My wife bought the 1st book. Ever since i took up to reading, the suspense just builds up. If you think that the books were written in isolation from each other, they were not! The 2nd book continues to account the character’s bond and history. What a read! I cannot wait to read the 3rd book!
- Imon Oo,
If you are interested there is a tv seriel based on Larssons Millenium trilogy. In swedish ofcourse, but it only makes it better since it is original. I warmy recomend it. One of the best seriels I`ve seen in a long time.
- Anna,
Just finished the second book – in one day it was so good. Couldn’t wait to get to the library for #3. So upset it’s closed for the holiday. I’m going to miss the characters when I’ve finished the trilogy. I particularly like the notes/facts on each chapter page. It has taken me a bit to figure out some of the math stuff in book #2, but I liked the challenge.
- Carol Hardee,
Just finished the second book – in one day it was so good. Couldn’t wait to get to the library for #3. So upset it’s closed for the holiday. I’m going to miss the characters when I’ve finished the trilogy. I particularly like the notes/facts on each chapter page. It has taken me a bit to figure out some of the math stuff in book #2, but I liked the challenge.
- Carol Hardee,
I am so sad he is gone. what a stupendous feat he has done in writing these enthralling entrancing novels.
- Susan,
I am so sad he is gone. what a stupendous feat he has done in writing these enthralling entrancing novels.
- Susan,
Wonderful books! I wish there were more.
- Dorothy Turcotte, Canada,
Wonderful books! I wish there were more.
- Dorothy Turcotte, Canada,
What a brilliant brilliant story teller! I read all 3 books in the millennium series one after the other. Barely slept in the past 3 days!!!! I wish there was some more of Salander and Blomkvist – will truly miss te characters.
- Rabea Amjad – Pakistan,
The extreme right is very frightening in the U.S.Could we go the way of Germany circa 1933? Stieg Larsson lights an important light.
- Saffie,
What a brilliant brilliant story teller! I read all 3 books in the millennium series one after the other. Barely slept in the past 3 days!!!! I wish there was some more of Salander and Blomkvist – will truly miss te characters.
- Rabea Amjad – Pakistan,
The extreme right is very frightening in the U.S.Could we go the way of Germany circa 1933? Stieg Larsson lights an important light.
- Saffie
good write up- want to know more
- gracia noble,
good write up- want to know more
- gracia noble,
Read all three of the books after I had been seeing references to the first for about a year. As a writer myself I was inspired to elaborate on my own characters because of Stig’s excellent characterizations. Stig ranks up there and probably surpasses Hammett and the other great detectives. i was inspired to read other swedish authors as well. I’m rambling here because i really haven’t got time to really expound on how much i liked Stig’s three books. I am pissed that he did not get to enjoy the fruits of his labour. To lose a man like Stig is terrible thing. I enjoyed the Swedish movies while carefully avoiding each until I’d finished the books. I am now re-reading the first book again and am looking forward to a re-read of the other two.
My sympathies to his life partner and his. Great loss.
- Don ledger-writer, author,
I totally agree. Bought the first two in the series after recomendation from a friend. What a dissapointment when couldn’t find third book in my town. I ran home and ordered it on line. Had to buy hardback as it doesn’t come out in paperback here until Feb. and I just couldn’t wait until then!!
- Emily Elizondo/USA,
Read all three of the books after I had been seeing references to the first for about a year. As a writer myself I was inspired to elaborate on my own characters because of Stig’s excellent characterizations. Stig ranks up there and probably surpasses Hammett and the other great detectives. i was inspired to read other swedish authors as well. I’m rambling here because i really haven’t got time to really expound on how much i liked Stig’s three books. I am pissed that he did not get to enjoy the fruits of his labour. To lose a man like Stig is terrible thing. I enjoyed the Swedish movies while carefully avoiding each until I’d finished the books. I am now re-reading the first book again and am looking forward to a re-read of the other two.
My sympathies to his life partner and his. Great loss.
- Don ledger-writer, author,
I totally agree. Bought the first two in the series after recomendation from a friend. What a dissapointment when couldn’t find third book in my town. I ran home and ordered it on line. Had to buy hardback as it doesn’t come out in paperback here until Feb. and I just couldn’t wait until then!!
- Emily Elizondo/USA
The mystery behind this Author should be a movie itself. Although i am sure it will lack the true connection and conviction of his work and soul. I only hope that if there is something behind just dirt after death, I will have the opportunity to investigate him myself.(Something he may actually be entertained with) Although in life he was not given his due credit and respect. I have no doubt that ONE day he will be the focus of text books and research data a cross the world. I olny hope that “everyone has secrets” pertains to him in the most minuscule way.
- cstiles91108@yahoo.com,
The mystery behind this Author should be a movie itself. Although i am sure it will lack the true connection and conviction of his work and soul. I only hope that if there is something behind just dirt after death, I will have the opportunity to investigate him myself.(Something he may actually be entertained with) Although in life he was not given his due credit and respect. I have no doubt that ONE day he will be the focus of text books and research data a cross the world. I olny hope that “everyone has secrets” pertains to him in the most minuscule way.
- cstiles91108@yahoo.com,
I much enjoyed “Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,” which I had to read before watching the movie release here in the U.S. I appreciate the insight into both the Swedish culture and hacker culture. As a journalist myself, my favorite part was the confrontation between Lisbeth and Mikael regarding journalism vs hacker ethics. It is the best explanation I have yet heard about why hacking is NOT journalism, although I must admit I am sympathetic to Lisbeth’s reason for doing so. How could one not be? I believe this book could be a basis for writing ethics policies regarding online journalists who may or may not be accredited. Free speech must be protected at all costs, but there is a line journalists must draw between illegal invasion of privacy and necessary investigations. Would love to hear anyone else’s feelings on this.
- Melissa Bower,
Truly a gift to readers alike……….I can’t wait to see the movie. I couldn’t put the first book down. Stieg’s death is a great loss to the book world. I plan to buy the other two books this weekend. I too came to this web site to find out what happended to him after reading his first book. So sad to die so sudden and so young. My heart goes out to the family. His memory will live on through his books.
- NC (USA),
I just finished the first book, which I picked up at Safeway, when I saw the headline “phenomenal #1 bestseller, now a major motion picture.” I hadn’t heard about the author or the book, prior to reading it. When I read that the author died shortly after finishing the series of three books, I wondered what had happened to him. Now that I am done with the first book, I am on this site reading his biography. What a great book! How sad that this author will never write again. I fell in love with the characters, Blomkvist and Salander, and can’t wait to read the other two books. Condolences to the author’s family and loved ones for his untimely death.
- Anne Martin,
I much enjoyed “Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,” which I had to read before watching the movie release here in the U.S. I appreciate the insight into both the Swedish culture and hacker culture. As a journalist myself, my favorite part was the confrontation between Lisbeth and Mikael regarding journalism vs hacker ethics. It is the best explanation I have yet heard about why hacking is NOT journalism, although I must admit I am sympathetic to Lisbeth’s reason for doing so. How could one not be? I believe this book could be a basis for writing ethics policies regarding online journalists who may or may not be accredited. Free speech must be protected at all costs, but there is a line journalists must draw between illegal invasion of privacy and necessary investigations. Would love to hear anyone else’s feelings on this.
- Melissa Bower,
Truly a gift to readers alike……….I can’t wait to see the movie. I couldn’t put the first book down. Stieg’s death is a great loss to the book world. I plan to buy the other two books this weekend. I too came to this web site to find out what happended to him after reading his first book. So sad to die so sudden and so young. My heart goes out to the family. His memory will live on through his books.
- NC (USA),
I just finished the first book, which I picked up at Safeway, when I saw the headline “phenomenal #1 bestseller, now a major motion picture.” I hadn’t heard about the author or the book, prior to reading it. When I read that the author died shortly after finishing the series of three books, I wondered what had happened to him. Now that I am done with the first book, I am on this site reading his biography. What a great book! How sad that this author will never write again. I fell in love with the characters, Blomkvist and Salander, and can’t wait to read the other two books. Condolences to the author’s family and loved ones for his untimely death.
- Anne Martin,
Just finishing the third novel, “Hornet’s Nest” and panicking that no more can be written without Olsson here!! Any plans for more by ghost writers?? Was his death investigated??
Pat
- ,
Just finishing the third novel, “Hornet’s Nest” and panicking that no more can be written without Olsson here!! Any plans for more by ghost writers?? Was his death investigated??
Pat
In the midst of the third book in the enthralling series,
Very sad that Mr. Larsson is gone and has taken his
amazing talent to another place. I feel fortunate to have
visited many of the towns in the books…reading becomes
a suspense filled mini vacation for me.
Rest In Peace Stieg Larsson. You are missed!
- Linda Hansen. Cincinnati, OH,
In the midst of the third book in the enthralling series
Very sad that Mr. Larsson is gone and has taken his
amazing talent to another place. I feel fortunate to have
visited many of the towns in the books…reading becomes
a suspense filled mini vacation for me.
Rest In Peace Stieg Larsson. You are missed!
- Linda Hansen. Cincinnati, OH,
Got the first audio book and went right on to the second and now I am on the third book and sad that there are no more books. These books have given me many driveway moments. The writing keeps you on the edge of your seat and you are always suprised at the twists and turns. It would be great if a ghost writer could continue the series.
- charming Greenwood Village, CO,
Got the first audio book and went right on to the second and now I am on the third book and sad that there are no more books. These books have given me many driveway moments. The writing keeps you on the edge of your seat and you are always suprised at the twists and turns. It would be great if a ghost writer could continue the series.
- charming Greenwood Village, CO,
Have just read The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and The Girl who Played with Fire. Both are great and enjoyed them so very much even if I could not pronounce all the names and did not know where the places where in Sweden. I am so sad that Larsson died so early in his career.
- Sandra Mayo,
Have just read The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and The Girl who Played with Fire. Both are great and enjoyed them so very much even if I could not pronounce all the names and did not know where the places where in Sweden. I am so sad that Larsson died so early in his career.
- Sandra Mayo,
what talent! Too bad, he died so early in life. I would have continued reading his novels….
- Closinda,
what talent! Too bad, he died so early in life. I would have continued reading his novels….
- Closinda,
Larsson was a really talented person but thats sad he died before he could have been here to experience his books being published and made into a movie. I am doing a huge project about him for my english and i hope it will turn out great beause his life is just so interesting!!
- Auden,
Larsson was a really talented person but thats sad he died before he could have been here to experience his books being published and made into a movie. I am doing a huge project about him for my english and i hope it will turn out great beause his life is just so interesting!!
- Auden,
What did he die of at such a young age?
- Bysam,
It’s an inevitable suspicion to have, especially given the conspiracies which are rife in the books! and one that also occurred to me. However, heavy smoking, excessive caffeine consumption and the highly stressful life of a journalist (even those who DON’T investigate sensitive organisations!) are equally likely to have caused him to have a heart attack. What I find possibly ironic is that one or two of his characters in the third novel experience what sound like early warning signs of heart disease. Perhaps he had an inkling himself that he was not 100% fit? Finished the trilogy yesterday and found it the most fulfilling reading experience I’ve had in a good many years …
- Christina, UK,
My feeling exactly – compounded by the fact that the blurb on the inside cover has very ambiguous wording – which leads me to believe that the publisher isn’t entirely convinced either. It reads: “He died suddenly and unexpectedly in November……”. Why not “He died of a heart attack suddenly and unexpectedly…?
- JO in the UK,
What did he die of at such a young age?
- Bysam,
It’s an inevitable suspicion to have, especially given the conspiracies which are rife in the books! and one that also occurred to me. However, heavy smoking, excessive caffeine consumption and the highly stressful life of a journalist (even those who DON’T investigate sensitive organisations!) are equally likely to have caused him to have a heart attack. What I find possibly ironic is that one or two of his characters in the third novel experience what sound like early warning signs of heart disease. Perhaps he had an inkling himself that he was not 100% fit? Finished the trilogy yesterday and found it the most fulfilling reading experience I’ve had in a good many years …
- Christina, UK,
My feeling exactly – compounded by the fact that the blurb on the inside cover has very ambiguous wording – which leads me to believe that the publisher isn’t entirely convinced either. It reads: “He died suddenly and unexpectedly in November……”. Why not “He died of a heart attack suddenly and unexpectedly…?
- JO in the UK,
What a brilliant writer. So very sad that his life ended so early as we the readers of his works will forever be poorer at the loss of this talented man.
- Uffda JE,
me too.
- camille,
I think the facists got him after all and that’s why he died at such a young age.
- Ed Oberweiser,
heart attack
What a brilliant writer. So very sad that his life ended so early as we the readers of his works will forever be poorer at the loss of this talented man.
- Uffda JE,
me too.
- camille,
I think the facists got him after all and that’s why he died at such a young age.
- Ed Oberweiser,
heart attack
I think it is disgraceful that his Father and Brother see it fit not to share the fruit of Larsson’s labour with his long life partner who would bear most of the brunt of the labour pains. His father does not sound like an honourable man to me. A real pity. As much as I love the books, it left a nasty taste in my mouth to realize that I am contributing my money to the riches of such a person.
- Ana,
colton wants your bodyNO way garrett wants your body
- colton garrett,
Was it really a heart attack or was he injected with something thatcauses one? Was this ever checked out? Too many right wingersetc. (kidnappers…as described in book 2, cruelty to women as describedin book 1, and others described in this brief biography) . What a shame,even if it was a legit heart attack.
- Karen,
Heart Attack age 50
- Rhonda,
It takes a very foolish, narrow
-minded person to refer to an entire country of people as being “definitely idiots”. The world does not hate EVERYONE from this country unless the world, too, is filled with idiots. While that may be the case, know that we aren’t all at the drawing board when some salacious Hollywood (Hollowwood, a well
-deserved nickname) big wheels make their insidious decisions about what scripts they’ll accept or what scripts they want written. There are plenty poor decisions made in those boardrooms and we suffer here from them as well.I personally agree that the original movie was well
-acted, directed, scripted and delivered and that it should suffice for the next 50 years. That’s when a new version may be wisely considered to make it more contemporary by present day standards.It’s unfortunate when people decide on an entire country’s population based on the doings of a few. Yes, there are a lot of folks who indulge in moronic behavior, just like in your respective countries. In the name of peace and graciousness, I make a point to speak on the behavior of the individual or group they represent. That said, I not call every white person a racist nor should every American be disregarded because they are from or live in this country. Peaceful awakenings…
- Treewizdom from USA ,
Americans are not idiots, I did see the swedish versions and loved them very much. Wish they didn’t take out so much, but they gave me the fix I needed after being saddend by finishing the books. I wish he could have done all ten! I’m an American and know that the American version won’t be as great as the Swedish versions but I am interested in seeing them none the less. Once again, another fix after being done reading the books. I hope the American versions will put back in the important parts that the Swedish versions removed.
- KMP,
I agree… So unfortunate that hollywood feels the need to try and steal the spotlight. Noomi was perfect as Lisbeth.
Mary,I read that his father and brother are fighting to keep all the profits,and this after he lived with Eva for over 30 years and his fatherbooted him to the grandparents, who sound fine.
- Karen,
I wondered the same thing. His death is like part of the plot of one of his novels. I presume Eva benefits from all the money his books are making. Very sad that he did not see his success.
- Mary,
I think it is disgraceful that his Father and Brother see it fit not to share the fruit of Larsson’s labour with his long life partner who would bear most of the brunt of the labour pains. His father does not sound like an honourable man to me. A real pity. As much as I love the books, it left a nasty taste in my mouth to realize that I am contributing my money to the riches of such a person.
- Ana,
colton wants your bodyNO way garrett wants your body
- colton garrett
stieg larsson had a very strong opinion witch bothered a lot of people who did’n share his opinion , the reason they did’n get married and she got nothing was mainly out of protection for her and mostly himself ,because if you where married in sweden you must give a adres ,witch would make it mutch easier to track down the couple
- millhouse vanhouten
As a straight person, I find your comment very relevant. Gay people have indeed the same problem in many places – you can live together for a lifetime, but when your partner passes, you’re not even family.
- swede
Jay and Ken:No offence dears, but you are silly little people.
- Eddie
Mary,I read that his father and brother are fighting to keep all the profits,and this after he lived with Eva for over 30 years and his fatherbooted him to the grandparents, who sound fine.
- Karen
I wondered the same thing. His death is like part of the plot of one of his novels. I presume Eva benefits from all the money his books are making. Very sad that he did not see his success.
- Mary,
Was it really a heart attack or was he injected with something thatcauses one? Was this ever checked out? Too many right wingersetc. (kidnappers…as described in book 2, cruelty to women as describedin book 1, and others described in this brief biography) . What a shame,even if it was a legit heart attack.
- Karen
Heart Attack age 50
- Rhonda,
I thought it was very hard to get thru The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, to much filler and stuff to read to get to the meat of the novel, and only a small part of the book was GREAT, The Girl Who Played With Fire was GREAT the whole way thru, just started The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet’s Nest and it starting out good.
- Carol C,
I thought it was very hard to get thru The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, to much filler and stuff to read to get to the meat of the novel, and only a small part of the book was GREAT, The Girl Who Played With Fire was GREAT the whole way thru, just started The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet’s Nest and it starting out good.
- Carol C,
Hic eram a Vir let us mourn
- John Monaghan,
i gave up reading novels a very long time ago until the girl with the dragon tattoo…
- black,
I found it very hard to stay with The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo,brought too manyfamiliar subjects to mind,but I could not leave the book alone.I just finished it and I feel robbed knowing there are only to books left. I am definitely going to read the other two .
- Barbra,
i gave up reading novels a very long time ago until the girl with the dragon tattoo…
- black,
I found it very hard to stay with The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo,brought too manyfamiliar subjects to mind,but I could not leave the book alone.I just finished it and I feel robbed knowing there are only to books left. I am definitely going to read the other two .
- Barbra,
I wish i had seen the movie before i read the book. The movie was really good but the book, The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, was even better. I have since read the other two books. I only wish Stieg could have lived longer so he could have written many more novels for all of us to read.
- carl crawford,
I couldn’t agree more…….Eva had every right to enjoy his success post humously…..a pity they didn’t get married. The father sounds like a real loser!!!!
- Larry,
I haven’t seen the American movie yet but I have recently watched the Swedish trilogy. They were full of “gruesome sex & violence” but so was the book. It was not just gratuitous violence but was in the context of the story and important for its integrity.
Absolutely loved his books. So sad that he is dead, so young.
Now I know that he wrote detective novels, I’m going to see if I can find them.
- Donna,
I just watched the movie of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo . . . I was wondering how much different it is from the novel, knowing how movies need to add more gruesome sex & violence. The movie left me thinking the whole world is sick if they enjoy this as entertainment. I think I would rather read the author’s autobiography (if there had been one) than his novels — he seems like an admirable character. Sadly, again the artist in his lifetime doesn’t profit from his art.
- Autumn Rjose,
Just seen the remake of ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’ – glad I read the book first, both brilliant!! Sadly, I’ve only got ‘The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest’ left to read … what will I do afterwards?!
- Claire W,
I agree that if he spent his life with Eva then she should have some measure of comfort from the sale of his stories. It is no secret that an author many times needs the love and care of another person to allow them the time, energy, and emotion to create. Now I am hating the idea that I bought the book and contributed to his fathers wealth. There has toenough to share??!!
- Celeste,
Haven’t seen the movies but have read the 1st two books and I also wish he had lived longer as I was so excited to have discovered a new author and was looking forward to reading all of his books.
- Carol smith,
Just seen the remake of ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’ – glad I read the book first, both brilliant!! Sadly, I’ve only got ‘The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest’ left to read … what will I do afterwards?!
- Claire W,
Haven’t seen the movies but have read the 1st two books and I also wish he had lived longer as I was so excited to have discovered a new author and was looking forward to reading all of his books.
- Carol smith
I agree that if he spent his life with Eva then she should have some measure of comfort from the sale of his stories. It is no secret that an author many times needs the love and care of another person to allow them the time, energy, and emotion to create. Now I am hating the idea that I bought the book and contributed to his fathers wealth. There has toenough to share??!!
- Celeste
What ever happened to his mother.?? All this publicity I hope will help Eva change some of the laws in Sweden concerning common law marriage. She has better be careful of his family hurting her. This would make a very good reality show in the U. S. A.
- Dolores,
I am 50 pages until the end of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. I DON’T WANT IT TO END!!! Thank goodness Stieg left 2 more to read, then what??????
- K.Walker,
MAGPIE I AGREE THE SWEDISH VERSION IS WAY FAR BETTER.
- JEN,
I started the series and it is really amazing. My math teacher also read the series so we talk about it sometimes. I also saw the movie with Daniel and Rooney, and I loved, LOVED, LOVED it! I haven’t seen the whole Swedish version though.
- Anders,
Heroic in the sense of controlling her ost base urges; the tattoo rasied the possibility that the ending of evil was more important than seeking total retribution. The tattoo was a form of behaviour control, that combined with other measures, ensured he would cease his activities. If being a hero is controlling the heart of darkness; then yes she is a hero in the mould of Conrad’s Marlowe.
- Chris –
Couldn’t agree more Cassie. I have always enjoyed reading but Stieg’s work rekindled my real love of reading great books.
- Neil (Australia),
What a multi-talented guy. His books are wonderful but why did they not become popular until so long after his death?
- carol smith, s
Hi there, i just finished watching the trilogy in swedish version and it’s amazing. a masterpice and the actors are brilliant. 5*
- Magpie,
Rereading the The GIRL WHO PLAYED WITH FIRE, i fell in love with the books all over again. Why did we have to lose such a wonderful author?
Magic! Every page captures the imagination.
- deb quinn,australia,
I am almost finished with The Girl With the Dragon Tatoo and loved it! Plan to read the other 2 next. He was a brilliant writer.
- Linda, Boynton Beach, FL,USA,
Just finished all three of the trilogy. I am in love with the author, his characters, his MIND.
- l. d. owen, USA,
I really enjoyed `The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo` and am now half-way through `The Girl who Played with Fire` with the same reaction; I don`t normally like books with too much detail but Stieg Larsson`s books are definately the exception.
- andrew,
This Trilogy is extremely important to watch, report and discuss in every institution and gov’t of the world. Stieg’s depicts the corruption, secrecy, and brutal abuse that still exist among humanity……….all countries. I believe Stieg’s work is a HEART BURNING PLEA to show people the TRUTH. I’m not surprised he died of a HEART ATTACK. His burning heart felt passion for people to LEARN who is really running the show would cause any human heart failure.
What’s happening with Eva now? Is she and his family benefiting from any of this work?
- Sally McGrew, Reno, NV,
I first learned of the Girl With The Dragon Tattoo in a review in people magazine. I have since read that book, the second The Girl Who Played With fire, and am starting the last book in the trilogy. I loved the first two couldn’t put them down. When I had to put them down I couldn’t wait to get back to it. I have downloaded them on my IPAD. I also saw the movie –The Girl with The Dragon Tattoo. It was so exciting and followed the book so closely.
- Peggy Sue,
Adore the books, the character Lisbeth Salander is brilliant what a legacy to leave behind such a pity he died so young.
- Grace Burgess,
I just finished reading the 3rd book in this wonderful trilogy and found them hard to put down. Now I understand there is a 4th book in this series that is yet to be finished. It seems his life partner, Eva, may finish it and publish? I will be watching for it.
- DJean – Oregon,
I have just finished the third book in the trilogy and wish there were more to follow. I think a very talented author’s life was cut short.
- Cindy B.-Nebraska,
I found the book difficult to read because of the unfimiliar words…purchased the book on tape and that made all the difference for me. A most intriging story, and now I want to “read/listen” to the next two.
- southernbelle,
perhaps as they were originally written and publish in Swedish hence the Swedish embtcaced his novels and films made leading to distribution in English
- Kate,
I first learned of the Girl With The Dragon Tattoo in a review in people magazine. I have since read that book, the second The Girl Who Played With fire, and am starting the last book in the trilogy. I loved the first two couldn’t put them down. When I had to put them down I couldn’t wait to get back to it. I have downloaded them on my IPAD. I also saw the movie –The Girl with The Dragon Tattoo. It was so exciting and followed the book so closely.
- Peggy Sue,
Adore the books, the character Lisbeth Salander is brilliant what a legacy to leave behind such a pity he died so young.
- Grace Burgess,
I just finished reading the 3rd book in this wonderful trilogy and found them hard to put down. Now I understand there is a 4th book in this series that is yet to be finished. It seems his life partner, Eva, may finish it and publish? I will be watching for it.
- DJean – Oregon,
I have just finished the third book in the trilogy and wish there were more to follow. I think a very talented author’s life was cut short.
- Cindy B.-Nebraska,
I found the book difficult to read because of the unfimiliar words…purchased the book on tape and that made all the difference for me. A most intriging story, and now I want to “read/listen” to the next two.
- southernbelle,
perhaps as they were originally written and publish in Swedish hence the Swedish embtcaced his novels and films made leading to distribution in English
- Kate,
I first learned of the Girl With The Dragon Tattoo in a review in people magazine. I have since read that book, the second The Girl Who Played With fire, and am starting the last book in the trilogy. I loved the first two couldn’t put them down. When I had to put them down I couldn’t wait to get back to it. I have downloaded them on my IPAD. I also saw the movie –The Girl with The Dragon Tattoo. It was so exciting and followed the book so closely.
- Peggy Sue,
I was just introduced to the trilogy of Larrson’s writings. I have a very difficult time putting the book down. It is so sad that he has died and I would have been one of is captive readers
- donna,
Hoe did he die?
I have just finished all 3 books, I still would like to know how he died, heart attack does not gel with me, a lot more to it than that.Brilliant books, maybe he got to close to the real truth, we will never know.
- Eileen Australia,
I am about to start on the third in his Millenium Trilogy and as an avid reader,can honestly say, I am completely and utterly ‘blown away’ by Stieg’s writing. I could not put down the first two books even cancelling other activities during this past week. His tragically early demise is an enormous loss to literature.
- Sheila, Liverpool, England,
Just days ago I finished the first book in this series, and rushed out to buy the second one. I was saddened when I read in the front of the book that Mr. Larsson had passed away before being able to see all of the benefits and enjoyment he has provided for the many readers.
Very talented man, and it sounds like he had good morals. Such a shame that he will not be around to create more masterpieces.
- Stacy Allen,
A brilliant writer. How sad that he did not live to benefit from the success of his fiction work. Was anything done for his partner, who seems not to have benefited either?
- Metellus Cimber,
Just days ago I finished the first book in this series, and rushed out to buy the second one. I was saddened when I read in the front of the book that Mr. Larsson had passed away before being able to see all of the benefits and enjoyment he has provided for the many readers.
Very talented man, and it sounds like he had good morals. Such a shame that he will not be around to create more masterpieces.
- Stacy Allen,
The most fascinating books I’ve ever read.
I will be looking forward to the fourth book when it is published.
I think it is very sad that Eva was left nothing when she had to go through so much for this man.
Life isn’t very fair and I hope that Stieg’s Father and Brother were good enough to give her a share of the fortune that must have been made out of these books
- Eddo,
The most fascinating books I’ve ever read.
I will be looking forward to the fourth book when it is published.
I think it is very sad that Eva was left nothing when she had to go through so much for this man.
Life isn’t very fair and I hope that Stieg’s Father and Brother were good enough to give her a share of the fortune that must have been made out of these books
- Eddo,
I was unaware of his private problems .I have just readThe girl with the dragon tattoo I couldn’t put it down I”ve got the next 2 on order & can’t wait for their delivery I always thought Sweden was democratic & neutral during ww2 Why wasn’t he protected .Is Eva still alive & does she get the royalties from book sales.German relatives of ours live in Sweden but we don’t know where
- Edith von der Heide,
I was unaware of his private problems .I have just readThe girl with the dragon tattoo I couldn’t put it down I”ve got the next 2 on order & can’t wait for their delivery I always thought Sweden was democratic & neutral during ww2 Why wasn’t he protected .Is Eva still alive & does she get the royalties from book sales.German relatives of ours live in Sweden but we don’t know where
- Edith von der Heide,
Its really a shame that he died. He was an amazing writer and clearly, a very well mannered man. I wish he could have created the ten books and maybe the world would have been enlightened. I, for one, am truly in love with Lisbeth’s personality and mental thinking. Shes clearly a very well thought out character and one who isn’t seen in every day life.
You will be missed Stieg Larsson.
- Lady In White,
He died shortly after submitting all three books to his publisher. So, I doubt he was rich while he was under constant threat…
- Just some info…,
Its really a shame that he died. He was an amazing writer and clearly, a very well mannered man. I wish he could have created the ten books and maybe the world would have been enlightened. I, for one, am truly in love with Lisbeth’s personality and mental thinking. Shes clearly a very well thought out character and one who isn’t seen in every day life.
You will be missed Stieg Larsson.
- Lady In White,
He died shortly after submitting all three books to his publisher. So, I doubt he was rich while he was under constant threat…
- Just some info…
It’s too bad he didn’t get to know about left-wing loonies too. Can’t blame him if the others were the only ones he had bad experiences with before he died. What did he think about the terrorists that caused 911? Did he have any sympathy for them? I enjoued his books though-couldn’t put the down at night!
- Virginia Connor,
Rudy, should a writer use less description when it comes to something like a computer which plays a key role in the character’s world? I assume you are referring to the Mac descriptions, because to be annoyed by Billy’s Pan Pizza would just be dumb. Maybe you should just put down the book and go drink a generic soda.
- Alisha, USA,
I just finished the 1st book and don’t remember and “product placement.” Motorcycle brand mentioned but that certainly isn’t unusual….can’t wait to get my hands on the ther two. I didn’t know he was deceased unti I read the back flap…shocked and sorry.
- mlou11331,
Avoiding the completion of the first book and the others is your loss.
- aytchkay, USA,