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”
I found all 3 books awe inspiring. I could not put them down, the way he wrote had you there with the characters and feeling all their emotions.
The best trilogy I have ever read – he was sheer genius, we have lost a great writer.
I hope the family do the right thing, I am sure it was what he would have wanted.
- PSeeley,
Remind me not to write a trillogy of books made into a movie series and die before their frutions.
- ,
I found all 3 books awe inspiring. I could not put them down, the way he wrote had you there with the characters and feeling all their emotions.
The best trilogy I have ever read – he was sheer genius, we have lost a great writer.
I hope the family do the right thing, I am sure it was what he would have wanted.
- PSeeley,
busy reading the girl who played with fire cant put it down, very good reading
- Maxine,
busy reading the girl who played with fire cant put it down, very good reading
- Maxine,
Just finished reading the third book in the series. Once I started reading each of the books I simply could not stop until the end
- molefe,
Try to see the Swedish movies, they were spectacular.
- Chris Williams,
Just finished reading the third book in the series. Once I started reading each of the books I simply could not stop until the end
- molefe,
Try to see the Swedish movies, they were spectacular.
- Chris Williams,
What a man! Kinda reminds me of van Gogh, gone too soon, before anyone knew of his tragic beauty except Theo and Eva? It would have really been creepy if he cut off his ear before eating so much pizza.
- Colm Heneghan,
What a man! Kinda reminds me of van Gogh, gone too soon, before anyone knew of his tragic beauty except Theo and Eva? It would have really been creepy if he cut off his ear before eating so much pizza.
- Colm Heneghan,
Blah, blah, blah, “a life under constant threat” — hogwash.
Or are the bad guys in Sweden too dumb to follow you home from work?
I, too, just finished the trilogy and feel so let down that there isn’t a fourth book to read. Any suggestions as to what to read next that might be as interesting as Steig Larsson’s books?
- Dianne Josephson,
Blah, blah, blah, “a life under constant threat” — hogwash.
Or are the bad guys in Sweden too dumb to follow you home from work?
I, too, just finished the trilogy and feel so let down that there isn’t a fourth book to read. Any suggestions as to what to read next that might be as interesting as Steig Larsson’s books?
- Dianne Josephson,
Good grief! Would that Larsson’s lean, hard-hitting prose rubbed off on more of his readers! I’ve never read such a disjointed, wandering, inchoate body of “comments” in my life. If you want to praise someone’s writing, at least take the time to ensure your own words make enough nominal sense to be understandable.
- spartacus,
Truly the best trilogy ever! What a story teller.. I’m going to miss Blomkvist and Salander…wish there was more…
- Annie,
Good grief! Would that Larsson’s lean, hard-hitting prose rubbed off on more of his readers! I’ve never read such a disjointed, wandering, inchoate body of “comments” in my life. If you want to praise someone’s writing, at least take the time to ensure your own words make enough nominal sense to be understandable.
- spartacus,
Truly the best trilogy ever! What a story teller.. I’m going to miss Blomkvist and Salander…wish there was more…
- Annie,
I have just finished the second book The girl who played with fire and can’t wait to start the 3rd. I found it very easy reading and I could put it down and pick it up and get right back into it. I am so sorry that there will not be any more book written, I have since heard that Larsson died.
- j. sundborg,
I have just finished the second book The girl who played with fire and can’t wait to start the 3rd. I found it very easy reading and I could put it down and pick it up and get right back into it. I am so sorry that there will not be any more book written, I have since heard that Larsson died.
- j. sundborg,
I hqave just finished the last of the trilogy and I enjoyed them so much, the first one i read in a day.He died to young.best wishes to his partner.
- M Steller. England,
Hi. I’m writing a university portfolio (which won’t be published) on law to retribution. The them of retaliation is obviously something very prominent in this book and film, no more so when Lisbeth tattoos “I am a sadistic pig, a pervert, and a rapist” on Nils’ torso. I’m curious, did this enhance her heroic status in your eyes or was it too much? I’d be very interested to hear you feedback. It’d be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
- Tom Bowles, England,
can’t agree more.
Also heard same rumour here in Ottawa, Canada. No clue if it is true or not.
- Bruce Wilson,
I hqave just finished the last of the trilogy and I enjoyed them so much, the first one i read in a day.He died to young.best wishes to his partner.
- M Steller. England,
Hi. I’m writing a university portfolio (which won’t be published) on law to retribution. The them of retaliation is obviously something very prominent in this book and film, no more so when Lisbeth tattoos “I am a sadistic pig, a pervert, and a rapist” on Nils’ torso. I’m curious, did this enhance her heroic status in your eyes or was it too much? I’d be very interested to hear you feedback. It’d be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
- Tom Bowles, England,
can’t agree more.
Also heard same rumour here in Ottawa, Canada. No clue if it is true or not.
- Bruce Wilson
I LOVED THE BOOKS SO MUCH, i AM HOPING stieg faked his death and is in some obscure hidoute.
- JADY,
I LOVED THE BOOKS SO MUCH, i AM HOPING stieg faked his death and is in some obscure hidoute.
- JADY,
Like many others, once I read the first novel – I HAD to read the other two! I have an immense sense of loss that there is no more. Vale to a wonderful writer, whose reputation will grow. The serious studies of his work have barely begun but regardless the pure enjoyment of his work will go on for centuries.
- Chris, Australia,,
Brilliant! His books are a collection of skillfully crafted plots and characters. His writing style is such that it is intelligent but maintains a simplicity that allows it to cross many demographics. His characters may seem to be a bit unbelievable to some…yet though out my life I have met at least one person who very nearly mirrors a character, for every character in the book.
Kudos Sir! Thank you for sharing your gift with us before you moved on.
- Bev, Canada,
Like many others, once I read the first novel – I HAD to read the other two! I have an immense sense of loss that there is no more. Vale to a wonderful writer, whose reputation will grow. The serious studies of his work have barely begun but regardless the pure enjoyment of his work will go on for centuries.
- Chris, Australia, 20 May 2011,
his three books are brilliant.i stop reading because i wish to prolong them
- jax,
Brilliant! His books are a collection of skillfully crafted plots and characters. His writing style is such that it is intelligent but maintains a simplicity that allows it to cross many demographics. His characters may seem to be a bit unbelievable to some…yet though out my life I have met at least one person who very nearly mirrors a character, for every character in the book.
Kudos Sir! Thank you for sharing your gift with us before you moved on.
- Bev, Canada,
his three books are brilliant.i stop reading because i wish to prolong them
- jax,
I think it ashame that his father and brother did not do right by Eva- taking all his money and leaving her with little. His brother and father are scoundrels in my book.
- zoe z,
YES! that raised her heroic status in my eyes to a new level! after her attack when she thought it would have been not near as bad i felt that her retaliation was well planned and perfectly carried out, with evidence to support her actions! go lisabeth
- Lauren Tengler,
Most entertaining books!! Too bad he didn.t enjoy a long life and reap the benefits of his works.
- barbara keene,
I think it ashame that his father and brother did not do right by Eva- taking all his money and leaving her with little. His brother and father are scoundrels in my book.
- zoe z,
YES! that raised her heroic status in my eyes to a new level! after her attack when she thought it would have been not near as bad i felt that her retaliation was well planned and perfectly carried out, with evidence to support her actions! go lisabeth
- Lauren Tengler
Most entertaining books!! Too bad he didn.t enjoy a long life and reap the benefits of his works.
- barbara keene,
I fell in love with Stieg Larsson–or rather his writing–when I read his first novel, THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO. His writing is beautiful–it couldn’t be translated so beautifully, if it were not–and his invention of the character Lisbeth Salander absolutely brilliant. His understanding of human nature in all its glory as well as all its horrors impressed me a great deal. And he could create a complex plot, reminiscent of Elizabeth writers, with their subplots adding to the main plot. I assume that his own character was merged in the character of Mikael Blomkvist, journalist par excellent, and perhaps his and Berger’s relationship was based on his long commitment to his own Eva. I thoroughly enjoyed all three novels and mourn not only Stieg Larsson’s death but also the absence of any future novels penned by him. In reading the above biographical sketch about him, I realize that he stood for all the principles I uphold and opposed what I too oppose. I only wish I’d been able to meet him and share a long coffee break with him.
- Laney Langtry,
Absolutely loved the books…there’s no one quite like Lisbeth Salander. Brilliant characterisation!
- R Lee,
I fell in love with Stieg Larsson–or rather his writing–when I read his first novel, THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO. His writing is beautiful–it couldn’t be translated so beautifully, if it were not–and his invention of the character Lisbeth Salander absolutely brilliant. His understanding of human nature in all its glory as well as all its horrors impressed me a great deal. And he could create a complex plot, reminiscent of Elizabeth writers, with their subplots adding to the main plot. I assume that his own character was merged in the character of Mikael Blomkvist, journalist par excellent, and perhaps his and Berger’s relationship was based on his long commitment to his own Eva. I thoroughly enjoyed all three novels and mourn not only Stieg Larsson’s death but also the absence of any future novels penned by him. In reading the above biographical sketch about him, I realize that he stood for all the principles I uphold and opposed what I too oppose. I only wish I’d been able to meet him and share a long coffee break with him.
- Laney Langtry,
Absolutely loved the books…there’s no one quite like Lisbeth Salander. Brilliant characterisation!
- R Lee,
I absolutely love the books! I read the first one in 3 days! The second one I read in 5 days. Hopefully I will be able to get the third one soon so I can start reading again. I haven’t read this much since my sophomore year of high school and I’m going in my sophomore year of college. This book helped me remember how much I really do love reading.
- Cassie Wright,
I would agree with the sentiment that his father and brother did not do right by Eva
- She should have got all his money
- rightfully its hers. Yeap, when money arrives at the scene, people forget about the word ‘fair’
- Diddi Johnson,
I absolutely love the books! I read the first one in 3 days! The second one I read in 5 days. Hopefully I will be able to get the third one soon so I can start reading again. I haven’t read this much since my sophomore year of high school and I’m going in my sophomore year of college. This book helped me remember how much I really do love reading.
- Cassie Wright,
I would agree with the sentiment that his father and brother did not do right by Eva
- She should have got all his money
- rightfully its hers. Yeap, when money arrives at the scene, people forget about the word ‘fair’
- Diddi Johnson,
Stieg buddy how I wish you had lived longer madhav
- MADHAV India,
Fantastic books and his memory lives with every page I read!!
- Nancy Power,
Stieg buddy how I wish you had lived longer madhav
- MADHAV India,
Fantastic books and his memory lives with every page I read!!
- Nancy Power,
I wish I knew him earlier….I wish I knew Swedish so that I can read all his works..it’s only 7 years after his death that I got to know him. I admire his bravery. .. I am mourning since I read all the three books.
- Valene,
I wish I knew him earlier….I wish I knew Swedish so that I can read all his works..it’s only 7 years after his death that I got to know him. I admire his bravery. .. I am mourning since I read all the three books.
- Valene,
Stieg Larsson was as brillant as his character Lisbeth Salander! I am an avid reader of fictional mystery and drama on a daily basis. I’m currently on his second book and will immediately dive into the third and final one. I’m so sorry that we will have no more of his brillant writing to read, but I’m looking forward to seeing the English language version of the movie of his first book of Salander coming out in December 2011. Rest In Peace Stieg. You have certainly given me a world of enjoyable reading.
- Dorothea,
I so agree with you on the choice to stick with the storyline…I am going to buy the DVD when available.
- Jill P.,
Stieg Larsson was as brillant as his character Lisbeth Salander! I am an avid reader of fictional mystery and drama on a daily basis. I’m currently on his second book and will immediately dive into the third and final one. I’m so sorry that we will have no more of his brillant writing to read, but I’m looking forward to seeing the English language version of the movie of his first book of Salander coming out in December 2011. Rest In Peace Stieg. You have certainly given me a world of enjoyable reading.
- Dorothea,
I so agree with you on the choice to stick with the storyline…I am going to buy the DVD when available.
- Jill P.
It seems as though he was so much more than an author. If only the left could take care of business like the right.
- Ny,
It seems as though he was so much more than an author. If only the left could take care of business like the right.
- Ny,
Such a great shame that he did not live to see the great success of his work, or maybe of his hobby. I must admit that I almost gave up on his first novel…I put it away for a few weeks then I tried again when I had more time to spend with it…I’m so glad I did!!! I loved it…and I have just finished the 2nd in less than 2 days!!!!!!!!! Not a lot was done in our house !!!! I’m now looking for number 3….but as we live in rural France ( very rural ) and we are English this is posing a problem!!! Never mind….I’ll find it….have to know how Lisbeth recovers and hope that she and Kalle find happiness together. xx
- katyliz,
Such a great shame that he did not live to see the great success of his work, or maybe of his hobby. I must admit that I almost gave up on his first novel…I put it away for a few weeks then I tried again when I had more time to spend with it…I’m so glad I did!!! I loved it…and I have just finished the 2nd in less than 2 days!!!!!!!!! Not a lot was done in our house !!!! I’m now looking for number 3….but as we live in rural France ( very rural ) and we are English this is posing a problem!!! Never mind….I’ll find it….have to know how Lisbeth recovers and hope that she and Kalle find happiness together. xx
- katyliz,
A wonderful trilogy and such a shame for the world that he died so suddenly. I devoured the books in 3 days, all of them..
It is very nasty of the father and brother not letting his companion, Eva, have any money from the books. She was with Stieg for 15 years! It’s not as if she was a one night stand! It shows them in a very bad light indeed and I am sure that Stieg would be appalled. Greed is not a nice thing and they have shown it in spades.
- Helen,
it isn’t a Holywood flm, they are wanting to do a remake, however. The origial Swedish film will remain the best, there is no Hollywood actress that could do a better ‘Lisbeth’Great film, can’t wait to read the books, excited for the sequeal and not sure if I will go watch the Hollywood remake.
-
-Nikki E.,
im not so much looking forward to the English version myself. its just stupid that us AMERICANS have to go in and put our two sinse in… i loved the sweedish movies, i can’t stop watching them. but as far as i see it, they picked awful actors, that dont even look, sound, act, like there charictors. but on the other hand, im still going to go watch it just to see how we saw it through our eyes.
- Ashlee,
A wonderful trilogy and such a shame for the world that he died so suddenly. I devoured the books in 3 days, all of them..
It is very nasty of the father and brother not letting his companion, Eva, have any money from the books. She was with Stieg for 15 years! It’s not as if she was a one night stand! It shows them in a very bad light indeed and I am sure that Stieg would be appalled. Greed is not a nice thing and they have shown it in spades.
- Helen,
im not so much looking forward to the English version myself. its just stupid that us AMERICANS have to go in and put our two sinse in… i loved the sweedish movies, i can’t stop watching them. but as far as i see it, they picked awful actors, that dont even look, sound, act, like there charictors. but on the other hand, im still going to go watch it just to see how we saw it through our eyes.
- Ashlee,
it isn’t a Holywood flm, they are wanting to do a remake, however. The origial Swedish film will remain the best, there is no Hollywood actress that could do a better ‘Lisbeth’Great film, can’t wait to read the books, excited for the sequeal and not sure if I will go watch the Hollywood remake.
-
-Nikki E.,
I am hoping that Eva will continue and complete a forth novel. I am sure that she was instrumental in helping Stieg in his writing the former 3 books! They are wonderful!!!!
- Esther Kirdani,
I am hoping that Eva will continue and complete a forth novel. I am sure that she was instrumental in helping Stieg in his writing the former 3 books! They are wonderful!!!!
- Esther Kirdani,
I heard that he was running upstairs and died of a heart attack.Is this true or was he murdered.
- jackie macey,
I totally agree!
I heard that he was running upstairs and died of a heart attack.Is this true or was he murdered.
- jackie macey,
I totally agree!
I HAVE ONLY READ HIS SECOND BOOK, THE GIRL WHO PLAYED WITH FIRE AND WAS IMPRESSED WITH HIS WRITING; I PLAN TO READ THE OTHER TWO BOOKS FROM HIS TRIOLOGY.
- KAL.,
I HAVE ONLY READ HIS SECOND BOOK, THE GIRL WHO PLAYED WITH FIRE AND WAS IMPRESSED WITH HIS WRITING; I PLAN TO READ THE OTHER TWO BOOKS FROM HIS TRIOLOGY.
- KAL.,
Searching for information about whether a fouth book will be coming. Was there a fourth manuscript still on Stieg’s computer? Lisbeth’s twin is a character that hasn’t surfaced yet.
- Judy,
Searching for information about whether a fouth book will be coming. Was there a fourth manuscript still on Stieg’s computer? Lisbeth’s twin is a character that hasn’t surfaced yet.
- Judy,
So interesting would love to read more about his ife and Eva Gabrielsson. I just love his Novels and so sad that he is no longer with us in this world to write more!
- LJ H,
NEAL
-OHIO
- I WOULD LOVE TO SEE THE 4TH BOOK PUBLISHE D
-I CAN’T WAIT TO READ THE 3RD ONE AS HIS STORY IS ONE ON THE BEST EVER! .,
Steig was a master at keeping all his characters connected and balanced his exiting stories with impeccable timing. He reminds me of the quality style of writing of Golding and Harold Robbins.
- Tom Garvey,
So interesting would love to read more about his ife and Eva Gabrielsson. I just love his Novels and so sad that he is no longer with us in this world to write more!
- LJ H,
NEAL
-OHIO
- I WOULD LOVE TO SEE THE 4TH BOOK PUBLISHE D
-I CAN’T WAIT TO READ THE 3RD ONE AS HIS STORY IS ONE ON THE BEST EVER! .,
Steig was a master at keeping all his characters connected and balanced his exiting stories with impeccable timing. He reminds me of the quality style of writing of Golding and Harold Robbins.
- Tom Garvey,
I find it pecular that you descibe neo-nazi as far right not far left. In the U.S. captalism is the far right and fasism and nazism (IE GOVERMENT CONTROL) are the progress left.
- norski52,
wow, what a shame for you, Ms. Virginia. there aren’t relation between 911 with left
-wing movement. Al
-Qaeda only terrorist with wrong religion mindset. every people hate injustice and evil.
- Daniel,
Wow! It’s a book people, chill. It is mostly fiction with a little truth in history here and there. Not saying that it couldn’t be real because it could. Let’s just enjoy an amazing work of fiction and leave the politics and religion for another debate. Don’t we get enough of that in the real world?
- Joanna,
Before the Crusades, “Moslems,” as they were called (same pronounciation but different spelling) would get along just fine with the Christians and any religion/faiths to the point that when they had Jerusalem in their power, they would allow any pilgrimmage from any faith to freely pray – excpet they did have to pay tax for this. When the Turks, however, got hold of Jerusalem, this is where the problem starts. The Turks doesn’t allow any Christians and others in Jersualem. This is when the Christians wanted to get Jeruslam back – It is where Christ was crucified, so it is a special place for them – Hence, they wanted to kill for God.(I had learned all of this information…If I am wrong, it’s okay, I am not here to argue or to impose anything on you people, just expressing what I had learned – I was just reading your comments on religion and wanted to express this)I wonder where this went from discussing a book – to religion. but anyway, Dragon tatto was assigned to me to read for class and it was a good book.
- M,
Yuck, I dislike all extremist positions and Christians are certainly not immune to that problem along with many, many other religions. I am still not covinced that organized religion does more good than harm. And that is crap about 9
-11 and left wing extremists. Where do you get your information? From Fox (invented) News?
- Mermaid,
I also listened to Eva Gabriellsson on NPR today. She said on the show that she has written a book “What I want you to Know about Stieg Larsson and me.”
- MDD,
I agree with you ben. All of this hate towards americans when really it is just hollywood doing something you dissagree with. So direct your hate else where. As for the remake I am in love with the swedish version and i adore Noomi for her protrale of Lisbeth but at the same time I am excited to be able to just watch the movie instead of having to read the movie. And voice overs blow so i refuse to allow my self to watch someones mouth moving and the words not follow. The only thing i wish is that they did was cut Rooney Maras hair to fit the part better or at least give her a better wing. I love the way Noomi had here hair for this. Plus Noomi pin pointed Lisbeths charater perfectly. She isnt too sexy but at the same time can be someone a girl/guy would love to date.
- Daniella,
DITTO
- A.WATTS,
i wish i hadn’t read these comments – kinda ruined it for me to learn the ending
- g roberts,
…agree.. sorry.
- David,
Im agee with you, Younger Canadian Viking…
- David,
Steig was correct in being afraid of the radicals from the right. In sunny Florida of all places a state Senator (Nancy Argenziano) just revealed in our press that we have what amounts to nothing less than another Boss Tweed gang or 30?s style political manipulating. Evidently, She was present when a select number of republican elected officials along with lobbyists and industry backers decided what issues would be voted on and who among their numbers would be rewarded with reelection support or not. Nancy if you want to bust this group some of us will certainly support you.
- ReformParty Anyone,
I have read his books seen the movies and enjoyed them all. Today, there was an interview with his life long companion -Eva Gabrielsson on NPR. Her story relating his families take over of Steigs property upon his death is tragic. One has to wonder if they had been married – would things have turned out differently. Eva also related that his laptop had been taken and on it there were perhaps 200 pages of the fourth novel in his series. Steig’s family were pursuing the right to obtain and legally seperate Eva from any claim to this material. One thing is certain the theme of sex and violence portrayed in the Swedish culture is shocking as is the criminal element in their governments security forces. His strong anti-fascist, anti war sentiment rings thru out all three novels. Perhaps someday Eva will be able to see herself completing Steigs last novel in this series for us avid fans.
- WJM IV,
I find it pecular that you descibe neo-nazi as far right not far left. In the U.S. captalism is the far right and fasism and nazism (IE GOVERMENT CONTROL) are the progress left.
- norski52,
wow, what a shame for you, Ms. Virginia. there aren’t relation between 911 with left
-wing movement. Al
-Qaeda only terrorist with wrong religion mindset. every people hate injustice and evil.
- Daniel,
Wow! It’s a book people, chill. It is mostly fiction with a little truth in history here and there. Not saying that it couldn’t be real because it could. Let’s just enjoy an amazing work of fiction and leave the politics and religion for another debate. Don’t we get enough of that in the real world?
- Joanna,
Before the Crusades, “Moslems,” as they were called (same pronounciation but different spelling) would get along just fine with the Christians and any religion/faiths to the point that when they had Jerusalem in their power, they would allow any pilgrimmage from any faith to freely pray – excpet they did have to pay tax for this. When the Turks, however, got hold of Jerusalem, this is where the problem starts. The Turks doesn’t allow any Christians and others in Jersualem. This is when the Christians wanted to get Jeruslam back – It is where Christ was crucified, so it is a special place for them – Hence, they wanted to kill for God.(I had learned all of this information…If I am wrong, it’s okay, I am not here to argue or to impose anything on you people, just expressing what I had learned – I was just reading your comments on religion and wanted to express this)I wonder where this went from discussing a book – to religion. but anyway, Dragon tatto was assigned to me to read for class and it was a good book.
- M,
Yuck, I dislike all extremist positions and Christians are certainly not immune to that problem along with many, many other religions. I am still not covinced that organized religion does more good than harm. And that is crap about 9
-11 and left wing extremists. Where do you get your information? From Fox (invented) News?
- Mermaid,
Wonder if there are men who hate women in the above posts (sic), or for that matter women who hate women. Food for thought
- dotparka,
DITTO
- A.WATTS,
i wish i hadn’t read these comments – kinda ruined it for me to learn the ending
- g roberts,
I also listened to Eva Gabriellsson on NPR today. She said on the show that she has written a book “What I want you to Know about Stieg Larsson and me.”
- MDD,
…agree.. sorry.
- David,
Im agee with you, Younger Canadian Viking…
- David,
Steig was correct in being afraid of the radicals from the right. In sunny Florida of all places a state Senator (Nancy Argenziano) just revealed in our press that we have what amounts to nothing less than another Boss Tweed gang or 30?s style political manipulating. Evidently, She was present when a select number of republican elected officials along with lobbyists and industry backers decided what issues would be voted on and who among their numbers would be rewarded with reelection support or not. Nancy if you want to bust this group some of us will certainly support you.
- ReformParty Anyone,
I have read his books seen the movies and enjoyed them all. Today, there was an interview with his life long companion -Eva Gabrielsson on NPR. Her story relating his families take over of Steigs property upon his death is tragic. One has to wonder if they had been married – would things have turned out differently. Eva also related that his laptop had been taken and on it there were perhaps 200 pages of the fourth novel in his series. Steig’s family were pursuing the right to obtain and legally seperate Eva from any claim to this material. One thing is certain the theme of sex and violence portrayed in the Swedish culture is shocking as is the criminal element in their governments security forces. His strong anti-fascist, anti war sentiment rings thru out all three novels. Perhaps someday Eva will be able to see herself completing Steigs last novel in this series for us avid fans.
- WJM IV,
Best. Writer I have read in my lifetime
- jo pronger,
That’c because Europeans have some knowledge of real politics and most Americans are morons when it comes to politcs
- sjn,
Best. Writer I have read in my lifetime
- jo pronger,
That’c because Europeans have some knowledge of real politics and most Americans are morons when it comes to politcs
- sjn,
I wonder who wrote this text. It is not grammatically correct.
- Agnes,
have just finished the millenium trilogy, have had to force myself to stop reading at bedtime. this mans story’s are FANTASTIC and believable “almost”111
- barry kelly,
I wonder who wrote this text. It is not grammatically correct.
- Agnes,
have just finished the millenium trilogy, have had to force myself to stop reading at bedtime. this mans story’s are FANTASTIC and believable “almost”111
- barry kelly,
Where does fiction begin and truth end?
- Polly,
Where does fiction begin and truth end?
- Polly,
I just finished the trilogy. The best books i have read in many years. I wish there was more……
- Sue,
I just finished the trilogy. The best books i have read in many years. I wish there was more……
- Sue,
One thing that seens obvious to me is that this man’s “heart attack” doesn’t seem to have been questioned. Surely in this day and age, there are ways and means to stage a “heart attack” and given that both Stieg and Eva lived in constant threat, it is extremely possible that someone somewhere wanted to end his life.
Also, I was very disappointed that the movie of the first novel left out so much important detail. It would have better served to make a series of movies relating to the first novel as every page in this book was important and didn’t deserve to be brushed aside in the haste to make a generalised movie of this book.
- js.aussie,
One thing that seens obvious to me is that this man’s “heart attack” doesn’t seem to have been questioned. Surely in this day and age, there are ways and means to stage a “heart attack” and given that both Stieg and Eva lived in constant threat, it is extremely possible that someone somewhere wanted to end his life.
Also, I was very disappointed that the movie of the first novel left out so much important detail. It would have better served to make a series of movies relating to the first novel as every page in this book was important and didn’t deserve to be brushed aside in the haste to make a generalised movie of this book.
- js.aussie,
Finished reading the trilogy two days back. Can’t believe there’s no more of it. The impact is such that it will never last. Wonderful characters.
- Nishant.,
Finished reading the trilogy two days back. Can’t believe there’s no more of it. The impact is such that it will never last. Wonderful characters.
- Nishant.,
Reading the final book of the Millennium Series. Just can’t grasp the fact that after this, they’ll be no more.
- Mandisa,
He was so good, life is short he did his own part in his short life. Sorry for his
wife and family for losing him. But his good work compensate them.
- Jane,
Reading the final book of the Millennium Series. Just can’t grasp the fact that after this, they’ll be no more.
- Mandisa,
He was so good, life is short he did his own part in his short life. Sorry for his
wife and family for losing him. But his good work compensate them.
- Jane,
Love the trilogy. Best series ever.
- Genny Kline,
He was an extraordinary writer and journalist. Is his “life companion” still alive??
- Mary New,
I had the same issue.. movies always seem to fall short of its predecessor.
- J. Jericevich,
Love the trilogy. Best series ever.
- Genny Kline,
He was an extraordinary writer and journalist. Is his “life companion” still alive??
- Mary New,
I had the same issue.. movies always seem to fall short of its predecessor.
- J. Jericevich
I have read all three books and each one was better than the one before. Could not put them down. So sad to think there will not be any more books from Stieg Larsson.
- Jenny Kukard,
Yes, she is. She just wrote a book called “There Are Things I Want You to Know? About Stieg Larsson and Me.?
- Juliana,
I have thought that many a time.
- Must be uneducated,
Probably the best books I have read in many years! So well plotted.
- Carita Gould,
I have read all three books and each one was better than the one before. Could not put them down. So sad to think there will not be any more books from Stieg Larsson.
- Jenny Kukard,
Yes, she is. She just wrote a book called “There Are Things I Want You to Know? About Stieg Larsson and Me.?
- Juliana
I have thought that many a time.
- Must be uneducated
Probably the best books I have read in many years! So well plotted.
- Carita Gould,
I already read 2 books of Millennium Trilogyand I loved them…I read till 3 am wanting to know the end!!!
To sad to know that he pass away….I admire a person like him giving the fight agains racism and extreme right party.
Now that I know more about him I understand why he writes the way he used in the trilogy series…..mmmm he’s a great writer.
HOme more people follow him to expose so many cover subject that ruin human beings.
- Soledad Avila,
I am 62 years old and a good bookworm dont know why but although I usually prefer crime thrillers thought your books were about vampires or satanists soo I read your books only recently and non stop.. loved the theme atmosphere characters and wit i’m reading the turkish version and I must say translation is superb .. will the books line up after the trilogy thank you for the books
- enis,
One day the world will look back on people who fight for so-called “unjust” right wing views and wish they had paid them more attention. There are heroes on the “other side” as well, ordinary people who do not wish to spread hatred but simply want to preserve a race and culture that is now in danger of disappearing due to modern ignorance.
- Anne Rabie,
Maybe you should do a little research. Just because Socialism was a part of the name doesn’t mean it has much to do with what is typically considered “Left”. Nazism is a variety of fascism and has always been considered a far right form of politics. But please, showcase your ignorance to the world.
- Me,
I already read 2 books of Millennium Trilogyand I loved them…I read till 3 am wanting to know the end!!!
To sad to know that he pass away….I admire a person like him giving the fight agains racism and extreme right party.
Now that I know more about him I understand why he writes the way he used in the trilogy series…..mmmm he’s a great writer.
HOme more people follow him to expose so many cover subject that ruin human beings.
- Soledad Avila,
I am 62 years old and a good bookworm dont know why but although I usually prefer crime thrillers thought your books were about vampires or satanists soo I read your books only recently and non stop.. loved the theme atmosphere characters and wit i’m reading the turkish version and I must say translation is superb .. will the books line up after the trilogy thank you for the books
- enis,
One day the world will look back on people who fight for so-called “unjust” right wing views and wish they had paid them more attention. There are heroes on the “other side” as well, ordinary people who do not wish to spread hatred but simply want to preserve a race and culture that is now in danger of disappearing due to modern ignorance.
- Anne Rabie,
Maybe you should do a little research. Just because Socialism was a part of the name doesn’t mean it has much to do with what is typically considered “Left”. Nazism is a variety of fascism and has always been considered a far right form of politics. But please, showcase your ignorance to the world.
- Me,
I absolutely loved the books and have finished reading them for the second time.
- Rosie,
I absolutely loved the books and have finished reading them for the second time.
- Rosie,
I am absolutely floored that Stieg Larsson came out of nowhere and presented three bestsellers like he did. I just couldn’t wait to read the next one. A new ‘favourite’ author. Such a shame he did not live to see what a success his books were. Stellar writing.
- Linda M,
I am absolutely floored that Stieg Larsson came out of nowhere and presented three bestsellers like he did. I just couldn’t wait to read the next one. A new ‘favourite’ author. Such a shame he did not live to see what a success his books were. Stellar writing.
- Linda M,
The last page of the last book made me cry. It should have been the beginning of a prolific career….Yet these 3 books have made people aware of racism and domestic violence….and why didn’t he publish one book at a time? Did he foresee
his fate? RIP.
- Symone Faulkner,
The last page of the last book made me cry. It should have been the beginning of a prolific career….Yet these 3 books have made people aware of racism and domestic violence….and why didn’t he publish one book at a time? Did he foresee
his fate? RIP.
- Symone Faulkner,
I just finished barreling through the 3rd book. I couldn’t stop reading. Electrifying! So sad that he died so young. Also sad that there will be no more books. There could be many more books with all the characters that were introduced . I hope the family can work sonething out.
- Linda J. Minnesota USA,
I just finished barreling through the 3rd book. I couldn’t stop reading. Electrifying! So sad that he died so young. Also sad that there will be no more books. There could be many more books with all the characters that were introduced . I hope the family can work sonething out.
- Linda J. Minnesota USA,
Mr. Larsson not only excelled as a writer, he excelled as a human being. May his work as a advocate for equality and human rights be continued by his admirers as well as his contribution to the world of books.
- Patricia White USA,
‘race’… oh dear! Then it’s your responsibility to spend your life advocating and explaining the characteristics of said ‘race’ at base level: with ordinary people who want to know, or should know but are vunerable and need approaching without arrogance or pride, righteousness or aggression. Are you prepared to do that? If you are not then you have no justification in saying that something might disappear due to modern ignorance. It will disappear due to lazyness and lack of passion on your part.
- SJohnson, UK,
Mr. Larsson not only excelled as a writer, he excelled as a human being. May his work as a advocate for equality and human rights be continued by his admirers as well as his contribution to the world of books.
- Patricia White USA,
‘race’… oh dear! Then it’s your responsibility to spend your life advocating and explaining the characteristics of said ‘race’ at base level: with ordinary people who want to know, or should know but are vunerable and need approaching without arrogance or pride, righteousness or aggression. Are you prepared to do that? If you are not then you have no justification in saying that something might disappear due to modern ignorance. It will disappear due to lazyness and lack of passion on your part.
- SJohnson, UK,
To think there is never going to be anymore about Lisbeth or Blomkvist and their exploits… what a devastating blow. As a mother of 4 in the UK these books are inspirational on so many levels. As a crime series – gripping. As a feminist advocate – truly divine. And as a advertisment for Sweden – better than any travel book. For all ‘different’ people out there – supportive and informative. Stieg was obviously insightful, integral, kind and understanding of women and any ‘victims’ in society (not necessarly women). Truly life changing books for me – it is time to stop judging and start thinking, even when things might appear ‘so’. If you weren’t there – you just don’t know. Such a pity he’g gone.
- SJohnson, UK,
So, does anyone else think the first book could in theory stand alone? though there are some background things that aren’t answered it’s true, hey it’s a mystery, and I think the first book has a definite ending. i thought it had a different tone somewhat than the other two books, and the last two books clearly need eachother, they really read like one long book…any opinions, I’ve been debating this with someone who insists I’m totally off base…
- missuspickypins, USA,
I.m not sure which I admire most…The brilliant writer,or the activist who dared to put his life on the line for human justice!What an amazing,inspiring man!!!How said that he was taken from the world so soon! It is doubtful that we would see his like again.Rest in peace,Stieg!
- Shirley Wheaton,
To think there is never going to be anymore about Lisbeth or Blomkvist and their exploits… what a devastating blow. As a mother of 4 in the UK these books are inspirational on so many levels. As a crime series – gripping. As a feminist advocate – truly divine. And as a advertisment for Sweden – better than any travel book. For all ‘different’ people out there – supportive and informative. Stieg was obviously insightful, integral, kind and understanding of women and any ‘victims’ in society (not necessarly women). Truly life changing books for me – it is time to stop judging and start thinking, even when things might appear ‘so’. If you weren’t there – you just don’t know. Such a pity he’g gone.
- SJohnson, UK,
So, does anyone else think the first book could in theory stand alone? though there are some background things that aren’t answered it’s true, hey it’s a mystery, and I think the first book has a definite ending. i thought it had a different tone somewhat than the other two books, and the last two books clearly need eachother, they really read like one long book…any opinions, I’ve been debating this with someone who insists I’m totally off base…
- missuspickypins, USA,
I.m not sure which I admire most…The brilliant writer,or the activist who dared to put his life on the line for human justice!What an amazing,inspiring man!!!How said that he was taken from the world so soon! It is doubtful that we would see his like again.Rest in peace,Stieg!
- Shirley Wheaton,
I read myself blind.
- L A Trout,
I have found his triology the best, most confusing at times and interesting books I ever read.
- Maxine G. Bordigon,
I AGREE!
- SUSAN,
Just finished The Girl with the Dragon Tatoo – absolutely thrilling. Loved Salander – great re-reads when I finish the other 2 that I have on Kindle
- D L Shaut USA,
just finished reading Hornets Nest. loved the trilogy!! Will probably
re-read them in the future. Just like a good movie that you want to see again and
again.
- sammi/US,
I read myself blind.
- L A Trout,
I have found his triology the best, most confusing at times and interesting books I ever read.
- Maxine G. Bordigon,
I AGREE!
- SUSAN,
Just finished The Girl with the Dragon Tatoo – absolutely thrilling. Loved Salander – great re-reads when I finish the other 2 that I have on Kindle
- D L Shaut USA,
just finished reading Hornets Nest. loved the trilogy!! Will probably
re-read them in the future. Just like a good movie that you want to see again and
again.
- sammi/US,
Mesmerised, thrilled a…and now devastated
- allan challenger,
Mesmerised, thrilled a…and now devastated
- allan challenger,
Absolutely the most gripping of all the mystery/murder stories I have ever read. Just finished the “the girl kicked the Hornet’s Nest” and wanted to cry because there would be no more from this brillant young author.
Should be required reading – lessons in racism and violence against women as well as the fruits of corruption and absolute power are very powerful componets of these books.
- Sara Smith,
Absolutely the most gripping of all the mystery/murder stories I have ever read. Just finished the “the girl kicked the Hornet’s Nest” and wanted to cry because there would be no more from this brillant young author.
Should be required reading – lessons in racism and violence against women as well as the fruits of corruption and absolute power are very powerful componets of these books.
- Sara Smith,
I can’t say enough good things about this series of books; in fact, the only bad thing that I can think of is that there will be no more works from this amazing author.
- Peggy Martin,
I can’t say enough good things about this series of books; in fact, the only bad thing that I can think of is that there will be no more works from this amazing author.
- Peggy Martin,
best books i have ever read and i am 83 tears old.
- dortha tatum,
he smoked 60 cigarettes a day he had poor health and he walked up the stairs everyday because the elevator was broken at his work so he had a major heart attack.
- Eli,
I agree. I am waiting for the 3rd book and hope to pick it up tomorrow.
best books i have ever read and i am 83 tears old.
- dortha tatum,
he smoked 60 cigarettes a day he had poor health and he walked up the stairs everyday because the elevator was broken at his work so he had a major heart attack.
- Eli,
I agree. I am waiting for the 3rd book and hope to pick it up tomorrow.
one of the best series of books i have ever read, to bad he is not around to write more.
one of the best series of books i have ever read, to bad he is not around to write more.
I actually got The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo at a garage sale and it was the best purchase I’ve done in years! What I’m looking forward to is having a reading round up at my college in ten hours. I’m just doing some last minute research and this man amazes me. It would have been a privilege to meet this man.
- Crystal D.,
I actually got The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo at a garage sale and it was the best purchase I’ve done in years! What I’m looking forward to is having a reading round up at my college in ten hours. I’m just doing some last minute research and this man amazes me. It would have been a privilege to meet this man.
- Crystal D.,
I actually got The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo at a garage sale and it was the best purchase I’ve done in years! What I’m looking forward to is having a reading round up at my college in ten hours. I’m just doing some last minute research and this man amazes me. It would have been a privilege to meet this man.
- Crystal D.,
I actually got The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo at a garage sale and it was the best purchase I’ve done in years! What I’m looking forward to is having a reading round up at my college in ten hours. I’m just doing some last minute research and this man amazes me. It would have been a privilege to meet this man.
- Crystal D.,
I am on the last book and I do not want it to end! Absolutely one of the best writers, his works will live on for, well no doubt forever.
- Katrina S.,
I am on the last book and I do not want it to end! Absolutely one of the best writers, his works will live on for, well no doubt forever.
- Katrin