Happy Boy by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson is a heartwarming and poignant coming-of-age story that follows the life of Oyvind, a young boy who grows up in the Norwegian countryside. As he navigates the ups and downs of adolescence, Oyvind remains optimistic and determined to lead a fulfilling life despite the challenges he faces.

The author's writing style is simple yet evocative, painting a vivid picture of rural Norwegian life during the 19th century. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the themes of love, loss, and perseverance resonate with readers of all ages.

Overall, Happy Boy is a beautifully written novel that captures the essence of youth and the power of hope. Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson's timeless story will stay with you long after you have finished reading, reminding you of the joys and struggles of growing up.

Book Description:
"A Happy Boy" was written in 1859 and 1860. It is, in my estimation, Bjørnson's best story of peasant life. In it the author has succeeded in drawing the characters with remarkable distinctness, while his profound psychological insight, his perfectly artless simplicity of style, and his thorough sympathy with the hero and his surroundings are nowhere more apparent. This view is sustained by the great popularity of "A Happy Boy" throughout Scandinavia. (From the Preface)

Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1903.