Plot Summary

When We Were Vikings

Andrew David MacDonald
Guide cover placeholder

When We Were Vikings

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019

Book Brief

Andrew David MacDonald

When We Were Vikings

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Contemporary

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

When We Were Vikings by Andrew David MacDonald follows 21-year-old Zelda, who loves Viking history and culture, and her brother Gert, who supports them both through dangerous means. When Zelda discovers Gert's actions, she decides to start her own money-making enterprise to help them, leading to significant consequences for both siblings. Themes include intellectual disabilities, abuse, and drug dealing.

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Emotional

Adventurous

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.1

13,915 ratings

69%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Andrew David MacDonald's When We Were Vikings is a heartfelt yet mixed-read debut. Praised for its unique protagonist and sensitive exploration of cognitive disability, the novel captivates with its empathy and humor. Critics note, however, that some plot elements feel contrived and the pacing uneven. Suitable for those seeking an inspiring, character-driven story.

Who should read this

Who Should Read When We Were Vikings?

When We Were Vikings by Andrew David MacDonald will captivate readers who enjoyed The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon or Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes. Those drawn to heartfelt, character-driven narratives exploring neurodiversity, resilience, and personal quests will find this novel profoundly moving.

4.1

13,915 ratings

69%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Contemporary

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!