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The Book of I
A brilliant Scottish debut, shortlisted for the Highland Book Prize and the Bookmark Book Festival Book of the Year.
825: In the aftermath of a vicious attack by raiders from the north, an unlikely trio finds themselves the lone survivors on a remote Scottish isle. Still breathing are young Brother Martin, the only resident of the local monastery to escape martyrdom; Una, a beekeeper and mead maker who has been relieved of her violent husband during the slaughter; and Grimur, an aging Norseman who claws his way out of the hasty grave his fellow raiders left him in, thinking him dead.
As the seasons pass in this wild and lonely setting, their inherent distrust of each other melts into a complex meditation on the distances and bonds between them. Told with humor and alive with sharply exquisite dialogue, David Greig deftly lifts the curtain between our world and the past. The Book of I is an entirely unique novel that serves as a philosophical commentary on guilt and redemption, but also humanity, love, and the things we choose to believe in.
825: In the aftermath of a vicious attack by raiders from the north, an unlikely trio finds themselves the lone survivors on a remote Scottish isle. Still breathing are young Brother Martin, the only resident of the local monastery to escape martyrdom; Una, a beekeeper and mead maker who has been relieved of her violent husband during the slaughter; and Grimur, an aging Norseman who claws his way out of the hasty grave his fellow raiders left him in, thinking him dead.
As the seasons pass in this wild and lonely setting, their inherent distrust of each other melts into a complex meditation on the distances and bonds between them. Told with humor and alive with sharply exquisite dialogue, David Greig deftly lifts the curtain between our world and the past. The Book of I is an entirely unique novel that serves as a philosophical commentary on guilt and redemption, but also humanity, love, and the things we choose to believe in.
160 pages, Hardcover
First published September 9, 2025
3 people are currently reading
490 people want to read
About the author
David Greig
67 books35 followersDavid Greig is a Scottish dramatist. He was born in Edinburgh in 1969 and brought up in Nigeria. He studied drama at Bristol University and is now a well-known writer and director of plays. He has been commissioned by the Royal Court, the National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company and was Artistic Director of the Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh from 2015 until 2025, when he left to return to writing.
His first play was produced in Glasgow in 1992 and he has written many plays since, produced worldwide. In 1990 he co-founded Suspect Culture Theatre Group with Graham Eatough in Glasgow.
His translations include Camus' Caligula (2003), Candide 2000, and When the Bulbul Stopped Singing, based on a book by Raja Shehadeh. Danmy 306 + Me (4 ever) (1999) is a play written for children.
David Greig's plays include The American Pilot (2005), about America's involvement in the Middle East and Eastern Europe; Pyrenees (2005) about a man who is found in the foothills of the Pyrenees, having lost his memory; and San Diego (2003), a journey through the American dream. His latest works are Gobbo, a modern- day fairytale; Herges Adverntures of Tintin, an adaptation; Yellow Moon (2006); and Damascus (2007)
His first play was produced in Glasgow in 1992 and he has written many plays since, produced worldwide. In 1990 he co-founded Suspect Culture Theatre Group with Graham Eatough in Glasgow.
His translations include Camus' Caligula (2003), Candide 2000, and When the Bulbul Stopped Singing, based on a book by Raja Shehadeh. Danmy 306 + Me (4 ever) (1999) is a play written for children.
David Greig's plays include The American Pilot (2005), about America's involvement in the Middle East and Eastern Europe; Pyrenees (2005) about a man who is found in the foothills of the Pyrenees, having lost his memory; and San Diego (2003), a journey through the American dream. His latest works are Gobbo, a modern- day fairytale; Herges Adverntures of Tintin, an adaptation; Yellow Moon (2006); and Damascus (2007)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 1, 2025
'...if you catch it in one of those sudden moments when it's set in a bright shaft of sunlight, I is perfect: a minature world'.
It's 825 CE and Viking raids from the heathen hordes have a looming regularity across Britain and its surrounding lands, so when a red sail is spotted off the coast of the island of I, the resident monks prepare for martyrdom, 'All things considered, this was a good day for a massacre'. However, the massacre is somewhat bungled, leaving behind a junior monk, an old Viking and the Blacksmith's wife. Despite their very disparate lives, up until the day of the raid, a slow tethering of community weaves between them. Their lives are all very much changed.
The Book of I is primarily literary fiction. Like the monk in the story, who is challenged to find the meaning of a biblical verse, as well as the hidden meaning and subsequent underlying message, The Book of I can also be interpreted in simplistic layers or a complex whole. At first glance it is farcical and wry - Vikings who regard raiding and killing as a job, 'One didn't necessarily have to love the work'. However, soon themes of humanity, connection and self-identity unfurl. Although set hundreds of years ago, the tone of voice is very modern, which I believe serves to further highlight that humans are the same everywhere, and throughout time.
All in all, this short book is a challenging read and certainly unique. Readers who enjoy reflection rather than a storyline with resolution, will enjoy this as a change of pace.
'Revengers were a pain in the arse. So to reduce their possibility, it was best to leave no survivors...No one to whip up feelings of anger or injustice to kin or kings'.
It's 825 CE and Viking raids from the heathen hordes have a looming regularity across Britain and its surrounding lands, so when a red sail is spotted off the coast of the island of I, the resident monks prepare for martyrdom, 'All things considered, this was a good day for a massacre'. However, the massacre is somewhat bungled, leaving behind a junior monk, an old Viking and the Blacksmith's wife. Despite their very disparate lives, up until the day of the raid, a slow tethering of community weaves between them. Their lives are all very much changed.
The Book of I is primarily literary fiction. Like the monk in the story, who is challenged to find the meaning of a biblical verse, as well as the hidden meaning and subsequent underlying message, The Book of I can also be interpreted in simplistic layers or a complex whole. At first glance it is farcical and wry - Vikings who regard raiding and killing as a job, 'One didn't necessarily have to love the work'. However, soon themes of humanity, connection and self-identity unfurl. Although set hundreds of years ago, the tone of voice is very modern, which I believe serves to further highlight that humans are the same everywhere, and throughout time.
All in all, this short book is a challenging read and certainly unique. Readers who enjoy reflection rather than a storyline with resolution, will enjoy this as a change of pace.
'Revengers were a pain in the arse. So to reduce their possibility, it was best to leave no survivors...No one to whip up feelings of anger or injustice to kin or kings'.
September 8, 2025
David Grieg is a playwright so he quite definitely plays with words and our emotions go on a rollercoaster ride. We get the violence, the sadism, the calm, the meditation in the flow of nature, the songs, the bowing down to things greater than us.
With his words he was able to make me laugh and cry as he examines life, heaviness, humour and our place in the life that we get ………….
He also explores the importance of finding a good place in the world. By place I do not just mean a physical place but also a headspace that allows us to be, to smile, to joke and get laughts in return. Life is a very heavy burden and unless we find the joys, the smiles, the laughs, the peace that alleviates, it would become an overwhelmingly heavy.
Columba’s Bones – as published in the UK
The Book of I – as published in the US
An ARC for the US publication given by author/publisher via Edelweiss
With his words he was able to make me laugh and cry as he examines life, heaviness, humour and our place in the life that we get ………….
He also explores the importance of finding a good place in the world. By place I do not just mean a physical place but also a headspace that allows us to be, to smile, to joke and get laughts in return. Life is a very heavy burden and unless we find the joys, the smiles, the laughs, the peace that alleviates, it would become an overwhelmingly heavy.
Columba’s Bones – as published in the UK
The Book of I – as published in the US
An ARC for the US publication given by author/publisher via Edelweiss
August 19, 2025
David Greig is a well-known Scottish dramatist and it shows in his debut novel The Book of I. The isle of I (modern Iona) is a wee stretch of rock, bog, sand and green pasture west off the Isle of Mull, Scotland. The year is 825 AD, year of the supposed martyrdom of Saint Blathmac (a prominent Irish monk) by Viking raiders. This novel offers a snapshot of this gruesome Skaldic poetry-inspired (the original translated poem is included in the book) with humour, gore, romance and faith, all in under 160 pages. It is historically accurate in the sense of events and costumes, yet there is the occasional use of anachronisms, which sometimes work giving a tint of humour, and sometimes they don't. Back to the book, it starts with a brief, whimsical description of the nature found in I, intercalating with scenes from the approaching Viking boat, followed by the raid. Here, the narrative is propulsive and violent, yet Greig hammersledges gnarly humour into his narrative, as in the series Vikings (who doesn't remember Ragnar's quips?). Many character names are thrown, but not all are important. While Helgi's band butchers the monks, Grimur, a pouched middle-aged Viking finds himself unconscious on the ground. After the raid, the Vikings bury the bodies, including Grimur, who is left buried behind. Here, there is a change in pace and narrative, adopting a lighter, mundane tone, exploring themes of religion and belonging until it doesn't. There are some aspects I wish were more fleshed out, which frequently happened, but felt rushed and inorganic. I thoroughly enjoyed this compact, brutal, engrossing little gem that balances historical authenticity with vivid characters and searing narrative.
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of this book from the publisher Europa Editions via NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of this book from the publisher Europa Editions via NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
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July 31, 2025I wanted a change of pace, and that's exactly what I got. I did not, however, find it enjoyable. I did not find any pleasure in this book, nor could I find its point. Aside from not meeting my expectations—I expected more eco-fiction, but that's on me—I could not fathom what the author wanted with this. It's not a character study (it's too short), and it's not a proper historical novel (it's riddled with anachronisms - did they really call the continent Europe in 825?). It's not much of anything, I'm afraid.
September 1, 2025
absolutely loved this. even with all the slaughter and martyrdom it is so cosy.
August 25, 2025
There's an interesting literary subgenre that focuses on challenging/failing Monasteries on ocean islands—and it's a genre I generally enjoy deeply, despite the bleak outlook these novels often have. The concept of faith itself is challenging. The islands these novels are set on are seldom welcoming or suited for human habitation. Then there are the complexities of hierarchical single-sex communities in which dissent is unacceptable—and half the population of the world (women) are viewed as primarily invitations to sin.
The Book of I, set off the coast of 9th Century Scotland, opens with the destruction of an island monastery and the killing of most of its inhabitants by Viking raiders. Greig conveys the horror of this moment without egregious gore (at least by my gore-o-meter) and without descriptions of sexual assault. After the raid, three people remain on the island: a young monk who hid from the raiders in the cesspit of an outhouse; a middle-aged woman who keeps bees and makes mead—and who has no regrets about the killing of her abusive husband; and a Viking raider buried by his comrades who mistakenly assumed him to be dead.
There are wonderful surprises as the trio build their own, very small community that bridges differences of gender, faith, and culture. The island isn't Utopia, but is does allow the characters a chance to appreciate what it means to be human across differences.
The threat that hangs over the three is the knowledge that at some point the raiders will return.
Greig packs a great deal into this short novel written in deceptively simple prose.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via Edelweiss; the opinions are my own.
The Book of I, set off the coast of 9th Century Scotland, opens with the destruction of an island monastery and the killing of most of its inhabitants by Viking raiders. Greig conveys the horror of this moment without egregious gore (at least by my gore-o-meter) and without descriptions of sexual assault. After the raid, three people remain on the island: a young monk who hid from the raiders in the cesspit of an outhouse; a middle-aged woman who keeps bees and makes mead—and who has no regrets about the killing of her abusive husband; and a Viking raider buried by his comrades who mistakenly assumed him to be dead.
There are wonderful surprises as the trio build their own, very small community that bridges differences of gender, faith, and culture. The island isn't Utopia, but is does allow the characters a chance to appreciate what it means to be human across differences.
The threat that hangs over the three is the knowledge that at some point the raiders will return.
Greig packs a great deal into this short novel written in deceptively simple prose.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via Edelweiss; the opinions are my own.
August 3, 2025
CWs: gore
August 23, 2025
4.25 stars - This book is SO different, but at a slim 157 pages, I was hooked early on. Full review to follow.
dnf
August 27, 2025DNF @ 28% (44 pages)
Unfortunately this was not for me. I did enjoy the Descriptions of landscape, which reminded me of clear by carys Davies.
But there were too many things that bothered me that I had no desire to continue. 1) The Viking characters using British slang kept taking me out of the story. 2) Using “Europe” and “Scandinavian” despite those not being terms used in the 9th century-very much not historically accurate (for instance Scandinavian was not used to refer to the 3 major countries and its peoples until well into the 19th century; technically Pliny used the word “Scatinavia” in the 1st century that later became “Scandinavian” but he was referencing an island in the Baltic Sea not the peoples/grouping of Norway, Denmark, and Sweden- that’s the more modern interpretation and usage. And Europe was not a unified area at this time therefore anyone from "Europe" would be described using their country of origin/tribes ie Gauls, celts, Danes, frisians, etc). Finally 3) the crass humor when used to say "he adjusted his cock to make it appear bigger" just why???
Thanks to NetGalley and Europa Editions for the earc!
Unfortunately this was not for me. I did enjoy the Descriptions of landscape, which reminded me of clear by carys Davies.
But there were too many things that bothered me that I had no desire to continue. 1) The Viking characters using British slang kept taking me out of the story. 2) Using “Europe” and “Scandinavian” despite those not being terms used in the 9th century-very much not historically accurate (for instance Scandinavian was not used to refer to the 3 major countries and its peoples until well into the 19th century; technically Pliny used the word “Scatinavia” in the 1st century that later became “Scandinavian” but he was referencing an island in the Baltic Sea not the peoples/grouping of Norway, Denmark, and Sweden- that’s the more modern interpretation and usage. And Europe was not a unified area at this time therefore anyone from "Europe" would be described using their country of origin/tribes ie Gauls, celts, Danes, frisians, etc). Finally 3) the crass humor when used to say "he adjusted his cock to make it appear bigger" just why???
Thanks to NetGalley and Europa Editions for the earc!
June 21, 2025
I really like this story by David Greig because for the most part it was interesting because it involved a Viking Warrior in this story. He was buried in the first part of the book. Then he was made to be in love with the woman who made the mead. One of the others was a young priest that made a decision to become a true man of god. He also made a girl into a nun but failed. She saved the day when she had her brothers come to the Island of I and bring the vikings to be slaves. Plus what Grimur, who was the Viking Warrior, saved the day when he fought the Viking Leader and won at the cost of losing a hand. In the end he stayed with the woman that made the mead. Because they made each other laugh a lot and all the other things people do. It's a really well written story that may have happened.
August 24, 2025
How I found myself staying up until midnight reading a book about medieval Vikings, monks, and mead is still beyond me, but woah. Every time I put this book down, I wanted to pick it back up again. The lyrical prose. The exploration of Christian faith held up against Norse brutality. The HUMOR—consistent, yet unexpected every time. I still cannot get over how Greig depicted I and introduced Grimur, Una, and Brother Martin in 160 pages. I felt like I was there. It was as though I knew them.
It’s not a book for the faint of heart. There are Vikings, which means Viking violence, particularly against the innocent; Greig does not hold back.
It’s not a book for the faint of heart. There are Vikings, which means Viking violence, particularly against the innocent; Greig does not hold back.
July 16, 2025
The Book of I by David Greig
3.5 rounded up to 4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
David Grieg’s historical tale teleports readers to an island simply known as “I,” located in the frigid waters west of Scotland.
I am the bell, or rather the bell is me, and I am a part of the island of “I.” My hard exterior had seen better times, as my shell had several cracks lining my body. The weather’s harshness remained constant as I looked out across the waves. In the distance, I spotted a red flag hanging murderously above the mast of a Scandinavian raider’s ship, looking for an island ripe to pillage. My hanging rope would soon be pulled by Abbot Blathmac, head of the local abbey, signaling the danger afoot. At the helm stood Helgi, the feared leader of this langskip, which was currently unloading its passengers on our beach. My lips swung violently from left to right, my clapper violently slapping against my soundbow. I could feel the vibrations through my shoulders as I resonated my voice in fearful excitement to warn everyone in the area. Difficult as it was, I saw to my right a stout Viking enter the smithy. What no one could know is how this one action would have a ripple effect on everyone involved in this siege.
Grimur, just another Viking, had a propensity for mead. The raid had commenced and left Grimur to his vice. Una, the wife of the “now” deceased blacksmith, began ladling her scrumptious honey mead into Grimur’s drikkehorn to pacify his thirst.
The carnage of the monks’ bodies littered the beach, Helgi's anger boiling. The combatants filed up onto the ship with a sense of loss. They were here for bigger treasure and came away empty-handed. I remained still for fear they might cut me down and take me with them. I watched as the remaining men carried Grimur, who had succumbed to a war injury; Valhalla came calling. Quickly buried by his fellow raiders, Grimur was laid to rest as his warship sailed off into the horizon.
Is that Brother Martin? How had he feigned death? As the winds battered against the beach, I watched as Brother Martin lent a hand to Grimur’s resting place. Rising through the dirt, I watched Grimur’s corpse stand tall once again. Life is quite uneventful for a bell, you see; I hang for centuries at a time, with nothing much to see. Yes, of course, looking out onto the shoreline, the seafoam crashes, and the seals swim, but not often do corpses arise from the dead. And yet….
Brother Martin and Grimur strike up an unusual friendship. Grimur’s sympathy towards the blacksmith’s wife, Una, had shown a compassion not often found in the normal description befitting of a Viking. Una was alive, thank the heavens. The story inspires these three individuals with vastly different life experiences to work as a cohesive unit. Grimur was often found reconstructing the buildings, Una providing food and mead, and Brother Martin devoting his time to paying back God, which entails him finishing a sacred book started by his perished brethren.
David Grieg's story is one of strength and resolve under trying conditions. Allowing the readers a deeper understanding than our premonitions would have us believe. Not everything is as it seems. So dear reader, as my voice rings, cutting through the sounds of local puffins and the crashing of the surf, and the warmth of the sun dissipates, stand by this magical tale, and I encourage you to take time to visit the island known as I.
Many thanks to Europa Editions for the ARC through NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion.
3.5 rounded up to 4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
David Grieg’s historical tale teleports readers to an island simply known as “I,” located in the frigid waters west of Scotland.
I am the bell, or rather the bell is me, and I am a part of the island of “I.” My hard exterior had seen better times, as my shell had several cracks lining my body. The weather’s harshness remained constant as I looked out across the waves. In the distance, I spotted a red flag hanging murderously above the mast of a Scandinavian raider’s ship, looking for an island ripe to pillage. My hanging rope would soon be pulled by Abbot Blathmac, head of the local abbey, signaling the danger afoot. At the helm stood Helgi, the feared leader of this langskip, which was currently unloading its passengers on our beach. My lips swung violently from left to right, my clapper violently slapping against my soundbow. I could feel the vibrations through my shoulders as I resonated my voice in fearful excitement to warn everyone in the area. Difficult as it was, I saw to my right a stout Viking enter the smithy. What no one could know is how this one action would have a ripple effect on everyone involved in this siege.
Grimur, just another Viking, had a propensity for mead. The raid had commenced and left Grimur to his vice. Una, the wife of the “now” deceased blacksmith, began ladling her scrumptious honey mead into Grimur’s drikkehorn to pacify his thirst.
The carnage of the monks’ bodies littered the beach, Helgi's anger boiling. The combatants filed up onto the ship with a sense of loss. They were here for bigger treasure and came away empty-handed. I remained still for fear they might cut me down and take me with them. I watched as the remaining men carried Grimur, who had succumbed to a war injury; Valhalla came calling. Quickly buried by his fellow raiders, Grimur was laid to rest as his warship sailed off into the horizon.
Is that Brother Martin? How had he feigned death? As the winds battered against the beach, I watched as Brother Martin lent a hand to Grimur’s resting place. Rising through the dirt, I watched Grimur’s corpse stand tall once again. Life is quite uneventful for a bell, you see; I hang for centuries at a time, with nothing much to see. Yes, of course, looking out onto the shoreline, the seafoam crashes, and the seals swim, but not often do corpses arise from the dead. And yet….
Brother Martin and Grimur strike up an unusual friendship. Grimur’s sympathy towards the blacksmith’s wife, Una, had shown a compassion not often found in the normal description befitting of a Viking. Una was alive, thank the heavens. The story inspires these three individuals with vastly different life experiences to work as a cohesive unit. Grimur was often found reconstructing the buildings, Una providing food and mead, and Brother Martin devoting his time to paying back God, which entails him finishing a sacred book started by his perished brethren.
David Grieg's story is one of strength and resolve under trying conditions. Allowing the readers a deeper understanding than our premonitions would have us believe. Not everything is as it seems. So dear reader, as my voice rings, cutting through the sounds of local puffins and the crashing of the surf, and the warmth of the sun dissipates, stand by this magical tale, and I encourage you to take time to visit the island known as I.
Many thanks to Europa Editions for the ARC through NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion.
July 20, 2025
My thanks to NetGalley and Europa Editions for an advance copy of this novel about a group of survivors who find comfort in different things, religion, bees, and fixing things, while dealing with their life, their past, and their possibly violent future.
In entertainment I love big books and long movies and music. I feel a song only gets really gets going at the nine minute mark. Long movies seem to have a more visual impact on me, making me reflect more on their meaning. And long books, well nothing needs to be said. Recently though I have discovered novellas, and have to admit that I am really impressed. To be able to introduce characters, explore a world, and set up future actions in less than 200 pages to me is impressive. Add in characters that grow, great dialogue and a story that moves right from the beginning, well one has something special. Like this story. The Book of I by David Greig is a story of love, loss, loneliness, finding one's voice, and following a higher better path.
The time is 825 during the Viking raiding season. These sea rovers new target, one thought easy is a small Scottish Isle with a monastery, a small village, and a lot of seals. The vikings attack killing all the priests and the villagers, losing only one of their own. Or so they think. Brother Martin survives by hiding where no would look. Uma, a mead maker and bee keeper survives by getting the man who kills her husband completely drunk. Grimur the Viking who is thought dead by his colleagues, rises from the dead to find himself forgotten by his comrades but free to live as he wants. Grimur pushes young Martin to finish writing a religious book the monestary had been working on. Uma who has dealt with an abusive husband by not talking for years, finds her voice with Grimur, sharing her good mead and honey from the bees she loved more than anything. Until Grimur. Raiding season though is coming, and soon everything that they have built might soon be taken away.
A really good story. One can tell that David Greig is a playwright. The dialogue is so good, advancing the story without needing extra words, characters growing and becoming interesting, especially Uma and Grimur's relationship. The writing is descriptive, yet sounds like how a conversation with these characters would go. The jokes, the depiction of life on this barren rock. For a book under 200 pages, this is a very rich tell with much to commend it. Again the relationships between the characters seems so real. The mix of religion, and well Viking sense is quite good. Yes the story could be longer, but this is more selfishness on my part. The story really doesn't need to be.
This is David Greig's debut, which I found hard to believe. Greig has a stong writing style, and one that seems to have been honed over time. I assume it must be being a playwright. The writing is very strong, and compelling, with characters I really enjoyed being around. I really can't wait to read more by David Greig.
In entertainment I love big books and long movies and music. I feel a song only gets really gets going at the nine minute mark. Long movies seem to have a more visual impact on me, making me reflect more on their meaning. And long books, well nothing needs to be said. Recently though I have discovered novellas, and have to admit that I am really impressed. To be able to introduce characters, explore a world, and set up future actions in less than 200 pages to me is impressive. Add in characters that grow, great dialogue and a story that moves right from the beginning, well one has something special. Like this story. The Book of I by David Greig is a story of love, loss, loneliness, finding one's voice, and following a higher better path.
The time is 825 during the Viking raiding season. These sea rovers new target, one thought easy is a small Scottish Isle with a monastery, a small village, and a lot of seals. The vikings attack killing all the priests and the villagers, losing only one of their own. Or so they think. Brother Martin survives by hiding where no would look. Uma, a mead maker and bee keeper survives by getting the man who kills her husband completely drunk. Grimur the Viking who is thought dead by his colleagues, rises from the dead to find himself forgotten by his comrades but free to live as he wants. Grimur pushes young Martin to finish writing a religious book the monestary had been working on. Uma who has dealt with an abusive husband by not talking for years, finds her voice with Grimur, sharing her good mead and honey from the bees she loved more than anything. Until Grimur. Raiding season though is coming, and soon everything that they have built might soon be taken away.
A really good story. One can tell that David Greig is a playwright. The dialogue is so good, advancing the story without needing extra words, characters growing and becoming interesting, especially Uma and Grimur's relationship. The writing is descriptive, yet sounds like how a conversation with these characters would go. The jokes, the depiction of life on this barren rock. For a book under 200 pages, this is a very rich tell with much to commend it. Again the relationships between the characters seems so real. The mix of religion, and well Viking sense is quite good. Yes the story could be longer, but this is more selfishness on my part. The story really doesn't need to be.
This is David Greig's debut, which I found hard to believe. Greig has a stong writing style, and one that seems to have been honed over time. I assume it must be being a playwright. The writing is very strong, and compelling, with characters I really enjoyed being around. I really can't wait to read more by David Greig.
August 21, 2025
At least it was a nice day for it: light breeze, lambs playing in the fields. You didn’t want to be splitting heads in the rain. from The Book of I by David Greig
In the early 9th c a group of Viking raiders attack a monastery on a three mile long island off the coast of Scotland. Their purpose in life is to raid, and they particularly like attacking Christian monks because they don’t fight back and are easy kills, and because they usually have something valuable.
On this day, as others slaughter and burn, Grimur came across a cauldron of tasty mead. The mead woman filled his horn until he passed out. When he came to he discovered he had been buried! It was a shallow grave and be broke free.
Only three souls were left alive on the island. Grimur, the mead woman, and a novice monk who hid in the pit of the outhouse. How they learn to live together is the story of this brief novel.
Martin’s Christian teachings are opposite of Grimur’s beliefs, but seeing the beautiful illustrated Gospel that Martin was copying Grimur was dazzled. The mead woman was actually grateful to be freed from her neglectful and abusive husband and happily takes Grimur to bed.
When the longship returns, the life they created is threatened. The survivors must use their wits to save themselves.
Well, I wouldn’t say I know it completely, but it’s something like ‘Everything is a story, a story told by God, and the story is God’…At least that’s how Brother Aed explained it to me. from The Book of I by David Greig
I loved how this book dealt with deep and even dark subjects but had humor, the characters flawed and guilty but rewarded with grace.
Thanks to the publisher for a free book through NetGalley.
In the early 9th c a group of Viking raiders attack a monastery on a three mile long island off the coast of Scotland. Their purpose in life is to raid, and they particularly like attacking Christian monks because they don’t fight back and are easy kills, and because they usually have something valuable.
On this day, as others slaughter and burn, Grimur came across a cauldron of tasty mead. The mead woman filled his horn until he passed out. When he came to he discovered he had been buried! It was a shallow grave and be broke free.
Only three souls were left alive on the island. Grimur, the mead woman, and a novice monk who hid in the pit of the outhouse. How they learn to live together is the story of this brief novel.
Martin’s Christian teachings are opposite of Grimur’s beliefs, but seeing the beautiful illustrated Gospel that Martin was copying Grimur was dazzled. The mead woman was actually grateful to be freed from her neglectful and abusive husband and happily takes Grimur to bed.
When the longship returns, the life they created is threatened. The survivors must use their wits to save themselves.
Well, I wouldn’t say I know it completely, but it’s something like ‘Everything is a story, a story told by God, and the story is God’…At least that’s how Brother Aed explained it to me. from The Book of I by David Greig
I loved how this book dealt with deep and even dark subjects but had humor, the characters flawed and guilty but rewarded with grace.
Thanks to the publisher for a free book through NetGalley.
August 17, 2025
The Book of I by David Greig is an enjoyable short read that will reward readers who takes their time rather than rush through it. Part historical novel and part character studies, it really allows you to take away whatever most appeals to you.
While I mention it will reward a slow read, I failed to do so. If you're like me and have a hard time going slow through a book that is written well and encourages you to keep going, don't worry, I think giving it a second read serves just as well. As I neared the end of the book the first time, I was a little surprised how well I felt I knew the characters even though there wasn't an extensive amount of explanation and backstory. Turns out my second reading showed how well Greig used thoughts, limited dialogue, and excellent descriptive passages to not only advance the story but let us glimpse who these people were. I think his work as a dramatist and director are evident in how he describes even the most subtle of acts. A perfect example is when Una is tending her bees right after the raid and Grimur finds her. Her thoughts, the description of her tasting the honey, and her reaction when found tells us a great deal about who she is and the life she has lived up to this point.
I think anyone who likes historical novels will, if they like this period in history (825CE), will enjoy this book. I also think anyone who likes to see how people react when their lives have been overturned will find a lot to relate to here. How, even when a catastrophic event occurs, life goes on for the survivors and they must learn to cope and maybe, just maybe, flourish.
Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via NetGalley.
While I mention it will reward a slow read, I failed to do so. If you're like me and have a hard time going slow through a book that is written well and encourages you to keep going, don't worry, I think giving it a second read serves just as well. As I neared the end of the book the first time, I was a little surprised how well I felt I knew the characters even though there wasn't an extensive amount of explanation and backstory. Turns out my second reading showed how well Greig used thoughts, limited dialogue, and excellent descriptive passages to not only advance the story but let us glimpse who these people were. I think his work as a dramatist and director are evident in how he describes even the most subtle of acts. A perfect example is when Una is tending her bees right after the raid and Grimur finds her. Her thoughts, the description of her tasting the honey, and her reaction when found tells us a great deal about who she is and the life she has lived up to this point.
I think anyone who likes historical novels will, if they like this period in history (825CE), will enjoy this book. I also think anyone who likes to see how people react when their lives have been overturned will find a lot to relate to here. How, even when a catastrophic event occurs, life goes on for the survivors and they must learn to cope and maybe, just maybe, flourish.
Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via NetGalley.
June 6, 2025
Actual Rating 3.5
It's 825, and Viking raiders decide to raid an isolated monastery. The attack leaves few survivors, including a young monk, a beekeeper, and an aging raider. While the three seemingly have nothing in common, they find themselves forced to choose between working together or giving up and leaving the island. Will the trio be able to rebuild, or will they go their separate ways?
This work was surprising to me. I wasn't expecting it to be so humorous, as that's a somewhat rare approach for historical fiction. I enjoyed it, from the absurd Viking names to the general tone overall, though it did take me a minute to realize it was not your typical historical fiction and get into the swing of the humor. I liked how the author explored the themes of guilt, religion, belief, and how humans can choose to unite despite major differences.
Probably the strongest part of this work was the setting. The descriptions were wonderfully written and incorporated from page one, creating a vivid backdrop for this tale. I loved that the work focused on so few characters, which was beneficial due to how short the book is. The varied backgrounds of the characters was a bonus. There was also a good amount of historical details included that added to the strength of the work.
If you enjoy humorous historical fictions that are unique, then this is worth checking out. My thanks to Edelweiss and Europa Editions for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
It's 825, and Viking raiders decide to raid an isolated monastery. The attack leaves few survivors, including a young monk, a beekeeper, and an aging raider. While the three seemingly have nothing in common, they find themselves forced to choose between working together or giving up and leaving the island. Will the trio be able to rebuild, or will they go their separate ways?
This work was surprising to me. I wasn't expecting it to be so humorous, as that's a somewhat rare approach for historical fiction. I enjoyed it, from the absurd Viking names to the general tone overall, though it did take me a minute to realize it was not your typical historical fiction and get into the swing of the humor. I liked how the author explored the themes of guilt, religion, belief, and how humans can choose to unite despite major differences.
Probably the strongest part of this work was the setting. The descriptions were wonderfully written and incorporated from page one, creating a vivid backdrop for this tale. I loved that the work focused on so few characters, which was beneficial due to how short the book is. The varied backgrounds of the characters was a bonus. There was also a good amount of historical details included that added to the strength of the work.
If you enjoy humorous historical fictions that are unique, then this is worth checking out. My thanks to Edelweiss and Europa Editions for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
July 14, 2025
What a lovely little gem of a book. Funny, touching and exquisitely written, the book of I is a delight to read. As a Scandinavian who has lived in Scotland, it makes me extra happy to see how Grimur, Una and brother Martin manage to make a life together at I despite a grim start (apologies on behalf of my forefathers).
The book starts with Vikings stationed on Shetland invading the island I, basically eradicating the entire population. Somewhere in the midst of the battle, Grimur gets left behind in a hilarious scene while Martin survives in a clever and disgusting way. This sets the entire tone of the book going forward, and a gang of three try to survive the year.
I’m quite fond of sturdy characters who will work and survive. I am Scandinavian, after all, and a northern Scandinavian to boot. All of these characters were people of my heart. And the island, which is its own little character, sounds like a lovely place to live, despite its conditions. But what I love the most about the book of I is that it just tells a story of people, surviving, and making the best of it.
Thanks to Europa Editions and NetGalley for letting me read and provide my honest opinions on this eARC.
The book starts with Vikings stationed on Shetland invading the island I, basically eradicating the entire population. Somewhere in the midst of the battle, Grimur gets left behind in a hilarious scene while Martin survives in a clever and disgusting way. This sets the entire tone of the book going forward, and a gang of three try to survive the year.
I’m quite fond of sturdy characters who will work and survive. I am Scandinavian, after all, and a northern Scandinavian to boot. All of these characters were people of my heart. And the island, which is its own little character, sounds like a lovely place to live, despite its conditions. But what I love the most about the book of I is that it just tells a story of people, surviving, and making the best of it.
Thanks to Europa Editions and NetGalley for letting me read and provide my honest opinions on this eARC.
July 25, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Europa Editions for the free ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Grimur is an older Viking who joins a raid on a small Scottish isle that leaves only a few survivors: Una, the talented beekeeper who makes mead with enough flavor to distract those with even the worst of intentions, and Brother Martin, a tenaciously devoted young man who managed to cheat death in the grossest of ways.
Who knew a story about a Viking raid could be sweet and funny, with tender moments and relatable pieces about aging amongst all the horror and carnage? I wasn't expecting to laugh out loud or murmur "aww" to myself, but it happened. There were a few parts that described graphic child death, which I'll never willingly read about, but despite that it was a compelling and beautifully written book. The only complaint I have is that I wanted more of it and more time with it.
Grimur is an older Viking who joins a raid on a small Scottish isle that leaves only a few survivors: Una, the talented beekeeper who makes mead with enough flavor to distract those with even the worst of intentions, and Brother Martin, a tenaciously devoted young man who managed to cheat death in the grossest of ways.
Who knew a story about a Viking raid could be sweet and funny, with tender moments and relatable pieces about aging amongst all the horror and carnage? I wasn't expecting to laugh out loud or murmur "aww" to myself, but it happened. There were a few parts that described graphic child death, which I'll never willingly read about, but despite that it was a compelling and beautifully written book. The only complaint I have is that I wanted more of it and more time with it.
July 22, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Europa Editions for the ARC!
I can't say I've read many books set in the 9th century. Those were "simpler" and more violent times, especially when it comes to this island in the path of pillaging Vikings. This novella is a great palate cleanser - short, unflinching, and set on a beautiful island.
Unfortunately, due to its length, I didn't feel like we ever really got to know our characters that much. Their past felt like a backdrop that should have informed their characters, but felt like irrelevant bits -- they all claim to have made peace with whatever happened to them in the past, so it did not seem to matter in the present.
Trigger: be prepared for some very graphic violence.
I can't say I've read many books set in the 9th century. Those were "simpler" and more violent times, especially when it comes to this island in the path of pillaging Vikings. This novella is a great palate cleanser - short, unflinching, and set on a beautiful island.
Unfortunately, due to its length, I didn't feel like we ever really got to know our characters that much. Their past felt like a backdrop that should have informed their characters, but felt like irrelevant bits -- they all claim to have made peace with whatever happened to them in the past, so it did not seem to matter in the present.
Trigger: be prepared for some very graphic violence.
August 18, 2025
Vikings raid a small Scottish island, leaving behind only one boy, a beekeeper, and one very-lost Viking warrior. What follows is David Grieg's The Book of I, which is delightfully and surprisingly funny and absurd, touching and sweet.
It's a short read and a wonderful one, perfect for fans of Lauren Groff's Matrix. As the three survivors find their own way and live alongside one another, differences warp, shift, and change them. I don't want to give much away (the blurb on the back already tells too much), but it's truly funny, touching, and lovely despite its start in violence and grief, and I found it absolutely delightful. The Book of I is out September 9.
Content warnings for violence, mentions of domestic abuse and sexual assault.
It's a short read and a wonderful one, perfect for fans of Lauren Groff's Matrix. As the three survivors find their own way and live alongside one another, differences warp, shift, and change them. I don't want to give much away (the blurb on the back already tells too much), but it's truly funny, touching, and lovely despite its start in violence and grief, and I found it absolutely delightful. The Book of I is out September 9.
Content warnings for violence, mentions of domestic abuse and sexual assault.
September 8, 2025
The Book of I, published as Columba's Bones in the UK, opens with a Viking raid of the Scottish isle of I in 825AD. While there is quite a bit of violence in this little novella, the story is mostly about the quiet existence of the survivors of the raid. And although there are explorations of grief, guilt, faith, and loneliness throughout the prevailing tone is quite funny. I was surprised by how funny and endearing I found each of the characters. Overall, I thought this was a fantastic debut novel and I look forward to reading more from David Greig in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and Europa Editions for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Europa Editions for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 7, 2025
This is a quick and entertaining read, with some lovely language choices and clear sense of setting. It’s nicely told from a variety of perspectives and will keep you turning the pages, whilst you follow the stories of Viking warrior Grimur, mead maker Una, and the faithful monk Brother Martin. There is a fair amount of humour and thought-provoking religious/spiritual ideas, though the ending is a little disappointing. Overall, it’s worth a read and will take you nicely into 9th century Scotland/Viking raids.
August 26, 2025
First, thank you to NetGalley, Europa Editions, and David Greig for the ARC!
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This is a fast-paced, brutal, strange, and surprisingly humorous little read. It opens with a Norse raid on the Scottish Isle of I in the 9th century and follows an aging Norseman, a young monk, and a widowed mead wife in its aftermath.
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At first I wasn’t sure where the story was headed, but that uncertainty was part of what made the journey so enjoyable. The mix of bleakness and dark humor felt very Lapvona-esque—so if that’s your cup of tea, this one is definitely worth reading!
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This is a fast-paced, brutal, strange, and surprisingly humorous little read. It opens with a Norse raid on the Scottish Isle of I in the 9th century and follows an aging Norseman, a young monk, and a widowed mead wife in its aftermath.
…
At first I wasn’t sure where the story was headed, but that uncertainty was part of what made the journey so enjoyable. The mix of bleakness and dark humor felt very Lapvona-esque—so if that’s your cup of tea, this one is definitely worth reading!
August 25, 2025
Physical. Thank you NetGalley and Europa Editions for this ARC in return for my honest review!
This book was so weird and gruesome! If you’re looking for a plot there’s not much here but I sure had a good time reading. Funny and fast paced, I had a few hearty chuckles here! I think David Grieg is a talented author and can definitely notice his play writing experience. This is like a blend of Lapvona and The Starving Saints, both of which I enjoyed. I love a bad bitch named Una.
This book was so weird and gruesome! If you’re looking for a plot there’s not much here but I sure had a good time reading. Funny and fast paced, I had a few hearty chuckles here! I think David Grieg is a talented author and can definitely notice his play writing experience. This is like a blend of Lapvona and The Starving Saints, both of which I enjoyed. I love a bad bitch named Una.
August 27, 2025
This book is charming. A Viking, a monk, and a beekeeper all come together in the aftermath of a violent raid on the Isle of I. The story is pretty swift and full of heart and humor while still being a bit bloody.
(I do suggest fixing some of the formatting issues in the e-reader version— there were odd spacing and other problems throughout out the book, which made it difficult to read in some sections.)
(I do suggest fixing some of the formatting issues in the e-reader version— there were odd spacing and other problems throughout out the book, which made it difficult to read in some sections.)
May 14, 2025
Literally the embodiment of the Emma Donoghue quote on the cover: "A dazzlingly fresh take on early medieval life, as funny as it’s moving." This book is so entertaining and funny, and I'm such a sucker for historical fiction that reminds us people were just as funny and ridiculous and crazy and loving in the past as they are in our present.
July 19, 2025
interesting work. i did like the characterization, and i find that since the book was so short it made sense to have such a short list of people. the setting was also fun and interesting. 4 stars. tysm for the arc.
August 6, 2025
This was very, very good. Brutal violence, religious extremism, paganism, and humor exist within this thin novella. Lovers of history will find the early 800's sufficiently horrifying. This book is shockingly funny and the humor contrasts the absolute sh!t pit of circumstance that life can be.
September 7, 2025
Monks! Mead! Vikings! Relics! One of those books that I feel like was written for my singular enjoyment. Both dark and funny, The Book of I is moving reflection on finding our place in the world through the unlikeliest of characters.
July 10, 2025
Looooooved it!
An uplifting, comedic version of Lapvona (sorta)
Sometimes it’s nice for things to just end nicely.
Such an easy, funny read.
An uplifting, comedic version of Lapvona (sorta)
Sometimes it’s nice for things to just end nicely.
Such an easy, funny read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews