One of Us

One of Us examines the events surrounding Norway's July 22, 2011 terror attacks through multiple perspectives. Norwegian journalist Åsne Seierstad reconstructs the lives of several young Norwegians and the perpetrator through extensive research, interviews, and official documents. The book traces parallel narratives leading up to the attacks at Oslo's government quarter and a Labour Party youth summer camp. Seierstad presents the stories of teenagers Bano Rashid, Simon Sæbø, and Viljar Hanssen alongside an account of Anders Breivik's path toward extremism. The narrative incorporates official records, police reports, psychiatric evaluations, and firsthand accounts from survivors, families, and witnesses. The author attended the entire trial and conducted extensive interviews to build a comprehensive picture of events and their impact on Norwegian society. The work raises questions about identity, belonging, and the nature of community in modern Norway. Through its multiple storylines, it explores how different individuals navigate their relationship with society and search for their place within it.

Readers describe the book as meticulously researched and detailed, with many noting its journalistic approach to documenting the 2011 Norway attacks. Multiple reviews highlight Seierstad's balanced portrayal of both the perpetrator and victims. Readers appreciated: - The focus on victims' stories and backgrounds - Clear timeline and reporting style - Cultural context about Norway - Amount of research and detail Common criticisms: - Too much background detail about minor characters - Pacing issues in early chapters - Some found the writing dry - Questions about accuracy of perpetrator's thoughts/feelings Ratings: Goodreads: 4.4/5 (17,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (500+ ratings) LibraryThing: 4.3/5 (300+ ratings) One reader noted: "The humanity shown to the victims makes this more than just true crime." Another wrote: "At times the detail becomes overwhelming, but it serves a purpose in understanding the full scope."

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🔹 Seierstad wrote this book while living under police protection due to threats she received during her investigation and research process. 🔹 The book sparked significant controversy in Norway, leading to intense public debates about how society should remember and discuss national tragedies. 🔹 The English translation by Sarah Death won the 2015 English PEN Award for outstanding writing in translation. 🔹 Prior to writing this book, Seierstad gained international recognition for "The Bookseller of Kabul," which sold over two million copies worldwide. 🔹 The author spent three years conducting over 100 interviews with survivors, families, and officials to create this comprehensive account of the 2011 Norway attacks.