When I finished this novella, I found myself flipping back and starting again. Partly that is because of the way that Sjon unravels the story, so you to go back and see how it feels knowing the end. But also, it is a hard mood and world to just wrench yourself out of, so hypnotic is the imagery, even in translation (kudos to Cribb here).
I do find it hilarious that this was recommended as Icelandic literature that wasn't bleak or dark, because well, it isn't exactly lighthearted or warm. But it is a tad spellbinding, and full of quiet ode to people who care for each other (balanced by a note of vengeance-induced-madness and a deserved avalanche for those who don't).