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Iceland, a nation renowned for its literary culture, prints more books per capita than any other country. Over half of Icelanders read more than eight books annually. This affinity for reading is reflected in one of the country's cherished Christmas traditions, Jólabókaflóð, or the "Christmas flood of books." The tradition starts with the release of a book catalogue in mid-November and culminates on Christmas Eve when people exchange and read new books.
The origins of Jólabókaflóð date back to World War II when paper was one of the few non-rationed commodities. Books became affordable gifts during this period. Even after the war ended and other luxuries returned, this tradition continued and remains integral to Icelandic Christmas celebrations.
The annual event begins with the distribution of Bókatíðindi, a free catalogue from Iceland’s Publisher’s Association delivered to every home in Iceland. Families select books for their loved ones and spend Christmas Eve exchanging and reading them.
