Sweden is a Scandinavian country known for cold weather, minimalistic design and meatballs. However, there is plenty more to enjoy about Sweden, so enjoy this little Smörgåsbord.

The Clothing

H&M

H&M is a Swedish clothing company that specializes in getting runway fashion to the consumer fast and at a fraction of the price. H&M offers style for all members of the family, from newborns to adults, both male and female. There are around 200 H&M stores in the United States, along with an online store for those too far away to visit.

The Books

(turned Swedish films turned American films)

“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo/ Män som hatar kvinnor”

“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” follows disgraced reporter Mikael Blomkvist and hacker Lisbeth Salander as they investigate a murder from 36 years prior. The characters are unique, the mystery is intriguing and the book is hard to put down.

Despite being very graphic, it has become extremely popular. “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” is the first book in Stieg Larsson’s international best-selling “Millennium Trilogy.”

The Swedish film trilogy, based on the books, has been critically acclaimed while Rooney Mara, the star of David Fincher’s American adaption, has already been nominated for the Golden Globe award for “Best Actress.”

“Let me In/ Låt den rätte komma in”

“Let the Right One In” is one of the most original vampire stories since the vampire craze began.

Oskar, a morbid 12-year-old boy plagued by school yard bullying, meets Eli, a girl, who seems to be his age and has just moved into his apartment complex.

However, Eli is not at all as she appears. This book tells of the darkest parts of humanity with the plot focusing around children; the effect is harsh but riveting.

The American version of the film changes the characters names and moves the story from the frigid cold of Sweden to the desert heat of New Mexico. Both movies have received positive reviews, due to talented directors and casts of young actors.

The Music

Basshunter

Basshunter specializes in Eurotrance music. Great for dancing, songs like “DotA” and “Now You’re Gone” make great additions to any party play list. With songs in both Swedish and English, he can even appeal to people who like to understand lyrics when they are listening to music. He also has plenty of songs to choose from, with 3 studio albums already released and a fourth slated for some time this year.

The Interior Design

IKEA

IKEA is known for their straight-lined, modern furniture and Swedish product names that Americans generally cannot pronounce. IKEA offers all the furniture one needs for chic, modern room at a low price. However, if you buy from IKEA, make sure you have a tool kit; most items require assembly.

Contact Lyndsey Schley at [email protected].