Book of condolences for JAAN KROSS (19.02.1920 - 27.12.2007)
27.12.2007
Estonia's well-known and most translated writer Jaan Kross has passed away. His twelve full-length novels, short stories and novelle cover a cross-section of Estonian history in European context.
Born on February 19 1920, in Tallinn, Kross studied law at the Tartu University. He published his first novel, "Between Three Plagues," in 1970. In his novels Kross described figures from Estonian history, first in short stories and novelle, later in novels where he drew upon his own experiences.
President of Estonia, Toomas Hendrik Ilves praised Kross as a preserver of the Estonian language and culture. "He was one of those who kept fresh the spirits of the people and made us ready to take the opportunity of restoring Estonia's independence," Ilves said.
Jaan Kross was awarded several Estonian and international prizes, including the Amnesty International Golden Flame Prize in 1990. For many years, Kross was Estonia's strongest candidate for the Nobel Literature Prize.
Books available in English
The Czar's Madman (Keisri hull) Treading Air (Paigallend)
Professor Martens' Departure (Professor Martensi ärasõit)
