Gerd Mikalsen from Manndalen debuted this year as an author with the novel Farsmålet. In the book, Mikalsen tells us how it was like growing up in a village characterized by laestadian beliefs, while the Sami language and culture were denied and put to shame and guilt. We follow Alma as a child, youth and adult woman. The title reflects Alma's father's preoccupation with the Norwegian language and how he strived to appear Norwegian at all costs. The tension between Alma and the father is a constant theme in the novel.

At Riddu Riđđu we meet Gerd Mikalsen in conversation with Aud Tåga from Troms county library.