Kjell Östberg, I takt med tiden. Olof Palme 1927-1969.(Stockholm, Leopard, 2008, pp. 427)

Abstract

in Stockholm (a second volume is currently forthcoming). The title, Behind the times, is very well-conceived with respect to the author"s methodology and to what was, according to Östberg, Palme"s distinctive character. The book is remarkable as it is not only a detailed biography, showing impressive archival research, but also an exhaustive reconstruction of Swedish political and intellectual life in the 20th century. As to Palme"s peculiarity, Östberg stresses the Prime Minister"s talent in getting the Zeitgeist straight away, with the isolated but crucial exception of 1968.