'Self-doubt is not a good idea'

“As a writer, you have to believe you’re one of the best writers in the world.  To sit down every day at the typewriter filled with self-doubt is not a good idea.” – Jo Nesbo

Norwegian writer and singer Nesbo has parlayed that self-confidence into a highly successful career.   His creative fiction about Norwegian and international crime solver Harry Hole, a gritty detective known for his ability to not only solve perplexing crimes but also “save the girl,” has earned him legions of reading fans.   And on screen, his suspenseful yarns have earned myriad screenwriting awards.  Nesbo, born on March 29, 1960, has nearly 30 million copies of his books in print worldwide, translated into some 40 languages.   

Many of his readers and viewers also tune in to hear him sing as lead vocalist and songwriter for the rock band DJ Derre.  The personable Nesbo, who grew up in a small town outside of Oslo has not forgotten his roots, saying many of his readers and listeners think of him as “a family member made good.”   

                                    “I’ve always said that you can’t visit readers where you think they are, but instead you need to invite them home to where you are,” he said.  “They need to join you in your world.  That’s the art of storytelling.”

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