RAT CATCHER was the term given to the Norwegian resistance fighters who performed the dirtiest jobs during the Second World War.
They liquidated informers, torturers and other Norwegians who worked for the Germans. THE RAT CATCHER was written by my stepfather Max Manus (1914-1996), in 1948. At that time his two classic war books ‘Det vil helst gå godt’ and ‘Det blir alvor’ were already successful books.
The manuscript of this novel laid for many years in the bottom drawer of a rose-painted cupboard in our living room at home on Landøya in Asker just outside Oslo, Norway. In the late seventies the script was bound in a hard cover with a leather spine and was given to Max as a birthday present. To this day no one in the family knows what happened to the book. A few years before my mother died she gave me a copy. Max was half Danish, and his language was marked by this. Moreover, he rose supremely above normalised spelling. No one can explain why Max did not publish the novel while he was alive.
In this English version I have translated it with great care in order to preserve all the original detail and story. In 2008 the film ‘Max Manus’ (English: ‘Man of War’), was released. It became a smash hit just like his books, and a blockbuster in Norwegian cinemas.
The Norwegian version of The Rat Catcher (Rottejegeren), was published in Norway in 2021 by Kagge Forlag AS and became a best-seller.
For more information about the book you can read the full version of ‘The Interview with George’ here.
Click on any of the outlets below to buy The Rat Catcher in print or eBook
Paperback, 230 Pages.
ISBN: 8743056466
P. Smith –
I enjoyed this book immensely. My father and uncles were in the Second World War, however, I knew nothing of Norways involvement in the war. This book was a fascinating insight into what happened. Max was a hero and a very brave man. Good read and very informative.
Ashleigh –
Wow, great read. Offers a deep insight into World War II Norwegian resistance fighter, Max Manus that illuminates his post-war inner struggles and personal vulnerabilities. The book encompasses the heart-felt closure for a life that was fraught with danger, bravery, overcoming formidable circumstances, and managing to maintain a humble and human outlook. Very different times to now. I highly recommend.
Ole –
Splendid book. Good reading. Deep insight into the World War 2. I can recommend this book for any one interested in war history.