Biography
Who is Jo Nesbø?
Early life and real name
Jon Nesbø was born in Oslo, Norway, on March 29, 1960, and grew up in Molde. His mother worked as a librarian, while his father served for Germany during World War II and later struggled with finances while working odd jobs. Growing up, Jo Nesbø showed an interest in sports and played as a striker for the football team Molde FK until a knee injury ended his playing career.
Music career
Music played a major role in Jo's early adult life, and he began playing the guitar from the age of twenty. After college, he formed a band alongside his older brother, Knut Nesbø. He later became the lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist, and primary songwriter for the country-pop and rock band Di Derre, which formed in 1992.
Writing career and Harry Hole series
Jo launched his literary career when his first novel, The Bat, was published in 1997. The book won the Riverton Prize for best Norwegian crime novel and the Glass Key prize for best Nordic crime novel. Following this success, he focused primarily on writing and developed the internationally acclaimed crime series centered around inspector Harry Hole.
Other book series and projects
In addition to adult crime fiction, Jo expanded into children's literature with the publication of Doctor Proctor's Fart Powder in 2007. The series follows a quirky professor, his neighbor Lisa, and a boy named Nilly through various eccentric adventures and inventions. Five books were published in this series, and live-action film adaptations followed in Norway.
Personal life and hobbies
Jo lives in Oslo close to his ex-wife and their daughter. Outside of his writing and musical endeavors, he is a dedicated rock climber who began taking the sport seriously after turning fifty years old. In 2023, he accomplished a long-standing personal goal by successfully climbing a French grade 8a sport route.
Birthday and age
Jo Nesbø was born on March 29, 1960, which makes Jo 66 years old today. That birthday falls under the Aries sign. Jo shares the date with 59 other famous people.
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