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The Last Execution
In twelve hours, a fifteen-year-old boy will be be executed on Gallows Hill.
The master carpenter comes to measure Niels for his coffin.
The master baker bakes bread for the spectators.
The messenger posts the notice of execution in the town square.
The poet prepares his best pen to record the events of the execution as they unfold.
A fly, Niels’s only companion in the cell, buzzes, buzzes.
A dog hovers by his young master’s window.
A young girl hovers too, pitying the boy.
The executioner sharpens, sharpens, sharpens his blade.
Each townsperson holds a stake in the execution. But as the hours tick by, each must answer the question: Does this young boy have the right to live? Or does he deserve to die?
The master carpenter comes to measure Niels for his coffin.
The master baker bakes bread for the spectators.
The messenger posts the notice of execution in the town square.
The poet prepares his best pen to record the events of the execution as they unfold.
A fly, Niels’s only companion in the cell, buzzes, buzzes.
A dog hovers by his young master’s window.
A young girl hovers too, pitying the boy.
The executioner sharpens, sharpens, sharpens his blade.
Each townsperson holds a stake in the execution. But as the hours tick by, each must answer the question: Does this young boy have the right to live? Or does he deserve to die?
132 pages, Hardcover
First published November 26, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
April 11, 2016
“The world is the meeting place of the strange.”
This is a really positive review with a small caveat - the price for this book needs to come down or they need to start getting it in libraries, because $12+ to read a novella, even in ebook format, is crazy (Apr 8, 2016).
Anyway, now I've finished bitching, I'm going to talk about how great this story is. It's a short, powerful, emotive read about the twelve hours before a Danish boy is due to be executed. He sits in his jail cell with a fly as his only companion, reminiscing about his life with his father (poor and often homeless), but The Last Execution is not just a book about the boy in question.
As we soon find out, there are many people involved in Niel's execution - from the carpenter who will make his coffin, to the baker who will serve bread to those coming to watch, to the poet who will record the events. It's a chilling tale about the whole town, and the vast array of emotions experienced - everything from sadness and pity to excitement and enthusiasm.
The boy's guilt of the crime is never really in question, but it is given context, which makes it hard not to side with Niels regardless. The book acts as a criticism of society and its failures to the lower, poorer classes, and also shows the way people are quick to rally around and enjoy another's misfortune. As Kirkus said: "the carefully paced reveals of the specific circumstances leading up to the fatal incident ultimately suggest Niels’ greatest crime might simply have been poverty."
By opening each chapter in the dark simplicity of Niel's cell and reminding the reader how long is remaining until the execution, the atmosphere is one of impending doom and the suspense is perfect. I really enjoyed the format of the storytelling, the gradual reveals, and the wide scope of such a small novel, incorporating the perspectives of many characters.
A hard-hitting and memorable little book.
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February 23, 2018
Good for a quick read .
June 5, 2016
Fuck....I have no words. I'm emotionally drained.
They say don't judge a book by its cover but the same goes for don't judge a book by its length. This little thing packs a mean punch. And I was hopelessly unguarded against its brutal attack on my emotions. I think what really hit home for me was the last page.
With nothing but the simple synopsis and Emily's wonderful review, I was sold. But the message that failed to hit home before I picked this up was that this is a....bleak and depressing novel. Don't get me wrong, it's utter brilliance distilled and poured into 140 pages or so but the honesty in which it's written will reduce anyone to tears. If you're anything like me - always hoping for a better outcome in any situation and always trying to see the good in other people, walk away now. This book is not for you.
A great man once said: "When a man sits with a pretty girl for an hour, it seems like a minute. But let him sit on a hot stove for a minute and it's longer than any hour. That's relativity." - Einstein
Whether 12 hours pass or 2 minutes, you don't truly get a sense. You're suspended in this whirlwind of flashes into the past and then anchored back to the present and you relive each passing moment with Niel. The author does a remarkable job revealing snippets of the past at just the right time that it's not until you reach the near end that you truly appreciate what has gone on.
By brutally honest, what I mean is that Niel's guilt is not even questioned once - not by a single character. It just is. The story is told in such a way with multiple perspectives that on the face of it, it appears to be a simple factual account of what's gone on and as a reader, you inevitably reach a point where you start to question what his real crime is - being in the wrong place at the wrong time? Being unfortunate and poor? Wanting to work hard and prove to society how wrong it was in its preconceptions regarding his class? Standing up for someone close to him?
On a lighter note, I have to mention Niel's father and how wonderfully he is depicted. There's a man that never gives up on his principles despite how rough times are.
Highly recommended.
They say don't judge a book by its cover but the same goes for don't judge a book by its length. This little thing packs a mean punch. And I was hopelessly unguarded against its brutal attack on my emotions. I think what really hit home for me was the last page.
With nothing but the simple synopsis and Emily's wonderful review, I was sold. But the message that failed to hit home before I picked this up was that this is a....bleak and depressing novel. Don't get me wrong, it's utter brilliance distilled and poured into 140 pages or so but the honesty in which it's written will reduce anyone to tears. If you're anything like me - always hoping for a better outcome in any situation and always trying to see the good in other people, walk away now. This book is not for you.
A great man once said: "When a man sits with a pretty girl for an hour, it seems like a minute. But let him sit on a hot stove for a minute and it's longer than any hour. That's relativity." - Einstein
Whether 12 hours pass or 2 minutes, you don't truly get a sense. You're suspended in this whirlwind of flashes into the past and then anchored back to the present and you relive each passing moment with Niel. The author does a remarkable job revealing snippets of the past at just the right time that it's not until you reach the near end that you truly appreciate what has gone on.
By brutally honest, what I mean is that Niel's guilt is not even questioned once - not by a single character. It just is. The story is told in such a way with multiple perspectives that on the face of it, it appears to be a simple factual account of what's gone on and as a reader, you inevitably reach a point where you start to question what his real crime is - being in the wrong place at the wrong time? Being unfortunate and poor? Wanting to work hard and prove to society how wrong it was in its preconceptions regarding his class? Standing up for someone close to him?
On a lighter note, I have to mention Niel's father and how wonderfully he is depicted. There's a man that never gives up on his principles despite how rough times are.
Highly recommended.
April 21, 2016
The moment you let go of the stone, it's too late to change your mind. But if you don't say or do something, it is also too late.
I purchased this book because I've found that for me, it's always those under two hundred page books that pack a punch that longer books usually aren't able to reach. This book didn't disappoint at all.
It caused me to be transported to Denmark in the 1800s. I was in the cell with Niels. It's so atmospheric. Because the setting is for the most part in a cell with a fly and a dog outside, everything was crystal clear as to what was going on. However, the story does switch out of the prison cell occasionally. There are flashbacks about Niel and his father and their struggle to find food and a place to stay the night. It was bittersweet because I loved their connection, but his father's spiral from strong to crippled is heart-wrenching.
The narration is very successful, too. Although it is told from Niel's point of view a lot of the time, there are also other townspeople. There is the baker, the carpenter, the messenger, the mayor, the priest, and the executioner. They all have very differing views on the execution of this fifteen-year-old book. Some are excited, hoping for an increase in money from this, some have conflicting emotions, and some are pretty torn up about it. It was so interesting to see how everyone felt about this, and it was brilliant for Wung-Sung to decide to narrate like this.
There were so many themes that I never read about. There was the struggles of the lower class, the corruption of government, the greediness of business owners. I loved reading about all of these things, as saddening and aggravating they all are. It was like a breath of fresh air in this cliche world of YA.
I loved basically everything about this book. It was hard to believe that this is based on a true story. The hill that the boy was executed on now has a bench on it that you can sit and look down on the town. Horrific. Heartbreaking. Definitely pick this up if you're looking for a quick read that will make you think.
June 14, 2023
this was a super quick read, but enjoyable
April 17, 2017
I saw people reviewing this one and was intrigued by the summary. An execution? Sign me up.
Unfortunately, the effort I out into getting my local library to buy this wasn't actually really worth it.
This book jumps around. A lot. There's time jumps, perspective jumps, jumps to poetry and different fonts. It's confusing and honestly, half the time I didn't actually know what was going on. It's 132 pages long. I should't be confused by a book with only 132 pages. The dialogue was particularly bad. The author never wrote who was speaking and you couldn't just figure it out based on what they were saying because noooo, it has to be ~pretty and poetic~ and totally useless. Was it the author? Was it the translator? Who knows, it was awful.
I read this in a total of forty minutes or so and I will completely forget it in a total of fourteen minutes or so.
Unfortunately, the effort I out into getting my local library to buy this wasn't actually really worth it.
This book jumps around. A lot. There's time jumps, perspective jumps, jumps to poetry and different fonts. It's confusing and honestly, half the time I didn't actually know what was going on. It's 132 pages long. I should't be confused by a book with only 132 pages. The dialogue was particularly bad. The author never wrote who was speaking and you couldn't just figure it out based on what they were saying because noooo, it has to be ~pretty and poetic~ and totally useless. Was it the author? Was it the translator? Who knows, it was awful.
I read this in a total of forty minutes or so and I will completely forget it in a total of fourteen minutes or so.
November 7, 2016
It's nearing the end of o levels so I had the chance to read this book and I've got to say it's such a heartwarming book. It's about a 15 year old boy who's to be executed which sounds so heartbreaking. But, after reading the story, I guess, it didn't feel so sad. It's because we get a glimpse of his thoughts and feelings. Also, we get the perspectives of other people in the town about the execution. However, it wasn't as emotionally impactful as I hoped it would be so the 4 stars.
September 9, 2018
Dark and deliciously atmospheric, this is a moving work. Don't let its size confuse you; this is for more mature readers.
November 18, 2019
For such a small book I'm in absolute awe of how much it was able to do. It's almost hard to put into words, this book is more of an emotional experience than a story. It's really quite depressing, the way a father and son are torn out of society because of poverty. Niels, the main character is such a complex character and yet a simple one too. It's mostly what isn't written on the pages that makes him such a great character. The way the book is written you can feel his emotion and what he wants to say, when he doesn't say anything at all.
There are times where he sits in silence talking to a fly, yet you can understand his thought process. As the book goes on the reader starts to question what his crime is at all. It says it's arson and murder. But really you inevitably reach a point where you start to question if it was as simple as that. Niel's father is wonderfully depicted as well. Just a man that never gives up on his principles despite how rough times are, you get the sense that he tries to provide and create a life for his boy, yet he simply cannot do to his health and circumstances.
I highly recommended this novel.
There are times where he sits in silence talking to a fly, yet you can understand his thought process. As the book goes on the reader starts to question what his crime is at all. It says it's arson and murder. But really you inevitably reach a point where you start to question if it was as simple as that. Niel's father is wonderfully depicted as well. Just a man that never gives up on his principles despite how rough times are, you get the sense that he tries to provide and create a life for his boy, yet he simply cannot do to his health and circumstances.
I highly recommended this novel.
November 19, 2019
This was a very quick read, but I did not get much out of it. I did not know going into this book that it was based on a true execution in Denmark, but I still felt no emotional connection to any of the characters. I suppose there was not enough pages to get to fully understand the characters.
I do think that this book did have some wonderful passages and outlooks on life so that is why it is receiving a three-star.
I do think that this book did have some wonderful passages and outlooks on life so that is why it is receiving a three-star.
September 8, 2021
Interessant bog til udskolingsniveau. En dreng skal henrettes, vi ser bagud på hans liv, hans fattigdom, der har ført ham til skafottet. Digt og refleksion. En faktisk henrettelse i Svendborg i 1853, han blev halshugget. HCA som en i publikum(?)
August 18, 2019
Dang. It’s sad to think how public executions use to be. Like a free for all showing. This was beautifully written and gave voice to even a badly broken and beaten fist. I love the language and the emotion it conveyed. Not a bad little read!
July 7, 2025
Hurtigt læst.
February 11, 2025
Kan du huske den Celina?👀
September 25, 2020
Despite being such a slim story of roughly 132 pages, this book definitely packs a meaningful punch that really gets to the thoughts and emotions of the reader. Author Jasper Wung-Sung chronicles the last twelve hours before the execution of a fifteen-year-old, Danish boy, Niel. Wung-Sung truly plays with the feelings of the reader, describing the setting of Niel in the jail cell and his one and only companion, a buzzing fly. And in the most concise manner possible, Wung-Sung flashes back and forth between Niel's heartwarming memories of his father and his relationship and the present situation of his execution. The most intriguing part of this story, however, is how the entire town takes part in the making of his death from the carpenter to the baker to the dog outside of the jail cell; it's a collaborative effort that makes you wonder about what is happening. And after double thinking, you realize that this short, yet strong book is a reflection of society's treatment of the poor, especially in the nineteenth century. Thus, if you're a person who enjoys short books, this book is strongly recommended! It's a powerful message with a clear story.
November 2, 2018
Very interesting concept and idea in this book, but unfortunately, maybe it was lost in the translation, I didn't felt enough emotion and didn't find it philosophical enough either. It's still a good book, because in put in perspective some life choice people makes and some life «choice» that were force on them. It's also, obviously, a book about justice and present the concept of people doing nothing or passively agreed with the system keep this system working (something that is terribly actual). And it's well written. it really has everything it need, but just felt a bit short in the execution, it's good, but it could have been perfect!
March 30, 2023
If I had to sum it up, I would say that this book is a flatter, more one-note version of Cormac McCarthy's The Road saved in part by its much shorter length and occasional poetic appeal.
I'm giving this book 2.5 books since I was underwhelmed by the writing, plot, and characterization. Some points I feel are worth mentioning:
- My biggest complaint: this book seems to emphasize the question or whether or not it was right to sentence a 15 year old boy to death. Why, then, do NONE of the many perspectives question it or find it wrong? Why are 100% in favor of the execution (for various reasons of their own)? Doesn't it kind of defeat the purpose of having multiple perspectives revolving around the same event if everyone thinks the exact same way and is on the same side?
Additionally, this was "the last execution" in Svendborg, Denmark. I find it a huge missed opportunity and omission that nobody in this book thinks it's wrong or tries to stop it - there could have been a powerful moment about this being the last one. Instead, all we get is a chorus of similar voices looking forward to the execution. Nothing hints at this being the last execution because it's treated like any other ordinary execution of a criminal rather than being a moment in history at the brink of reform. (There's exactly one character who presumably doesn't want the boy to die, but it's pretty obviously for personal reasons and not because they think executions are wrong).
- This book was very one-note in how depressing it was. I felt that it would have been more effective if there was the occasional moment of levity or something other than starvation and unfortunate circumstances. Instead, it was just either the chorus of townspeople looking forward to the execution in the present timeline, or the boy's situation getting worse and worse in the past timeline. I consider The Road pretty depressing too, but I was interested by it and liked the interactions between the boy and his father. Here, the boy and his father just suffer alongside one another hopelessly, too weak for conversations.
The boy has a couple of happier moments with a girl he meets, but these scenes are brief, offer no hope, and don't affect the present timeline except to make it even more depressing because
- Another complaint about the perspectives: Based on the blurb on the back of the book, I thought the townspeople were going to be a lot more connected and relevant to either one another or to the boy. Some honestly felt pointless, and there wasn't any cool a-ha moments that you might expect from a book with different perspectives covering the same timeframe. For example, the first perspective we read after the boy's is the baker's. He is not the greatest guy, complains about rising costs, and just plans what to bake for the execution later that day since he tends to sell a lot on those occasions. His raisin buns are mentioned towards the end since his assistant is selling them to the crowd, but that's all we get from him. Generally, I felt there was a weird choice of perspectives, and that a lot more interesting and important characters could have gotten them instead.
- It's very slow-paced for being such a short book that occurs over 12 hours.
- It's based on a true story, although apparently not a very well-known one because I was unable to find out more about it. I think this is because the author mentions it was more of a local event close to where his sons went to school. Perhaps there's more information about it in Danish?
This is a short read, and I know some people find it very beautifully put-together so I wouldn't discourage anyone from picking this up. I like supporting lesser-known (at least in the U.S.) authors as well as books in translation, and I do think there are great poignant moments here and there. My rating is based on personal enjoyment, but if you have the right expectations going in (that it is just about the unfortunate circumstances that befall as boy, and pretty much nothing else), I could see value in picking this up.
*2023 Popsugar Reading Challenge*
Advanced Prompt #3: A book that takes place entirely in one day
*2023 Around the Year Reading Challenge*
Prompt #3: A book that fits a suggestion that didn’t make the 2023 list. From Poll 4, multi-week prompt:
4 books connected to each other through publication date (week 1), cover color (week 2), country setting (week 3), and title starting letter (week 4)
Books 0 and 1 (same publication year):
Mistress of Rome and The Last Execution (2010)
Books 1 and 2 (same cover color):
The Last Execution and A Day of Fire: A Novel of Pompeii
Books 2 and 3 (country setting):
A Day of Fire: A Novel of Pompeii and Daisy Miller (Italy)
Book 3 and 4 (same title starting letter):
Daisy Miller and Death on the Nile
I'm giving this book 2.5 books since I was underwhelmed by the writing, plot, and characterization. Some points I feel are worth mentioning:
- My biggest complaint: this book seems to emphasize the question or whether or not it was right to sentence a 15 year old boy to death. Why, then, do NONE of the many perspectives question it or find it wrong? Why are 100% in favor of the execution (for various reasons of their own)? Doesn't it kind of defeat the purpose of having multiple perspectives revolving around the same event if everyone thinks the exact same way and is on the same side?
Additionally, this was "the last execution" in Svendborg, Denmark. I find it a huge missed opportunity and omission that nobody in this book thinks it's wrong or tries to stop it - there could have been a powerful moment about this being the last one. Instead, all we get is a chorus of similar voices looking forward to the execution. Nothing hints at this being the last execution because it's treated like any other ordinary execution of a criminal rather than being a moment in history at the brink of reform. (There's exactly one character who presumably doesn't want the boy to die, but it's pretty obviously for personal reasons and not because they think executions are wrong).
- This book was very one-note in how depressing it was. I felt that it would have been more effective if there was the occasional moment of levity or something other than starvation and unfortunate circumstances. Instead, it was just either the chorus of townspeople looking forward to the execution in the present timeline, or the boy's situation getting worse and worse in the past timeline. I consider The Road pretty depressing too, but I was interested by it and liked the interactions between the boy and his father. Here, the boy and his father just suffer alongside one another hopelessly, too weak for conversations.
The boy has a couple of happier moments with a girl he meets, but these scenes are brief, offer no hope, and don't affect the present timeline except to make it even more depressing because
- Another complaint about the perspectives: Based on the blurb on the back of the book, I thought the townspeople were going to be a lot more connected and relevant to either one another or to the boy. Some honestly felt pointless, and there wasn't any cool a-ha moments that you might expect from a book with different perspectives covering the same timeframe. For example, the first perspective we read after the boy's is the baker's. He is not the greatest guy, complains about rising costs, and just plans what to bake for the execution later that day since he tends to sell a lot on those occasions. His raisin buns are mentioned towards the end since his assistant is selling them to the crowd, but that's all we get from him. Generally, I felt there was a weird choice of perspectives, and that a lot more interesting and important characters could have gotten them instead.
- It's very slow-paced for being such a short book that occurs over 12 hours.
- It's based on a true story, although apparently not a very well-known one because I was unable to find out more about it. I think this is because the author mentions it was more of a local event close to where his sons went to school. Perhaps there's more information about it in Danish?
This is a short read, and I know some people find it very beautifully put-together so I wouldn't discourage anyone from picking this up. I like supporting lesser-known (at least in the U.S.) authors as well as books in translation, and I do think there are great poignant moments here and there. My rating is based on personal enjoyment, but if you have the right expectations going in (that it is just about the unfortunate circumstances that befall as boy, and pretty much nothing else), I could see value in picking this up.
*2023 Popsugar Reading Challenge*
Advanced Prompt #3: A book that takes place entirely in one day
*2023 Around the Year Reading Challenge*
Prompt #3: A book that fits a suggestion that didn’t make the 2023 list. From Poll 4, multi-week prompt:
4 books connected to each other through publication date (week 1), cover color (week 2), country setting (week 3), and title starting letter (week 4)
Books 0 and 1 (same publication year):
Mistress of Rome and The Last Execution (2010)
Books 1 and 2 (same cover color):
The Last Execution and A Day of Fire: A Novel of Pompeii
Books 2 and 3 (country setting):
A Day of Fire: A Novel of Pompeii and Daisy Miller (Italy)
Book 3 and 4 (same title starting letter):
Daisy Miller and Death on the Nile
December 12, 2016
Jesper Wung-Sung beviser endnu engang, at han kan skrive enkel litteratur uden at forsimple.
"Den sidste henrettelse" er fortællingen om den 15-årige Niels, der bliver henrettet på galgebakken i Svendborg. I løbet af fortællingen hører vi om forskellige aktørers forhold til denne henrettelse, og stille og roligt udfoldes bagrunden for begivenheden. Det hele væves sammen i en nervepirrende slutning, der løfter bogen op på meget højt niveau.
"Den sidste henrettelse" er fortællingen om den 15-årige Niels, der bliver henrettet på galgebakken i Svendborg. I løbet af fortællingen hører vi om forskellige aktørers forhold til denne henrettelse, og stille og roligt udfoldes bagrunden for begivenheden. Det hele væves sammen i en nervepirrende slutning, der løfter bogen op på meget højt niveau.
December 28, 2020
Reading through this felt like a different experience. It’s unusual to get a glimpse of the other people surrounding the protagonist in this kind of narrative. Most of the similar plots I’ve read focuses on the main character alone. It’s a refreshing take on the story. How the scenes and chapters were all put together, I really liked how it was written. But it’s still a sad read, though.
March 20, 2016
A short, stark and grim story based upon the tragic fate of fifteen-year-old Niels Nielson, who was executed for arson and murdering a child in Svendborg, Denmark in 1853. Translated from Danish.
February 18, 2022
This was a ready good read! It's really short but packed with such emotion and food for thought!
September 12, 2014
I read this one in less than an hour. The plot is breathtaking. A really thought provoking book.
November 8, 2018
Considering how expensive this book is compared to its length ($11 for a book that's 132 pages) I'm glad I found it on Book Outlet for $0.99, because I'd venture to say that's all this book is worth.
The back of this book says it's marketed as "teen" but it reads a lot more juvenile than the average teen book. It has no complicated prose, historical references, philosophical questions, or even depictions of violence that would make this unsuitable for middle grade or younger.
I don't think that the conceit of this book - each chapter counting down the hours until the execution and from the different perspectives of the townspeople - makes any real impact. The chapters of the townspeople don't interconnect explicitly, so early chapters from the baker have no bearing on a later chapter from the priest, and I think this was just a missed opportunity for a stronger narrative. The repetitive use of poetry is also, in my opinion, pretty superfluous. It doesn't add anything to the chapters and it is just repetitive.
This also doesn't deliver any hard-hitting or thought-provoking discussions about the use of capital punishment. For a book that is all about the last execution in Denmark, I was disappointed there was no broader commentary on WHY this was the last execution. None of the townspeople have any arc in which they come to realize perhaps a fifteen year old does not deserve to be put to death. In the end, this book doesn't offer any conversation points, and perhaps that's not the intent of this book, but I do consider that a big missed opportunity.
Overall, this book just didn't deliver on what I hoped it would and it was a big disappointment. However, this was a very quick read so I at least didn't feel like I wasted too much time on it.
The back of this book says it's marketed as "teen" but it reads a lot more juvenile than the average teen book. It has no complicated prose, historical references, philosophical questions, or even depictions of violence that would make this unsuitable for middle grade or younger.
I don't think that the conceit of this book - each chapter counting down the hours until the execution and from the different perspectives of the townspeople - makes any real impact. The chapters of the townspeople don't interconnect explicitly, so early chapters from the baker have no bearing on a later chapter from the priest, and I think this was just a missed opportunity for a stronger narrative. The repetitive use of poetry is also, in my opinion, pretty superfluous. It doesn't add anything to the chapters and it is just repetitive.
This also doesn't deliver any hard-hitting or thought-provoking discussions about the use of capital punishment. For a book that is all about the last execution in Denmark, I was disappointed there was no broader commentary on WHY this was the last execution. None of the townspeople have any arc in which they come to realize perhaps a fifteen year old does not deserve to be put to death. In the end, this book doesn't offer any conversation points, and perhaps that's not the intent of this book, but I do consider that a big missed opportunity.
Overall, this book just didn't deliver on what I hoped it would and it was a big disappointment. However, this was a very quick read so I at least didn't feel like I wasted too much time on it.
February 3, 2020
The Last Execution by Jesper Wung-Sung was a historical fiction account of the last execution in Denmark's history on February 22, 1853 of a 15 year old boy named Niels Nelson. Niels Nelson was put in jail for murdering the sheriff's son and for arson for burning down the barn. The account was from the alternating perpectives of 11 different bystanders as each chapter counted down how many hours were left until the execution as the boy sat in jail and contemplated his life before he was put in jail. I listed to it on audible and each chapter started with saying "There are 8 hours before the boy is to be executed on Gallows Hill" and each chapter counted down with the same phrase. It was moving and you felt the dread of the execution each time it was read. Each bystander's perspective gave you a glimpse into that time era from the priest, to the baker, to the mayor, to the executioner, and always back to the boy in the jail who got to tell his very sad story that led him to where he was. The one perspective I would have liked to hear in the book was the father's perspective.
I think this deals with many issues that could lead to discussions in the classroom that could be related to to the topic of prison life sentences, executions, and also present day situations in the criminal justice system. The book could foster conversations of the justice in the past and how it has changed and also to human nature and is best suited for 9th graders - 12 graders. It leaves you with that question of who gets to decide who should live or die? I found the book because it was considered an outstanding international book and was an USBBY 2017 award selection as noted in the website for the school library journal (slj.com).
I think this deals with many issues that could lead to discussions in the classroom that could be related to to the topic of prison life sentences, executions, and also present day situations in the criminal justice system. The book could foster conversations of the justice in the past and how it has changed and also to human nature and is best suited for 9th graders - 12 graders. It leaves you with that question of who gets to decide who should live or die? I found the book because it was considered an outstanding international book and was an USBBY 2017 award selection as noted in the website for the school library journal (slj.com).
October 2, 2017
One town's many mouths, a chorus fair,
Whilst a head that still doth stare
Rolls to the ground
Without a sound.
It is the mid 1800’s in Denmark and, Niels Nielsen, a fifteen-year-old boy is to be executed on display of the entire town. The hours are counted down chapter by chapter. It is an event that the town comes together for. Even rejoices. For some, it’s to witness the hand justice swinging its ax on the condemned. For some, it’s the prospect of commerce. For some, there is sadness and pity for a boy that wasn’t born in right social class or family trade. For some, simply enthusiasm, excitement, and opportunity for socialization.
The story of Niels both warms and breaks the heart as you read it. Stylistically switching between flashbacks and present tense feels like a natural voice for the main character as one can empathize with his conflicts. One could posit that simply being poor was their worst crime, being hungry and broken (physically) just accompanies that misfortune. Niels father takes great pride in his work ethic and tries to impress this upon his son to avoid the fate of the workhouse at all costs. “It’s like being buried alive”.
The Last Execution was an intriguing read that left me emotionally connected to the main character while also feeling helpless to comfort him only being an observer. Values continually change and humans have become more civil and compassionate. There will always be room for improvement.
Whilst a head that still doth stare
Rolls to the ground
Without a sound.
It is the mid 1800’s in Denmark and, Niels Nielsen, a fifteen-year-old boy is to be executed on display of the entire town. The hours are counted down chapter by chapter. It is an event that the town comes together for. Even rejoices. For some, it’s to witness the hand justice swinging its ax on the condemned. For some, it’s the prospect of commerce. For some, there is sadness and pity for a boy that wasn’t born in right social class or family trade. For some, simply enthusiasm, excitement, and opportunity for socialization.
The story of Niels both warms and breaks the heart as you read it. Stylistically switching between flashbacks and present tense feels like a natural voice for the main character as one can empathize with his conflicts. One could posit that simply being poor was their worst crime, being hungry and broken (physically) just accompanies that misfortune. Niels father takes great pride in his work ethic and tries to impress this upon his son to avoid the fate of the workhouse at all costs. “It’s like being buried alive”.
The Last Execution was an intriguing read that left me emotionally connected to the main character while also feeling helpless to comfort him only being an observer. Values continually change and humans have become more civil and compassionate. There will always be room for improvement.
December 28, 2018
I have mixed feelings about this novel. When I ordered it I don't think I realized that it's a Young Adult novel when I ordered it...or if I did, I probably thought it would be for an older age group. This is the kind of book I would read in fourth grade. Nevertheless, I read it anyways because the concept seemed interesting and I figured it would be quick.
I didn't like the style at all (perhaps it's a translation issue). It's weird because the writing seemed archaic at times, yet still simple enough for a ten-year-old to read. I suppose this is because the story is set in the mid-nineteenth century, but still. It's awkward. I didn't realize the story was inspired by a true story, so that's cool.
There were elements of the story that I liked, but it didn't really come together. I don't know if it's because the chapters switch between Niels and the townspeople or if it's because I expected something different from the story. There are some interesting observations about classism, justice, religion, and death, but I'm not sure how much a child would gain from it.
The worst part is the romance subplot. Especially because the characters are so flat, there was no reason for me to be invested in them. The best part is the end and how brilliantly Niels reacts to his execution. Honourable mention to the talking fly, despite the magic realism seeming out of place.
I didn't like the style at all (perhaps it's a translation issue). It's weird because the writing seemed archaic at times, yet still simple enough for a ten-year-old to read. I suppose this is because the story is set in the mid-nineteenth century, but still. It's awkward. I didn't realize the story was inspired by a true story, so that's cool.
There were elements of the story that I liked, but it didn't really come together. I don't know if it's because the chapters switch between Niels and the townspeople or if it's because I expected something different from the story. There are some interesting observations about classism, justice, religion, and death, but I'm not sure how much a child would gain from it.
The worst part is the romance subplot. Especially because the characters are so flat, there was no reason for me to be invested in them. The best part is the end and how brilliantly Niels reacts to his execution. Honourable mention to the talking fly, despite the magic realism seeming out of place.
July 2, 2017
This book got my attention solely for the eye-catching cover and title. Once I read the description, I was intrigued. I had no idea what I should expect out of it, but what I got was a sad tale of a boy who really did live and faced the fate told about in the book. I thought I would read a purely fictional account of an execution, but instead, I read into the life of a poor boy who worked with his father on whatever farms would have them and would pay them in food. All he dreamed about was having his own little farm in America with his father and a girl he fell in love with along his wandering. But he burned down a barn and murdered the sheriff's son. Why would he forfeit his dream like that? This account will show you why his situation might not be what it seems, and it will tug at your emotions in the process.
My only negative points to this book are, 1. it took me a few chapters to get into, which, in a book as short as this one, can be damaging to the experience of reading it, and, 2. some of the wording and randomness is hard to keep up with, but perhaps that was just me. Overall, a very touching read that anyone could read through within an hour or two.
My only negative points to this book are, 1. it took me a few chapters to get into, which, in a book as short as this one, can be damaging to the experience of reading it, and, 2. some of the wording and randomness is hard to keep up with, but perhaps that was just me. Overall, a very touching read that anyone could read through within an hour or two.
November 16, 2016
This is one I'll have to mull over and eventually read again. It's a short story that makes you think about a lot of things that plague society (past and present) - the physical and mental effects of poverty on individuals, the often unfair judgment placed upon those in lower classes, and the ongoing debate on the morality surrounding capital punishment. Niels, the boy at the center of "The Last Execution," is by no means innocent, but as you follow his journey from childhood to prison to Gallows Hill, you can't help but feel for him and his situation. This is amplified by getting an insiders' view into the thoughts of the townspeople looking forward to his execution. Without having ever met the boy, they assume he is Satan incarnate. They come off as really mean and cold-hearted, but the most unsettling part of the story is when you realize that you yourself have judged others without knowing their whole story.
Wung-Sung's simple yet powerful words are ones that will stay with you and force you to question a lot of things about the world - and yourself.
Wung-Sung's simple yet powerful words are ones that will stay with you and force you to question a lot of things about the world - and yourself.
October 23, 2023
Every member of the flock must be gathered together. Their number must be complete. There is only one thing that counts: When the ax falls, there must be one hundred out of one hundred!
Niels Nielson has been convicted of arson and murder at the age of 15. His execution is set and as the countdown begins, more and more details surface to learn the truth behind the crime.
This is such a great story to teach perspective. Roughly each chapter reveals the thinking of one community member and the chapter headings are simply a clock face counting down each hour until the beheading. Although the book was originally written in 2010, it has a classic "feel" to it. Be prepared to read many flashbacks as the book often floats between the present and the past. However, I believe there are stronger contemporary titles with this structure like Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes. It is a plus though that the story is set outside the USA/UK (Denmark). Recommended for GR 7 and up.
Niels Nielson has been convicted of arson and murder at the age of 15. His execution is set and as the countdown begins, more and more details surface to learn the truth behind the crime.
This is such a great story to teach perspective. Roughly each chapter reveals the thinking of one community member and the chapter headings are simply a clock face counting down each hour until the beheading. Although the book was originally written in 2010, it has a classic "feel" to it. Be prepared to read many flashbacks as the book often floats between the present and the past. However, I believe there are stronger contemporary titles with this structure like Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes. It is a plus though that the story is set outside the USA/UK (Denmark). Recommended for GR 7 and up.
June 8, 2022
Grabbed this short book off of my shelf of YA books in my classroom as a time-filler on the last day of school. But wow, was I unprepared to read something so beautiful, touching, and heartbreaking in under an hour. The author (Jesper Wung-Sung) tells the story of Denmark’s last execution (with likely many embellishments) in a truly poetic way, alternating between the points of view of the convicted and the townspeople who, in some small way, have a hand in the boy’s upcoming execution. The story is fragmented, with many flashbacks occurring, as the chapters count down each hour until his death. And while author clearly has a bias in support of the condemned prisoner, it is up to the reader to determine if Niels Nielsen is really deserving of his punishment. Regardless, Wung-Sung’s story gently reminds us all that even the basest criminal is still human.
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