I've wanted to travel to Iceland for ages now. I've attempted to teach myself Icelandic (that didn't last long, mostly because I couldn't quite find the right resources; I plan to pick it up when I have more free time to do so), and I'm very interested in the mythology of the area. So, seeing a game-filled travel book was immediately compelling.

I did receive this as a digital ARC, so please factor that into my rating and review of the book (which I assume would be far more delightful in its intended print format, as many of the games are geared for physical interactivity, like with the use of a pen or a die).

If you're looking for a traditional travel guide for Iceland, this is not where you should be looking. Instead, Armchair Iceland invites you to invest time into learning about the country through a series of games and puzzles.

First and foremost, what immediately struck me was that many of the games rely on internet access and use to find answers, or prior knowledge of the geography, history and culture of Iceland to complete. This inherently seems to go against my expectations of this book, which was that it would contain information that would then test our comprehension, memory and logic, rather than containing steps to take that require any outside source or additional research.

These games serve less as entertainment and more as a means with which to specifically plan your trip. Some are tied to specific locations, or ask you as the reader to entertain scenarios that are not actually occurring. (I am particularly thinking of the D&D-style game included). While they do provide some background on the places you are apparently visiting, the games do not provide as much information on the locations as I'd want in a travel guide, even when masquerading as a book of puzzles.

I do think this would be a fun thing to take with you if you are already on a trip in Iceland, or have one planned, but it is rather limited in scope. It does not provide you with enough information about the areas one can visit to make many informed decisions without further research; it is far more apt to call it a puzzle book that is Iceland-themed as opposed to one that actually aids travel. But as someone who is currently not Iceland-bound and has no upcoming trip in sight, I sadly am either not the specific audience for this book or simply am unable to enjoy it without that immediate context.

Thanks to NetGalley and Vegout Voyage for the digital ARC of the book in exchange for my honest review!

Rating: 2 stars

Review posted to StoryGraph: August 19, 2025 (https://app.thestorygraph.com/reviews/28da4c99-b7f0-4b51-abab-54ed89cfc08d)

If Iceland has ever made it onto your bucket list—or if you’re simply looking for a fun, screen-free escape—Armchair Iceland delivers a clever and refreshing adventure from the comfort of home. This travel-meets-puzzle book combines cultural insights with brain-boosting activities, making it a perfect pick for travelers, trivia fans, and puzzle enthusiasts alike.

The concept is simple but brilliant: instead of scrolling on your phone or passively reading, you get to engage with Iceland. From Viking sagas and folklore to volcanic craters and northern lights, every section weaves geography, history, and culture into a hands-on puzzle experience. One moment you’re tackling a crossword set in Reykjavík, the next you’re solving riddles inside an imaginary ice cave or embarking on a Dungeons & Dragons–style quest through Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.

What makes Armchair Iceland stand out is its variety. Expect sudoku, word searches, spot-the-difference challenges, trivia, mazes, scavenger hunts, and even quirky personality quizzes. The mix keeps things fresh, ensuring that no two “stops” on your journey feel the same. It’s a playful, interactive way to learn fun facts and hidden gems about Iceland without feeling like a textbook.

Whether you’re planning a future trip, reminiscing about past travels, or just craving something different to do on a cozy evening, this book offers a bite-sized, low-pressure escape that’s both entertaining and educational. Vegout Voyage has created a unique format that blends puzzles with storytelling, and Armchair Iceland is easily one of their most charming editions yet.