About
Finnish author best known for his influential 1945 historical novel The Egyptian. He was one of the most prolific writers of his era, penning 29 novels, 26 plays and 6 poetry collections.
Before Fame
He was a theology student at the University of Helsinki and published his first book in 1925.
Trivia
He worked in the Finnish government information center, where used his talents to write political propaganda.
Family Life
His daughter, Satu, also became a writer.
Associated With
His most famous book, The Egyptian, was adapted into a Hollywood film by Academy Award-winning director Michael Curtiz.