Gunnar Staalesen was born in Bergen, Norway in 1947, where he still lives today. He is the author of over 20 titles, which have been published in 24 countries and sold over 4 million copies.

Twelve film adaptations of his Varg Veum crime novels have appeared since 2007, starring the popular Norwegian actor Trond Epsen Seim.

When Prince Charles visited Bergen, Staalesen was appointed his official tour guide. There is a life-sized statue of Varg Veum in the centre of Bergen, and a host of Varg Veum memorabilia for sale.