Through beautifully written storytelling, the reader becomes acquainted with Petra’s life, her struggles, her joy, and the deep connection she had with Icelandic nature and geology. 

Petra was not a scientist in the traditional sense, but a self-taught collector who roamed the mountains and valleys of East Iceland with an eye for the beauty of the earth. She gathered stones with great enthusiasm and preserved them with respect and love. Her collection, which has been open to the public since 1974, reflects not only the geological diversity of Iceland, but also Petra’s worldview and her belief that beauty is all around us—if we take the time to see it. 

Þorgrímur Þráinsson approaches the subject with warmth and respect. He paints a portrait of a woman who lived according to her convictions and created a cultural legacy that continues to live on. The book is not only a biography—it is an inspiration for anyone who wishes to follow their heart and create something lasting from their passion. 

Steina Petra is suitable for readers of all ages and is especially appealing to those interested in nature, geology, history, and personal life stories. It is enriched with photographs and quotations that allow the reader to connect with Petra on a deeper level. This book makes an ideal gift for nature lovers, collectors, and anyone wishing to explore the history, culture, and nature of East Iceland. It reminds us that life is not always about speed and productivity—but about seeing, collecting, and sharing what brings joy and wonder. 

Steina Petra is available in bookstores across Iceland and in the museum shop of Petra’s Stone Collection in Stöðvarfjörður.