Johanna Forss

Johanna Forss is a Finnish publishing professional and author of the novel The Feast (2026). She grew up in central Finland, in a landscape shaped by long, cold winters and intensely luminous summers — an environment that continues to inform her writing.

Forss studied comparative literature at the University of Helsinki, where she earned a Master’s degree in Arts and Humanities. Before beginning her academic studies, she spent a year abroad working various jobs, primarily in London, an experience that broadened her cultural outlook and professional ambitions.

After graduating, Forss began working in publishing as an editor and has since worked across a wide range of roles, including marketing, public relations, editorial development, and acquisitions. This extensive professional background has given her a deep, structural understanding of contemporary literature and the publishing process.

Forss lives in Helsinki. Although writing has been a constant throughout her life, it was long balanced alongside a demanding career and family life. Several years ago, she made a deliberate decision to prioritize her own creative work, which led to the completion of her debut novel. She is currently working on her second novel.

In her spare time, Forss enjoys characteristically Finnish pursuits. She is an avid winter swimmer, practices off-track skiing in northern forests and wetlands, and forages for mushrooms and berries in the forests surrounding Helsinki.

Photo credit: Aapo Huhta/Tammi