An author, creative and a musician, based in Helsinki, raised in Pietarsaari.

Debut novel "Pete" published by Kosmos in 2022.

The novel won the Ilkka-Pohjalainen literature prize 2023, was shortlisted for the Helsingin Sanomat literary award for the best debut novel and chosen as one of the best novels of 2022 by the literary critics of Helsingin Sanomat.

Represented internationally by Bonnier Rights.

Said about Pete:

"A searing but tender novel about a dead father, exploring the search for a better life and addiction through Kurt Cobain, The Simpsons, and white trash by an author hailed as a young, Finnish Knausgård."

"Taking a deep dive into themes of humanity, addiction, The Simpsons, white trash, Kurt Cobain’s mind, family relationships and the essence of who we really are, PETE is a tender and deeply philosophical novel about addiction, the search for a better life and a father who died in uncertain circumstances, told with a disarming openness, directness, and warmth. With his working-class roots and autobiographical and unflinching narrative that draw comparisons to Eduoard Louis’ Who Killed My Father, Verkkapuro showcases his raw talent in this, his acclaimed debut."

‘There is something irresistible about the writer’s sincere, jagged desire to say something. What is most telling about the novel is its deep empathy. The main character of the story doesn’t blame his parents for his broken childhood and his own addictions, putting love first.’ – ‘Ilkka-Pohjalainen’ Literary Prize jury

‘Western Helsinki’s Knausgaard’ – Helsingin Sanomat newspaper

‘The twists in the narrative are sometimes unexpected, and towards the end, the novel expands into an essay that deals with drugs, addiction and self-knowledge from perspectives that are fresh to the reader. Even as a novel, Pete is open to surprises and new forms, making it one of the year’s most inspiring debuts.’ – Helsingin Sanomat Debut Prize jury

‘A very good and even surprising book. It’s not an indictment, but rather a work full of love moving towards understanding and reconciliation. Thought- and feeling-provoking. Recommended!’ – Juha Itkonen, author

‘An impressive read.’ – Helmi Kekkonen, author

‘Verkkapuro has such strength as a narrator that I would like to read more works by him. A unique book which, in addition to being very much for our times, is also an excellent conversation-starter on a subject that is rarely spoken about – the defense of a sustainable, humane substance abuse policy.’ – Mitä luimme kerran blog, Finland