Kivirähk

Kivirähk is an Estonian surname. It is carried by several individuals of Estonian origin and is relatively uncommon in its homeland.

The most prominent bearer of the name is Andrus Kivirähk (born in 1970), an Estonian writer, journalist, and public figure. He is known for his satirical and folklore-inspired works that blend contemporary life with traditional Estonian myth and history. Kivirähk has published numerous novels, essays, and plays, and he has been an influential voice in Estonian cultural discourse. His novel Rehepapp (Harvestman) is among his best-known works and is widely regarded for its inventive use of folklore within a modern context.

Rehepapp was adapted into the 2017 Estonian film November, directed by Rainer Sarnet. The film received international attention and won several awards, contributing to the global recognition of Kivirähk’s writing. Beyond fiction, he has contributed to Estonian media and public discussions on culture, language, and national heritage. The surname Kivirähk thus marks a notable literary and cultural presence in Estonia.