ABOUT THIS BOOK

For Matti Ojala and his family, Finnish immigrants in Minnesota, starting a new life in America is both a hardship and an opportunity. When their beloved Uncle Wilho is killed in a tragic mining accident, the family decides they must realize their dream of owning a homestead in the wilderness. This means constant hard work and new challenges for the entire family. But it also means that Matti, the “in-between” child, has his chance to shine. Whether he’s looking after his younger sisters, clerking in a general store, teaching English, or clearing the land with Father, Matti strives to prove himself to Father and escape his older brother’s shadow.


REVIEWS

“Entwines coming-of-age themes with immigrant/settler experiences.”—Publishers Weekly, Starred

“Compelling historical fiction with a male point of view.”—School Library Journal

“A rich introduction to both an important aspect of the American experience and a memorable and immensely likable family.”—Booklist


From the Trade Paperback edition.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

William Durbin, a high school English teacher, is the author of Wintering, The Broken Blade (winner of the Great Lakes Book Award for Fiction and the Minnesota Book Award, Young Readers Category), and other books.


RELATED LINKS

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