Campfire in the Basement

“What could possibly be wrong with my cousins and I building a campfire on our basement floor? I knew what I was doing. I was eight and had started many previous fires, just not inside the house.”

These opening lines from Darrell Pedersen's new debut novel, “Campfire in the Basement,” caught my attention. This eight-year-olds logic seemed quite plausible to me. Using this incident for the book title was a creative touch. Pedersen's humorous and self-deprecating writing style will hook readers from the start. He understands his own weaknesses and shortcomings and isn't afraid to point them out to his readers. Pedersen is humble and always willing to give credit to others when due. His deep faith has been one of his guiding principles in life. Crisp detailed sentences create scenes for the reader to visualize what his life was like growing up near a lake in the 50s and 60s. With a nickname of lil' dickens, there's bound to be some mischief brewing. Through humorous snippets of his misadventures, whether it be in the classroom, at home, or outdoors, Pedersen is able to connect to his readers through relatable experiences. His storytelling skills are impressive as he writes very detailed scenarios for the reader. Each chapter is a separate vignette that ends with a note of reflection with takeaway lessons from life in the Northwoods. The book covers a wide spectrum of personal experiences from childhood into adulthood, to family life as a dad, husband, grandfather, ELCA pastor, and now author.

The memoir is also a tribute to his parents who raised him and his siblings with faith, dignity, grace, and love, often stressing the importance of getting an education. His mother taught him about faith and service by making sure their family home was a welcoming place at Lake Eier for hosting weekly dinners. Sunday dinners were memorable times when his family and relatives shared stories and did a bit of reminiscing about the good ole' days.

Pedersen grew up in a home with parents who set good examples of what it means to give. He was taught the need to look out for each other and even the whole world. Pedersen's father's greatest joy was being able to bring a smile to another person's face. And so Pederson has come to the realization that what our world needs now more than ever are smiles. He makes it a point to share jokes and stories to lighten the load of others as well as give compliments and express appreciation. Pederson became a pastor as it seemed like that's where his talents were with a passion for helping others. Retirement now brings a new chapter to Pederson's doorstep with the realization that this gift of grace given to him by God will continue to be shared with others.  

Pedersen strives to carry out the legacy left behind by his parents. He and his wife Jennifer offer a welcoming home for their three children, two grandchildren, and visitors. He is filled with gratitude for his family, and all his life experiences and feels blessed with the gift of grace. “Campfire in the Basement” is a book meant to be savored, enjoying a few chapters at a time. Kudos to Pedersen for writing such a fun and meaningful memoir to share with the world.

ALL ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Darrell J Pedersen spent much of his adult life serving others as a parish pastor at numerous Minnesota churches. After nearly 40 years of ministry as an ELCA pastor, he retired and added the title of author to his lengthy resume. Guided by his deep faith, Pedersen hopes that his ability to tell stories, love deeply, and laugh at himself will encourage others to do the same. Pedersen resides in Northern Minnesota with his wife, Jennifer. Together, they have three grown children and thoroughly enjoy being grandma and grandpa to Anders and Bjorn.