Book Review Blue Harvest

 

The lyrical prose of Jack Kraywinkle's debut novel captures the essence of the seasonal and daily routine of the Scandinavian farming community around 1939, at the end of the Great Depression, on the cusp of World War II.  A layer of spirituality adds depth to the narrative as the protagonist, Oscar Halvorson, reculsive by nature, grapples with farming challenges as well as figuring out his purpose and place within the community. His uncertainty in accepting a late-blooming love into his life makes him an endearing character. 

Halvorson, a lifelong bachelor and farmer, whose livelihood depends on his land, faces foreclosure unless he can reap a plentiful crop to pay off an upcoming bank loan. He decides to take a risk and strikes a deal with Widow Esther Holmvik, who lives nearby, to lease her land to plant flax.  Along the way, Halvorson finds unexpected love, friendship, redemption, and a sense of inner peace. 

Vivid descriptive sentences develop a sense of place and the pulse of a strong and dedicated farming community that supports and helps one another through good times and bad. Kraywinkle's writing shines with authenticity, as it recalls his own childhood and conversations with his parents and other relatives, bringing this time period to life for readers. The Norwegian dialect was interspersed throughout the story, always accompanied by a brief English translation, but it did not slow down the narrative pace. Unexpected plot developments kept my interest, as well as strong character development. The introduction of 10-year-old Henry, Widow Esther's grandson, and his antics with his ever so many questions added a lighthearted tone to the storyline. Indeed, this is a fictional story of heritage. But  based on stories, personal observations, and memories that were part of the author's formative years, "Blue Harvest" becomes a testament to survival despite overwhelming odds. It's an impressive debut novel.  

ALL ABOUT THE AUTHOR JACK KRAYWINKLE

Jack Kraywinkle is a local author who lives with his wife, Kay, just outside of Brainerd, MN. Kraywinkle is retired and spends his time carving in his workshop and writing. He loves the outdoors and spending time in the woods, mostly by himself. "Blue Harvest" is his first novel, and it’s based on many childhood memories of being on his grandmother’s farm and the people, places, and things that happened long ago. The Depression era is a favorite time period for his writing. Kraywinkle is currently working on a new book, "North of Highway 2," a collection of short stories expected to be published later this summer.