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Life in Sweden is becoming increasingly difficult for the Carlson girls. After their mother’s death and their father’s suicide, the three were forced to live with their aunt and uncle. When the situation becomes unbearable, Elin, the oldest, writes to relatives in Chicago, asking for help. When aid comes in the form of passage to America, Elin, Kirsten and Sofia embark on a long and difficult journey to Chicago that will test each of their faiths even as it promises to bring them the secret longings of their hearts. Lynn Austin has written another winner with UNTIL WE REACH HOME. Told from the perspective of all three of the Carlson sisters, this intriguing novel brings readers all of the uncertainty and angst of the difficult immigration process. Ms. Austin writes in incredible vivid detail, penning an enthralling novel that readers will not be able to put down. As the oldest sister, Elin feels a weighty responsibility for Kirsten and Sofia. She knows she can’t protect them in Sweden and so she makes a difficult choice in taking them away from the only home they’ve ever known. To say her sisters are against the idea is an understatement. Neither Kirsten nor Sofia appreciates Elin’s intervention, choosing instead to see it as ‘controlling’ their lives. Except Kirsten’s life is already out of control. Heartbroken from having to leave the boy she loves back in Sweden, she is faced with an even bigger emotional burden when she reaches Ellis Island—one that she must keep secret from everyone, including her sisters. Sofia, the youngest sister, is fearful of what life in America will bring. She didn’t want to leave life on their Swedish farm, preferring to stick her head in the sand and believe that life is rosy. But when she is separated from her sisters, she is forced to become more independent. As she opens herself up to the endless possibilities America has to offer, she finds love where she least expected it. Sofia’s ‘story’ is my favorite of the three sisters. UNTIL WE REACH HOME is an uplifting story that reminds us that although we may suffer rough times and tragedy, God has a plan that will fulfill us. It is a sweeping tale full of emotion and peril and brimming with reminders of God’s grace. This book is not to be missed!
Reviewed by Cindy |
UNTIL WE REACH HOME
Posted September 2008 |
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