Title: Sweden’s Child
Author: Elaine Cornell
Publisher: PageTurner Press and Media
ISBN: 978-1649085412
Pages: 188
Genre: Literature & Fiction/Genre Fiction
Reviewed by: Christina Avina

Read Book Review

It is often said that we do not truly know ourselves until we are faced with seemingly impossible tasks or challenges in our lives. To find the means to survive and face these challenges is a testament to who we really are and what we are truly capable of. The harder the struggles in life, the more inspired and powerful we become in the face of that struggle.

In author Elaine Cornell’s Sweden’s Child, the author presents a tragic yet inspiring tale of a young girl named Inga. Living in Sweden, Inga and her family soon find their lives turned upside down after their father’s years of gambling and drinking have cost them the family farm. As the farm’s loss settles in, their world is rocked further as the family is split apart, and Inga faces the challenge of a toxic environment at her Aunt’s house. She must find a way to escape the life she’s fallen into and make her journey to America, where hope waits for her.

This was a powerful read to say the least. The author is able to push a great amount of backstory and character growth into a relatively short read. The most fascinating thing is the way the author managed to blend cultures, as the predominately Swedish background melded with more traditional religious views. Story elements such as a character’s ability to commune with long lost loved ones or even mythical trolls making their appearances were incorporated in such a way it felt natural to the story; which was tragedy stricken yet hopeful for the future. Inga herself is a memorable protagonist, who faces these challenges head on and help not only herself to find happiness but those she calls friends and family as well, making her a truly well-rounded character.

This is the perfect book for those who enjoy character-driven fiction, with elements of mythology or a people’s culture naturally intertwined with the real world struggles of the protagonist and secondary characters alike. As a fan of this style of writing, it was easy to feel connected to and engaged with the protagonist’s struggle, and while I would caution anyone reading this book to be aware of hints of storylines involving abuse, the book does a great job of addressing these issues and moving forward in a subtle yet relatable way.

A fantastic story with heart, survival and hope, author Elaine Cornell’s Sweden’s Child is a must-read novel. An interesting look into the culture of those not only in Sweden in general but those back in the 19th century who had to find any means necessary to survive hardships and struggles, this is a fast yet detail oriented and engaging read. If you are looking for a great book of overcoming struggle, then this is definitely the book for you.