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Alta Halverson Seymour

    Arne und der Weihnachtsstern
    The Tangled Skein
    When the Dikes Broke
    Toward Morning
    On the Edge of the Fjord
    A Grandma for Christmas
    • 2021

      A Grandma for Christmas

      • 64 pages
      • 3 hours of reading

      75th Anniversary Edition. Printed in full color.A Grandma for Christmas is an enchanting story of Christmas in a far-off corner of the world. With the wonderful, unhurried charm of the 19th century, the Roland family celebrates Christmas on their farm in the Norwegian mountains.The hustle and bustle of preparation, days spent in the bakehouse making bread and festive holiday cakes, gifts fashioned in secret by loving hands-though the Rolands celebrate differently, their Christmas spirit is the same as ours today.With Christmas approaching, young Gunnuf Roland is worried about his elderly neighbor, Fru Solem. He brings her kindling, fish to eat, and splits wood for her fire, knowing she needs a little extra help. He remembers his own dear grandmother, listening to her stories, playing games, and many other kindnesses. To Gunnuf it seems there should be a grandma in every home-especially at Christmastime.A glossary of Norwegian terms and seven authentic Norwegian recipes are included. All black and white illustrations have been partly colorized in blue, red and yellow to blend with the original style.\

      A Grandma for Christmas
    • 2021

      Toward Morning

      • 124 pages
      • 5 hours of reading

      Set against the backdrop of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, the story follows fourteen-year-old Teresa and her family as they navigate the chaos and danger of war. Her brother, Janos, leads a group of Freedom Fighters, employing guerrilla tactics to resist Russian forces. As the situation escalates, Teresa's resourcefulness becomes vital in their perilous escape towards the Austrian border, highlighting themes of bravery, family, and resilience amidst turmoil.

      Toward Morning
    • 2021

      The Tangled Skein

      • 234 pages
      • 9 hours of reading

      Set in post-WWII Norway, the story follows 15-year-old Solveig Strand as she returns to her village only to discover her family's dark past, including her brother Roald's involvement as a Nazi spy. Instead of a warm welcome, she faces hostility and suspicion from the community. This exploration of betrayal, family loyalty, and the struggle for acceptance highlights the complexities of living in a war-torn society, where the lines between hero and villain blur.

      The Tangled Skein
    • 2021

      On the Edge of the Fjord

      • 196 pages
      • 7 hours of reading

      The arrival of Nazi officers in a peaceful Norwegian fishing village disrupts the community's idyllic life. The officers occupy the Engeland home, seeking the cooperation of Captain Engeland for their plans. This sudden invasion forces the villagers to confront the harsh realities of war and the impact of occupation on their once-tranquil existence. The story explores themes of resilience and the struggle for survival in the face of tyranny.

      On the Edge of the Fjord
    • 2021

      When the Dikes Broke

      • 132 pages
      • 5 hours of reading

      The narrative centers on the Van Rossem family from Kuyfoort during the devastating flood that struck Holland in January 1953. It highlights the bravery and resilience of the community as they confront the rising waters, engage in rescue efforts, and work to reclaim their homes and land. The story captures the human spirit in the face of natural disaster, showcasing themes of courage, survival, and the determination to rebuild amidst tragedy.

      When the Dikes Broke