Of Swedish Ways

My mom's half Swedish half American (Cajun & Irish I think), but she was raised in Sweden, and nearly all of my family on her side is there. Every time I've went to the country, I've been charmed by it, and from someone who knows alot of Swedes and who's visited Sweden, the book hit it right-on. While reading, I was constantly surprised with how accurate it was. I remember coming to the whole section on their Coffee drinking, and I immediately remember my Grandma making delicious Java in her old-fashioned percolater that she still swears by. The book sums up their attitude well too. They are shy if you're a stranger, but are still polite & courteous. They are also very egalitarian and fair, and a girl will ask a guy out just as easily as likewise. They also don't make nearly as big a deal about nudity in beaches or on tv, and get as liberal as they come. Also yes, the women are wonderful cooks. My mom, aunt, and grandma all seems to have it natural to them. I'd like to note though that his book will mainly give you the gist on the past few hundred years of Swedish ways. This is really most useful, because the Swedes have obviously changed quite a bit since the Viking Times, but don't expect a thorough history or anything. This is more of a book about modern Swedish culture with some history and references.

... because my ancient copy of this book seems to have disappeared. Lily Lorenzen was my cousin. Third cousin five times removed or something like that. When I was an aspiring writer of about ten I went to a family reunion (where yes they served lutefisk eeeewwwww) and took the book and mom introduced me. I think she (Lily, not mom) must have been in her 70's or 80's then. A very very sweet lady. As I recall she did her best to talk to me as a semi peer. And she signed my book and now I can't find the thing. ~sigh~ I read that book so many times. I'm sure some of it was beyond me, but for a ten year-old "reader" it was highly readable and remained interesting as I grew older. Guess I'll have to break down and get a PB copy so at least I can read it again.

This fine book is a compilation of the life experiences of wonderful old and new traditions of the people in Sweden. The author dedicated her life to the instruction of Svenska (the Language) and the everyday happenings in Sweden. Though is was written several years ago, it is timeless and always in fashion. The tome is divided into many chapters that are easy to read in that myths and maps as well as traditions and festivities are all introduced to the reader. Ms. Lorenzen was my beloved teacher in Minnesota, where she taught at the University and the American-Swedish Institute for many years.

Although of no Swedish descent, I enjoyed this book thoroughly; since I like to read about different nationalities. But of course the Swedes must like it more for some of the language, which only they can understand.