At Home in a New Land (I Can Read Book Series: Level 3) Book

Finally, Carl Erik and his family have come to the end of their long journey from Sweden to their new home in Minnesota! But Carl Erik finds that though the trip is over, a whole new adventure awaits. He must attend a new school where lessons are taught in English. His closest neighbors just happen to be Indians. And when his father travels to a distant town to work, Carl Erik must face the challenges of being the man of the house—including finding a way to feed his family. Will Carl Erik ever feel at home in his new land?

Joan Sandin creates a moving portrait of the uncertainty, eagerness, and triumphs that come with moving to a new country.

Children's Literature

This book begins with an immigrant boy waking up on a Missouri farm after a long trip from with his parents from Sweden. Carl Erik is living with his aunt, uncle and cousin until his parents can build their own home. Carl is excited about his move to America, but he is also frightened. He has to start school and learn English, and he wonders if he will ever feel accepted in his new home. When his father and uncle leave for a logging camp to earn money, Carl is left to watch out for the women and help with the chores. He also begins school, walking through the woods to a neighbor's house for lessons. Carl only knows how to speak Swedish initially and is teased by a boy who calls him dumb. However, Carl soon learned how to read English. He also learned how to live in cooperation with the area Indians. One day he gave some potatoes to an Indian who had come to his door, hungry. In return, the Indian leaves some meat for him by the front door. The story ends sweetly with the men's return and a happy holiday for all. This "I Can Read" book tells a simple, but interesting story that young readers can read independently and enjoy. Reviewer: Della A. Yannuzzi