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The End of Drum-Time by Hanna Pylväinen - 5* - My Review

Set in the 1850s in the land of the Sámi reindeer herders in Scandinavia (Sápmi), this book tells the story of a people with a simple long-established way of life who become embroiled in massive changes. Settlers have arrived. The surrounding countries (Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia) are enacting laws that affect the Sámi without regard to the nomadic needs of reindeer, which must move across boundaries in order to graze. The Sámi are indigenous people with no political power. Their survival is threatened by this new blend of cultures, languages, and laws.

The settlers establish their own farming methods, trading posts, and Christian churches. They also introduce alcohol, which wreaks havoc on the Sámi in the form of addiction. The storyline focuses on Willa and Nora, daughters of preacher Lars Levi. Willa falls in love with Ivvar, the son of a Sámi herder. Nora develops a relationship with the Swedish merchant Henrik, who has a problem with alcohol. While relationships are central to the plot, it is not a romance novel. The narrative builds to a devastating and dramatic conclusion.

It is a sad story of the decline of an ancient culture, told in a manner that inspires empathy. The writing is evocative of the time and place, including detailed descriptions of the Sámi traditions, environment, and weather. Their lives revolve around the rhythms of nature. Be aware that a routine and necessary part of the Sámi existence involves the slaughter of animals. I appreciated reading about this lesser known (to me) region and people. I highly recommend it to those who enjoy learning more about cultures around the world. It provided the immersive experience that I look for in my reading. It is historical fiction at its best.

Note: Sápmi is the Sámi name for what is typically called Lapland (which the Sámi find offensive).

I really loved this book as well.

Was happy to see that you rated this as highly as I did.

It is the second book, I read about the Sami this year. The other Stolen was a contemporary coming of age story.

Yes, I remember you rated it highly. I was so impressed! I'll take a look at the book you linked. I always enjoy reading about different parts of our world.

Joy D wrote: "Yes, I remember you rated it highly. I was so impressed! I'll take a look at the book you linked. I always enjoy reading about different parts of our world."

The Stolen author is Sami and has written children's books in the past, You can see that she is very in tune to children