Blue Harvest

by Jack C. Kraywinkle

Farming is not just Oscar Halvorson's livelihood but his life, and the Depression has taken nearly everything but the land itself. His acreage is still not entirely his own. Oscar faithfully paid his loans during the lean years, but he faces foreclosure soon, unless he can pay off the bank loan. Oscar's plight has haunted him all winter. Banker E.A. Stordal is in no mood to bargain, and has ambitions of becoming a wealthy land owner. With the only life he's ever known at risk, Oscar gambles with fate and a bargain for a widow's fallow land with the potential to save everything. In the midst of their arduous efforts, he finds redemption, a new life, and a late-blooming love. This beautifully lyrical story is a reassurance that it's never too late for love. Filled with a spirituality that's ever-present in the characters' lives and situations, Blue Harvest is a testament to survival despite overwhelming odds.

248 pages, Paperback

First published April 17, 2009

Reviews

[Candace Simar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book set in rural Minnesota in the 1930s. A bachelor farmer finds romance after a lifetime of loneliness. I wish I could give it more stars. It's that good.

[Sue Ready · Rating 5 out of 5]

The lyrical prose of Jack Kraywinkle's debut novel captures the essence of the seasonal and daily routine of the Scandinavian farming community around 1939, at the end of the Great Depression, on the cusp of World War II. A layer of spirituality adds depth to the narrative as the protagonist, Oscar Halvorson, reculsive by nature, grapples with farming challenges as well as figuring out his purpose and place within the community. His uncertainty in accepting a late-blooming love into his life makes him an endearing character.

Halvorson, a lifelong bachelor and farmer, whose livelihood depends on his land, faces foreclosure unless he can reap a plentiful crop to pay off an upcoming bank loan. He decides to take a risk and strikes a deal with Widow Esther Holmvik, who lives nearby, to lease her land to plant flax. Along the way, Halvorson finds unexpected love, friendship, redemption, and a sense of inner peace.

Vivid descriptive sentences develop a sense of place and the pulse of a strong and dedicated farming community that supports and helps one another through good times and bad. Kraywinkle's writing shines with authenticity, as it recalls his own childhood and conversations with his parents and other relatives, bringing this time period to life for readers. The Norwegian dialect was interspersed throughout the story, always accompanied by a brief English translation, but it did not slow down the narrative pace. Unexpected plot developments kept my interest, as well as strong character development. The introduction of 10-year-old Henry, Widow Esther's grandson, and his antics with his ever so many questions added a lighthearted tone to the storyline. Indeed, this is a fictional story of heritage. But based on stories, personal observations, and memories that were part of the author's formative years, "Blue Harvest" becomes a testament to survival despite overwhelming odds. It's an impressive debut novel.

[Julius Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first chapter, I was drawn into Oscar Halvorson’s world. The struggles of the Depression era farm life are vividly depicted, and the emotional depth of the story blending hardship, hope, and love is extraordinary. A must read for anyone who appreciates historical fiction with heart.

[Alice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blue Harvest is a story that balances hardship with hope, showing the resilience of the human spirit. Oscar’s journey through financial peril, personal challenges, and unexpected love is captivating. Kraywinkle’s lyrical writing and heartfelt storytelling make this a book to treasure.

[Ana Reyes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel captures the spirit of resilience and determination beautifully. Oscar’s fight to save his farm, his connection to the land, and his eventual personal growth and love are inspiring. Blue Harvest is a story that reassures readers that it’s never too late to find redemption or happiness.

[Sandi]

The story started slowly but the characters came to life and I loved it , I didn’t want it to end.