The Invention of Lefse

October 10, 2011
Novelist Woiwode tells a small tale, timeless as a folktale or myth, in his distinctive voice. An extended family in rural Norway gathers for Christmas in the first decade of the 20th century. Times have been hard, and little can be brought to the family celebration. But flour and milk from one visitor, sugar from another, and potatoes from a third make a rich treat for the family. This is a folksy departure from the standard holiday fare, one that illuminates Norwegian cultural roots, family ways, and the generous hope that is the gift of Christmas. All ages.

September 15, 2011

Lefse is a traditional, Norwegian flatbread made out of potato, milk, and flour and cooked on a griddle. Here, Woiwode tells the story of its invention, as seen through the eyes of young Mette Iversdatter. On Christmas Eve in 12th-century Norway, Mette and her family travel to her grandparents' farm. Her father is unable to shoot a deer on the journey, and the family arrives empty-handed. Family members pull together their meager resources to create a feast, and a new tradition is born. VERDICT Beautifully written, this lovely little gem is bound to become a new Christmas reading tradition for families. Recommend it to parents who love Tomie dePaola's The Legend of the Poinsettia or Michael J. Rosen's Elijah's Angel.

Copyright 2011 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.