Book Review of The Norsemen in the West

The Norsemen in the West is a tale of a settlement in Vinland under a man named Karlsefin. The story begins in the icy land of Greenland with Leif Ericson, who is content to live with his son Olaf, his pretty widowed sister-in-law Gudrid, and his good friend Biarne. People didn't visit Greenland very often, so when 2 ships appear on the horizon, bearing the Christian captain Karlsefin and his friend a fellow captain of the other ship, Thorward, excitement begins.

The old friends sup together that night with which supper ends with a bang. They are attacked by the Norsemen's enemy, the Skraelingers. Soon after the attack, Karlsefin marries Gudrid, and Thorward marries the masculine and hot headed Fredissa. That spring, they sailed for Vinland with a large party of men, women, children, and cattle. They encounter some adventure, but when they reach Vinland, more adventure awaits them. They get settled in Vinland and take place in activities, such as fishing and hunting, when suddenly a savage is seen! Soon afterwards, they are attacked. The day is saved by Olaf's pet bull. Later, Karlsefin and Gudrid are blessed with a baby boy, who they name Snorro. Several years pass before Snorro and Olaf fall into temptation by going into the woods, which were forbidden to go in and are captured by natives. After this, a splendid chase ensues. Karlsefin and a group of men give chase to go rescue Snorro and Olaf. Meanwhile back at the village, the rest of the men and women are defending their lives from more savages!

The Norsemen in the West is a beautiful masterpiece by Ballantyne. The story teaches boys and girls, young and old alike, the power of loving your enemies, the supremacy of God, and the consequences of sin. I highly recommend this book.