brenticus reviewed Björkan Sagas by Harold R. Johnson
Finnish and indigenous perspectives combine to make a beautiful story
5 stars
The saga itself is bizarre, to be sure, but also very interesting. In a short period it provides several different lenses through which we can see how indigenous and colonizer perspectives can clash, but also how their combination can put forth even more wonderful ideas. The power of stories is central to the indigenous perspective and that is presented here in both literal and figurative manners, while also highlighting the limits of these stories to really make a difference when they are pushed against.
The framing of the prologue and epilogue add additional layers to the story, although I'm unsure whether they strengthen or weaken the core themes. Was it actually real? Does it matter? It's interesting, at the very least, and that's the most important bit.