"The Old Country"

PEDER VICTORIOUS--O. E. Rolvaag--Harper ($2.50).

At St. Olaf College in Minnesota a Norwegian immigrant, professor of literature, writes many a novel, ships them to "the old country" for publication. Last year however he helped translate one of them into English, called it Giants in the Earth, and was promptly acclaimed an important U. S. novelist.

With the present volume, a sequel, the author shows himself less novelist than professor intent upon the interesting phenomenon of the second generation. He contrasts Beret, reluctant Norwegian immigrant of the earlier volume, with Beret's son Peder, who is impatient with the language, religion and customs of his mother's country. Peder insists upon lessons in English, Bible in English, chatter in English with the Irish neighbors a mile or so. down the road. Then suddenly, fearfully, Beret knows Peder loves the Irish neighbor's daughter. Beret's fury is terrific her sudden capitulation beautiful and tragic-- one of few great moments in the book.

There were more great moments in Giants in the Earth, just as there was greater epic sweep. But Author Roelvaag continues a faithful contributor to Americana.