Describe the lives of Karl Oskar and Kristina Nilsson. Are they happy with their lives? Why do you think so? Describe their families and friends. What is it about the fact that they have neighbors that is so exciting to Kristina?

Who is Robert Nilsson? Why is he not working the farm with Karl Oskar? What kind of person is he? What does he come to accept about his situation in life? What is his eventual fate?

Describe the trip undertaken by Robert and Arvid. What prompts them to take the trip? What is the result of the trip?

Who is Ulrika Jackson? What is her faith? How does that create a problem for Kristina? Who is Ulrika's husband? What does she believe when she gives birth to a girl instead of the boy she'd wanted so badly? What does that say about her...