Prairie Pioneers

About the Book

Prairie Pioneers is an adventure story of a group of Norwegian immigrants who traveled from Lisbon, Illinois to Story County, Iowa in 1854. It is historical fiction, based on some facts, but generously augmented with interesting invention. The central character in the story is Ole Apland, who gives leadership and inspiration to his traveling companions. Ole braves hardships and faces dangers on the 600-mile trek. Along the way, he forms a friendship with one of the young women, so that, at the journey’s end, the two of them are ready to begin a new life in the Midwest Scandinavian community.

About the Author

Kent Freeland is Professor Emeritus of Education at Morehead State University in Morehead, Kentucky. He draws inspiration from his Norwegian, English and Welsh ancestry when he writes historical fiction novels. Other books he has authored recently are Norwegian Saga, Odyssey to Iowa, Whitney Tales from England, and Journey’s Edge.