The book chronicles an adventurous summer journey through the less-traveled regions of Finland, undertaken by two women in the face of personal loss and a desire for demanding work. The narrative opens with their arrival in Helsingfors, describing the city's unique architectural blend, the slow pace of local life, and the distinctive characters of the horse-drawn droschky drivers. The travelers then venture deeper into the countryside, experiencing the extraordinary warmth and hospitality of Finnish home life on island retreats like Ilkeäsaari. Throughout the journey, the author details the unique national institutions, most notably the traditional smoke saunas and waterfalls, which offer moments of both physical trial and deep refreshment.
A detour to the massive Ladoga lake brings a memorable stay at the remote Russian monastery of Valamo, where the rigorous monastic routine and interactions with the resident novices provide a profound contrast to the surrounding wilderness. The journey continues through musical festivals at Sordavala, where ancient Runo singing and traditional peasant weddings preserve the spirit of the national epic, the Kalevala. The text concludes with reflections on the nation's resilient character, its advanced education system, and the remarkable social standing of its women, offering an enduring portrait of a proud northern land.
