Release date is 2023-06-30

Tapio Riikonen

"Suomen rahvaan olo Pietarissa: to'ellinen tapaus" by Tuomas Friman is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The book explores the plight of Finnish peasantry in St. Petersburg, detailing their struggles as they navigate life in a foreign city characterized by poverty and disease. It touches on themes of faith, resilience, and the harsh realities faced by the laboring class during this period. The story follows the character Matti Kilkki, a poor yet noble Finnish peasant who embarks on a perilous journey to St. Petersburg with a load of goods. Alongside him are other travelers, including a blind man and a young mother, all seeking better fortunes. As they navigate treacherous waters, disaster strikes when their boat capsizes, leading to a harrowing fight for survival. Matti's strong character and moral compass shine through, as he encourages his fellow travelers to maintain faith and hope amidst despair. The narrative transitions to depict the grim realities of life in the Finnish quarters of St. Petersburg, where sickness and poverty ravage the community, particularly affecting immigrants like Matti and his family. Ultimately, the tale is one of endurance, highlighting the indomitable spirit of those who seek a better life despite overwhelming odds. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Originally published: Finland: A. F. Cedervaller, 1849