Release date is 2023-08-11

Sirkku-Liisa Häyhä-Karmakainen and Tapio Riikonen

"Älä nuolaise ennenkuin tipahtaa! : Romaani" by Hilja Valtonen is a novel written in the late 1920s. The story revolves around the main character, Varpu Vapaa, an orphan girl who navigates through life from a childhood marked by hardship and isolation to adulthood filled with aspirations and romantic hopes. The narrative explores themes of class struggle, personal identity, and the complexities of relationships in a rapidly changing society. The opening of the novel introduces us to Varpu's early life, highlighting her struggles as the daughter of a drunken father and a hard-working mother. Despite the adversity, Varpu exhibits a strong desire to shape her own destiny and escape the confines of her past. As she grows up, she yearns for education and a better life, securing a position in a shop while dreaming of a life that transcends her humble beginnings. The narrative sets a tone of resilience and determination, positioning Varpu as a relatable character who seeks independence and happiness amidst societal challenges and personal turmoil. This initial glimpse into her childhood lays the groundwork for her subsequent journey to find love and acceptance in a complex world. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Originally published: Helsinki: Otava, 1960