Point of View

The story is written in third person from an omniscient perspective. An example of this perspective is when Kristina is thinking about the fact that she is homesick and Karl Oskar knows there is something wrong, but does not know what. The reader is presented with the thoughts of both Karl Oskar and Kristina and so understands the thoughts and concerns of both characters. There are some limitations, though these are seen mainly in the presentations of the minor characters. Notable among these is Anders Mansson. Anders has been in Taylor Falls for several years prior to the arrival of Karl Oskar and his group. During that time, he has worked to clear only a little land, in Karl Oskar's opinion, and Karl Oskar believes that Anders has a secret. When Karl Oskar learns that Anders has been drinking to excess whenever he has the money...