Pietolan Tytöt

''Pietolan tytöt'' by Heikki Meriläinen is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story appears to revolve around a family living in the rural setting of Pietola, highlighting the lives of the daughters, particularly their interactions and experiences in the natural environment surrounding their home. With a focus on the daily lives, struggles, and aspirations of the family members, the narrative provides a glimpse into the dynamics of rural Finnish life. The opening of the novel paints a vivid picture of the Pietola homestead, nestled by a lake and surrounded by mountains and forests. It introduces the main characters, particularly the mother Liisa and the father Pieto, along with their nine daughters, showcasing the warmth and challenges of their agrarian lifestyle. The beginning emphasizes themes of family, gender roles, and the connection to nature, as the daughters engage in various activities, from caring for younger siblings to helping with household chores. As the family navigates their daily lives, moments of joy and familial affection contrast with underlying tensions, such as the father's disappointment over having daughters instead of sons.