Finntown Girl

By Gloria Smith

A young girl. A troubled home. A future she refuses to surrender.

Growing up in the Finnish settlement of Finntown, Georgia, during the 1940s and 1950s, Lori dreams of a life filled with possibility. Instead, she faces poverty, uncertainty, and the daily challenges of living with an abusive alcoholic father.

While her home life is marked by fear and hardship, the close-knit Finnish community surrounding her offers friendship, faith, and hope. From country stores and schoolyard adventures to family struggles and life-changing lessons, Lori learns that strength often comes from the most difficult circumstances.

As the years pass, she watches her mother endure heartbreak, confronts the realities of family dysfunction, and discovers the courage to chart her own path. Refusing to become a victim of her circumstances, Lori is determined to build a better future than the one she was given.

Rich with historical detail and inspired by the unique Finnish-American community of McKinnon (known locally as Finntown), this moving historical family saga celebrates resilience, perseverance, and the power of hope.

Perfect for readers of women's historical fiction, coming-of-age novels, inspirational fiction, and stories of overcoming adversity.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 197727725X
• ISBN13: 9781977277251
• Release Date: April 2025
• Publisher: Outskirts Press
• Length: 174 Pages
• Weight: 0.53 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 6.0" x 9.0"
• Age Range: 13 to 18 years
• Grade Range: Grade 8 to Postsecondary