As in his first book, we find the author’s theme centered around memories of growing up in the rural North Woods of Minnesota. Many of these memories involved stories sitting around campfires. This book goes beyond the effect of a warming campfire. It immerses us in memories and stories that will warm our hearts. We are allowed to visit the author’s childhood through a celebration of a life full of God, creation and the happiness found in the love of family and friends.

There are memorable pictures and letters written of and from family throughout the book. We are even given a recipe for a delicious Swedish rye bread. But after reading the stories and memories of the author’s life in the North Woods, we find that we have been given another recipe – a recipe for a great life – one filled with the ingredients of a love of God, love of family and friends and sprinkled with a bit of humor. Thank you for another heart-warming experience!

Rick ZumBrunnen

Architect, Retired

A collection of short stories all of which encourages us to “do the right thing.”

Especially enjoyed the Ojibwe stories of work, survival, love for their family and care for creation, a lot like our own! The travesty they were subjected to by our government was never covered in Minnesota history classes! It also explains the perfect title “Who Will Carry the Fire?”

Sid Johnson

Central Lakes College Machine Trades/Metal Working Instructor, Retired
Brenda Johnson

Brainerd Public School District Administrative Assistant, Retired

Who Will Carry the Fire? is a wonderful sequel to Darrell’s first book, Campfire in the Basement. In both books, Darrell is true to his word when he speaks about his stories being heartfelt, open and positive. His descriptive words paint images in my mind as I read. He reminds me “How powerful the sharing of stories can be. Your stories and mine – stories of history, community and hope.” Playing on his metaphor of fire, Darrell also writes: “Since the days when the earliest people used fire to cook precious food and to defend their group from marauding predators, I am convinced, we humans still need the support of each other, of community, of fire to provide for us and to drive back the things that threaten in our own lives. And to be hopeful for the future. We need each other.” His personal stories and the words of wisdom that he has gleaned from his life experiences invite me to reflect on my own follies and foibles, strengths and shortcomings and to discover there is much to learn, to share and to celebrate.

Jerry Friest

ELCA Hospital Chaplain, Retired

All I can say is Well Done!

Much of my writing includes history that was happening during that time and how it affected my family. I liked the fact that you really included the effect all the immigration had on the local Native American population in your book, Who Will Carry the Fire? More Reflections from a North Woods Lake.

I think that my favorite chapter was “Twelve men in a Deer stand.” Not only do I have people from my past around me in my later years, but was told that this space where I live was the resting spot for the night for many indigenous folks as they headed north or south on their travels. Along with this, my meditation shared with me that Bob and I were led to this spot, and to build, make it a place of peace for all who came and continue to come. Many use part of their time to just nap. Eventually, I stopped questioning their napping!! 

The final comments are that what comes through beautifully is your love of your wife, Jennifer, and the gratitude you have for all that is Jennifer. That, along with love of family, friends and nature. You masterfully intertwine that with your love of God, who gave you the unspoken gift of asking “Why are we here?” and “Who will continue to keep the fire going?” or- better written, “Who Will Carry the Fire?”

Dee Hoffman

Elementary School Teacher, Aitkin, Minnesota, Retired

In his latest book, Darrell Pedersen continues his series of stories and musings about life. This book is evocative of my own small-town childhood. There are the stories of the outdoors where you can literally smell the woods, hear the frogs and soak up the sunset. Darrell is a natural storyteller and whether it is an evening in the backyard, a bitterly cold day in the deer stand or an actual glowing campfire, the stories warm the soul. Memories of family, hope, and faith are woven among the many questions we all ponder as we walk through this world. If you’re looking for a sense of connection and feeling of wonder, this is the book.

Sue Beck

Crow Wing County Community Services Director, Retired

Who Will Carry the Fire? More Reflections from a North Woods Lake, returns us to Northern Minnesota, where life seemed simpler, possessions were few, living close to the land was often harsh, and while “love” was never mentioned, it was the glue that created tightly knit families and communities. This collection of stories expands on the essays from Darrell J. Pedersen’s first book, Campfire in the Basement, inviting us to reflect with Pedersen on how the lessons learned growing up on beloved Eier Lake have shaped and guided him in his relationships with his wife, neighbors, communities, and creation. Our fast-paced world is filled with distractions as people pursue instant gratification. The practice of passing along our stories to future generations is priceless. Pedersen’s gift of writing encourages us to slow down, take a breath, and ponder the beauty and opportunities that we encounter every day. Settle into a comfy chair, light a fire, grab a mug of hot cocoa, and allow this beautiful book to fill you with hope and take you to a place where you remember your stories.

Wendy Adamson

Central Lakes College Director of Institutional Effectiveness, Retired