The Sons of Nels Swenson

Book excerpt: “The Sons of Nels Swenson” is a coming-of-age story of four young teens whose lives connect as they struggle to move into maturity. Mario Fontanini, grandson of the Swenson’s, is studious, computer savvy, small in stature, and has health issues not conducive to farm work, but he contributes to the business in many other ways. Hans Swenson, their son, is built for farm life, a sports enthusiast, and protector of Mario, and Lupita Morales, the migrant worker’s daughter. Bobby Bengtson lives on a small neighboring pig farm and prides himself with being the school bully, a pretty good liar, and a permanent fixture in the principal’s office. The relationship of these teenagers promises to be a heart rendering tale of social issues with their peers, domestic abuse, death, and first love as they make their way to becoming responsible adults.