Description: Through the traumatic years of Finland's emergence as an independent nation, Tyra struggled with her understanding of God. Friends and family died through frightening natural disaster, the horrors of repeated wars, and a devastating murder in the family. Just when she thought her life was beginning to make sense, and Finland was no longer at war, her husband was evicted from the land he was farming, and to cope financially they were forced to migrate first to Arctic Sweden, and then to subtropical Australia. But finally, as she looked back over her life, she could see that the senseless made sense, and through everything God had a purpose.
Brief description: Elizabeth Ostring is retired musculoskeletal physician who joined the ranks of theologians later in life. She admits to a strong interest in people and their lives, and how theology impacts their ordinary every day life. She loves writing and reading, and various handicrafts. She is senior elder at her church and holds regular Bible studies in person and by zoom.
Review Quotes: "A gripping story! Full of surprises and tragedy. How much can one family handle? It depicts life in times of war and poverty in Finland but triumphs through faith in God in Australia. A truly compelling and sensitive read that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the last word."
--Vernon Parmenter, former associate secretary, General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
"Out of the frozen North, Elizabeth Ellen Ostring has crafted a heart-warming tale of the real-life adventures of real people. Ostring knew Tyra personally and grew to understand her times and culture enough to transmit them effectively to us. This is an enjoyable read with the potential to teach much."
--Carole Ferch-Johnson, sessional lecturer, Avondale University College, Australia
"This is a remarkable book about the life of a remarkable woman. It is a story of family, faithfulness, and endurance in the face of grave threats and many hardships in wartime Finland leading to a new life in Australia. This story will inspire as it traces God's leading through Tyra's life and renew our trust in a God who is with us, even in the most difficult of circumstances."
--Brad Kemp, CEO, Adventist Media
"This is indeed a story of 'true grit.' Easy to read, the story is both impressive and respectful, as it traces the lives of Tyra's family, showing clearly how belief in God and having true values enable people to cope in times of extreme pressure."
--Kathryn Lewis, retired business analyst