When I First Came to This Land

Reach for this book when your child is curious about where their family came from or is struggling with the frustration of starting something new. It is a perfect choice for families looking to bridge the gap between history and personal heritage through a medium that feels lighthearted yet deeply meaningful. The story follows a nineteenth-century immigrant who arrives in a new land with nothing and, through rhythmic persistence, builds a farm, a home, and a family. While the book functions as a historical primer on European immigration, its true value lies in its celebration of grit and optimism. The cumulative structure of the poem reinforces the idea that life is built one small success at a time. It is ideally suited for children aged 4 to 9, offering a gentle entry point into conversations about resilience, hard work, and the pride that comes from creating a life through one's own hands.