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Campfire in the Basement
A self-described "little dickens" during his growing up years, the author shares memories of a not-well-thought-out campfire in the basement and the tragic misadventures of being asked to care for the class goldfish over Christmas. Pedersen's stories will remind readers of their youth when old country stores were "candy heaven" and how every little boy wanted to be like the cowboys from Gunsmoke.
"Campfire in the Basement" includes memories of heartache, loss, and long goodbyes. But these tough retellings create a perfect balance of relatable stories and raw authenticity. This book is not only a memoir; it is a reminder of the pure joys in life and how faith can help us through the good times and the bad. Campfire in the Basement will keep readers engaged from the first page to the last.
"Campfire in the Basement" includes memories of heartache, loss, and long goodbyes. But these tough retellings create a perfect balance of relatable stories and raw authenticity. This book is not only a memoir; it is a reminder of the pure joys in life and how faith can help us through the good times and the bad. Campfire in the Basement will keep readers engaged from the first page to the last.
- GenresMemoir
291 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 12, 2023
5 people are currently reading
2274 people want to read
About the author
Darrell J. Pedersen
5 books10 followersDarrell J. Pedersen was raised in the 1950-60s, on a little lake in Minnesota’s North Woods. He grew up and moved away, but his heart has never left that place. His family, the lake, woods, and critters that embraced his young life taught him to appreciate today and to be hopeful for tomorrow. He learned to care for the creation and the neighbor. To leave the world a little better place than he found it.
Since retirement, he has published his first memoir/collection of essays, Campfire in the Basement: Reflections from a North Woods Lake. One year later, Who Will Carry the Fire? More Reflections from a North Woods Lake is now in your hands. Both books include real life stories of everyday people living one day at a time in a challenging, yet amazing world. Hard work, laughter, tears, wins and losses. He believes you will find your story here too. Darrell and his wife, Jennifer, live in Baxter, Minnesota.
Since retirement, he has published his first memoir/collection of essays, Campfire in the Basement: Reflections from a North Woods Lake. One year later, Who Will Carry the Fire? More Reflections from a North Woods Lake is now in your hands. Both books include real life stories of everyday people living one day at a time in a challenging, yet amazing world. Hard work, laughter, tears, wins and losses. He believes you will find your story here too. Darrell and his wife, Jennifer, live in Baxter, Minnesota.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 19, 2024
A delightfully told series of stories about life in northern Minnesota. Some folks have a natural ability as storytellers. Darrell Pedersen is one of them.
May 8, 2023
“What could possibly be wrong with my cousins and I building a campfire on our basement floor? I knew what I was doing. I was eight and had started many previous fires, just not inside the house.”
These opening lines from Darrell Pedersen's new debut novel, “Campfire in the Basement,” caught my attention. This eight-year-olds logic seemed quite plausible to me. Using this incident for the book title was a creative touch. Pedersen's humorous and self-deprecating writing style will hook readers from the start. He understands his own weaknesses and shortcomings and isn't afraid to point them out to his readers. Pedersen is humble and always willing to give credit to others when due. His deep faith has been one of his guiding principles in life. Crisp detailed sentences create scenes for the reader to visualize what his life was like growing up near a lake in the 50s and 60s. With a nickname of lil' dickens, there's bound to be some mischief brewing. Through humorous snippets of his misadventures, whether it be in the classroom, at home, or outdoors, Pedersen is able to connect to his readers through relatable experiences. His storytelling skills are impressive as he writes very detailed scenarios for the reader. Each chapter is a separate vignette that ends with a note of reflection with takeaway lessons from life in the Northwoods. The book covers a wide spectrum of personal experiences from childhood into adulthood, to family life as a dad, husband, grandfather, ELCA pastor, and now author.
The memoir is also a tribute to his parents who raised him and his siblings with faith, dignity, grace, and love, often stressing the importance of getting an education. His mother taught him about faith and service by making sure their family home was a welcoming place at Lake Eier for hosting weekly dinners. Sunday dinners were memorable times when his family and relatives shared stories and did a bit of reminiscing about the good ole' days.
Pedersen grew up in a home with parents who set good examples of what it means to give. He was taught the need to look out for each other and even the whole world. Pedersen's father's greatest joy was being able to bring a smile to another person's face. And so Pederson has come to the realization that what our world needs now more than ever are smiles. He makes it a point to share jokes and stories to lighten the load of others as well as give compliments and express appreciation. Pederson became a pastor as it seemed like that's where his talents were with a passion for helping others. Retirement now brings a new chapter to Pederson's doorstep with the realization that this gift of grace given to him by God will continue to be shared with others.
Pedersen strives to carry out the legacy left behind by his parents. He and his wife Jennifer offer a welcoming home for their three children, two grandchildren, and visitors. He is filled with gratitude for his family, and all his life experiences and feels blessed with the gift of grace. “Campfire in the Basement” is a book meant to be savored, enjoying a few chapters at a time. Kudos to Pedersen for writing such a fun and meaningful memoir to share with the world.
These opening lines from Darrell Pedersen's new debut novel, “Campfire in the Basement,” caught my attention. This eight-year-olds logic seemed quite plausible to me. Using this incident for the book title was a creative touch. Pedersen's humorous and self-deprecating writing style will hook readers from the start. He understands his own weaknesses and shortcomings and isn't afraid to point them out to his readers. Pedersen is humble and always willing to give credit to others when due. His deep faith has been one of his guiding principles in life. Crisp detailed sentences create scenes for the reader to visualize what his life was like growing up near a lake in the 50s and 60s. With a nickname of lil' dickens, there's bound to be some mischief brewing. Through humorous snippets of his misadventures, whether it be in the classroom, at home, or outdoors, Pedersen is able to connect to his readers through relatable experiences. His storytelling skills are impressive as he writes very detailed scenarios for the reader. Each chapter is a separate vignette that ends with a note of reflection with takeaway lessons from life in the Northwoods. The book covers a wide spectrum of personal experiences from childhood into adulthood, to family life as a dad, husband, grandfather, ELCA pastor, and now author.
The memoir is also a tribute to his parents who raised him and his siblings with faith, dignity, grace, and love, often stressing the importance of getting an education. His mother taught him about faith and service by making sure their family home was a welcoming place at Lake Eier for hosting weekly dinners. Sunday dinners were memorable times when his family and relatives shared stories and did a bit of reminiscing about the good ole' days.
Pedersen grew up in a home with parents who set good examples of what it means to give. He was taught the need to look out for each other and even the whole world. Pedersen's father's greatest joy was being able to bring a smile to another person's face. And so Pederson has come to the realization that what our world needs now more than ever are smiles. He makes it a point to share jokes and stories to lighten the load of others as well as give compliments and express appreciation. Pederson became a pastor as it seemed like that's where his talents were with a passion for helping others. Retirement now brings a new chapter to Pederson's doorstep with the realization that this gift of grace given to him by God will continue to be shared with others.
Pedersen strives to carry out the legacy left behind by his parents. He and his wife Jennifer offer a welcoming home for their three children, two grandchildren, and visitors. He is filled with gratitude for his family, and all his life experiences and feels blessed with the gift of grace. “Campfire in the Basement” is a book meant to be savored, enjoying a few chapters at a time. Kudos to Pedersen for writing such a fun and meaningful memoir to share with the world.
March 27, 2023
I really enjoyed this memoir. Mr. Pedersen is a great storyteller and I loved the warm tributes to his relatives. It is well written; it strikes strong emotions; his words are written in such a way that made this reader laugh and cry. The first line of the first story “Campfire in the basement”, is a great hook and I could picture the scene quite easily. I also found this book ran parallel to the television series, “The Waltons” and “Little House on the Prarie”; meaning that life was hard and people had to work hard. Their lives did not center on entitlement. You fell on hard times you made it work, you had times of plenty, you gave to those who didn’t. Material gain came from hard work but what made these people rich was love for family and helping others who needed help. Each story had vivid scenes and it was easy to put myself into those stories. It was easy to read and relatable like having to walk home in the dark down a long dirt road. And, in each of the stories he told there was something to take away from each one. Each person Mr. Pedersen wrote about was filled with love for that indiviual, it is easy to see he wrote from his heart. We all want a place by the lake, we all long for tranquility and should view life being about love. We should all be surprised at even the smallest of things such as Wintergreen lifesavers sparking. If “Campfire in the Basement” were to ever become a television series, I’d watch it.
April 10, 2023
In CAMPFIRE IN THE BASEMENT, Darrell Pedersen proves you don’t have to be famous to write a successful and engaging memoir. Whether you’re a movie star, a professional athlete, a renowned international politician, or a retired pastor from northeastern Minnesota, you have a story to tell.
Darrell Pedersen’s book is filled with episodes of his life that give the reader insights to how he became the person he is. There are the heartwarming tales of family events. There are humorous situations that centered on young Darrell that led to his nickname as “Little Dickens”. Darrell’s ancestors appear in several tales, revealing his deep respect and admiration for his past, which very well may be what inspired him to write his memoir. There are milepost stories as the author crosses into new eras of his life that range from his early school years to finding his lifelong partner Jennifer.
Each story is a chapter are of a nice, readable length. Pedersen’s tone is casual and conversational, as if the reader were sitting across the kitchen table listening to him over a cup of morning coffee.
The book spans the author’s lifetime to date – his childhood in the 1950s to into his adulthood, where the reader will meet his private life and his career as a pastor. The pacing is fine – there is no dwelling on any specific event, whether tragic of enlightening.
Everyone has a story – yes, everyone. Darrell Pedersen’s CAMPFIRE IN THE BASEMENT is a good one to bring home and enjoy.
Darrell Pedersen’s book is filled with episodes of his life that give the reader insights to how he became the person he is. There are the heartwarming tales of family events. There are humorous situations that centered on young Darrell that led to his nickname as “Little Dickens”. Darrell’s ancestors appear in several tales, revealing his deep respect and admiration for his past, which very well may be what inspired him to write his memoir. There are milepost stories as the author crosses into new eras of his life that range from his early school years to finding his lifelong partner Jennifer.
Each story is a chapter are of a nice, readable length. Pedersen’s tone is casual and conversational, as if the reader were sitting across the kitchen table listening to him over a cup of morning coffee.
The book spans the author’s lifetime to date – his childhood in the 1950s to into his adulthood, where the reader will meet his private life and his career as a pastor. The pacing is fine – there is no dwelling on any specific event, whether tragic of enlightening.
Everyone has a story – yes, everyone. Darrell Pedersen’s CAMPFIRE IN THE BASEMENT is a good one to bring home and enjoy.
April 12, 2023
I could have hardly enjoyed this book more. It was easy to say I was going to read just ONE of his stories before bed and end up reading 5 or 6 because they were so genuine. I truly enjoyed the life lessons he learned and wished to share with his readers. I felt like I was sitting in that hammock on the shores of his family's little lake home having a conversation with Darrell. The themes of family, love(not affection) but love demonstrated, hard work, perseverance and taking care of the world... everyone/everything in it are second to none in this Minnesota Memoir.
I have enjoyed sharing this book with my husband and others already, but reminded all that I NEED THIS ONE BACK. I rarely re-read a book, but have already re-read several of his stories that I can so relate to my own life. Though it is very hard to choose a favorite story; if I were to choose it would be one about his many adventures in his small, rural school. Being a teacher myself, I cannot imagine what challenges as well as joy this little Dickens Darrell must have been in school. You just have to read the story which includes signing out to use the restroom!
I have enjoyed sharing this book with my husband and others already, but reminded all that I NEED THIS ONE BACK. I rarely re-read a book, but have already re-read several of his stories that I can so relate to my own life. Though it is very hard to choose a favorite story; if I were to choose it would be one about his many adventures in his small, rural school. Being a teacher myself, I cannot imagine what challenges as well as joy this little Dickens Darrell must have been in school. You just have to read the story which includes signing out to use the restroom!
April 3, 2023
Darrell Pedersen’s "Campfire in the Basement: Reflections from a North Woods Lake" will entertain and charm you. You will laugh out loud as, nearly naked, Darrell chases squirrels from his bird feeder on a late-winter morning. Your heart will stir when you stand with Darrell on the bank of the Artichoke River as his dad reveals a romantic secret. But there’s more. A stolen agate will remind you that as an adult, you must speak up about injustice and about the need to care for creation. The arrival of winter birds will help you appreciate the changing seasons, but will also remind you that we all need to care for each other all the way through to the winters of our lives. So go ahead. Take this trip with Darrell. Just know that, having done so, you will be changed. His irresistible, self-deprecating wit will entice you to seek out grace in your own life--those unearned blessings bestowed upon you by the people you love. And you will see and feel the world around you with newly discovered and abundant gratitude.
April 23, 2024
Warmth and curiosity rise within me when I view lighted windows through falling
snow. I ponder about what life might be like for the people looking out. Stories
from behind the author’s windows warm the pages of Campfire in the Basement.
They shine light on life experiences and lessons learned as his family shared life
with other humans and plant and animal sisters and brothers. Pictures of family,
places, and belongings are treasures specific to these life stories, yet they are similar
to those treasured by any family. Whether in smoke-filled basement, frog chorus
voices, fishing expeditions on or observation of Eier Lake in all seasons of life,
Sacred footprints are omnipresent. Joy, sadness, and the importance of love, family,
and acceptance skillfully and lovingly turn the pages of Campfire in the Basement.
Submitted by Patricia A. Dickson, retired psychologist; poet
snow. I ponder about what life might be like for the people looking out. Stories
from behind the author’s windows warm the pages of Campfire in the Basement.
They shine light on life experiences and lessons learned as his family shared life
with other humans and plant and animal sisters and brothers. Pictures of family,
places, and belongings are treasures specific to these life stories, yet they are similar
to those treasured by any family. Whether in smoke-filled basement, frog chorus
voices, fishing expeditions on or observation of Eier Lake in all seasons of life,
Sacred footprints are omnipresent. Joy, sadness, and the importance of love, family,
and acceptance skillfully and lovingly turn the pages of Campfire in the Basement.
Submitted by Patricia A. Dickson, retired psychologist; poet
April 26, 2023
I am in the “sandwich generation” where I’m raising kids while also helping my aging parents who grew up in the 1950s and 1960s. Reading Pedersen’s book felt like getting a warm hug from my own father who also has many childhood stories of growing up in Minnesota. From the vivid descriptions of shopping in the old country store to his self-deprecating humor about his wife having to put up with him to his mother losing her life to Alzheimer’s Disease, Pedersen’s stories will resonate with younger and older readers alike. I appreciate being transported back into a simpler time, and that is just one of the things Pedersen’s book did for me. I’m so glad I read this book by a quality Minnesota author!
July 29, 2023
It’s a rainy day today, and finishing this memoir/collection of short stories was like a warm hug for my soul!
I don’t read much non-fiction simply because I enjoy escaping into a different world, but let me tell you, this book allowed me to do just that!
I absolutely loved this book! It’s so cozy and just a delight to read! There are many hilarious, laugh out loud moments, and there are equally sad moments as well. One of my favourites stories was that of the Forest Princess.
These tales speak of perseverance, family and love. It was such a heartwarming feeling for me; I truly felt like I was invited into Pedersen’s family and became a part of his childhood stories.
I highly recommend you check out this book!
I don’t read much non-fiction simply because I enjoy escaping into a different world, but let me tell you, this book allowed me to do just that!
I absolutely loved this book! It’s so cozy and just a delight to read! There are many hilarious, laugh out loud moments, and there are equally sad moments as well. One of my favourites stories was that of the Forest Princess.
These tales speak of perseverance, family and love. It was such a heartwarming feeling for me; I truly felt like I was invited into Pedersen’s family and became a part of his childhood stories.
I highly recommend you check out this book!
June 14, 2023
This was a warm and loving tribute to Mr. Pedersen’s loved ones, and it had me from the very first sentence. He single handedly proves that family memories can make for and amazing book. Written with lots of love and compassion, small moments of time where you felt like you were most certainly there. A great read for any Midwestern reader that will make you feel like you’re right back in your childhood.
These stories will make you laugh, make you hurt and make you recall forgotten times. Written beautifully and articulately. Highly recommend to anyone who loves memoirs or just a good old fashioned compilation of family memories.
These stories will make you laugh, make you hurt and make you recall forgotten times. Written beautifully and articulately. Highly recommend to anyone who loves memoirs or just a good old fashioned compilation of family memories.
July 7, 2023
If you were a kid in the 50s or 60s, you’ll identify with many of the stories shared in this book. I did. This is especially true if you lived in northern Minnesota where hot humid nights meant leaving doors and windows open and fighting off mosquitoes. Young boys can get into all kinds of mischief when their curiosity isn’t distracted by digital screens.
This is a great, relaxing read that will put a nostalgic smile on your face.
This is a great, relaxing read that will put a nostalgic smile on your face.
January 23, 2024
It’s all about family! Campfire in the Basement takes you on an incredible journey through the life of the Pedersen family. The narrative follows the author, Darrell, from his rural northern Minnesota childhood to the life of becoming a pastor. The book touches all the bases: love, family, good times, tough times and real life experiences. I could identify with every aspect of this well written book, so it’s no surprise I read it in one day!
May 7, 2024
I read Campfire in the Basement soon after it was released. It was a quick and enjoyable read.
I am an avid reader, and a fussy one. If it isn't there after 15 pages, I put it aside.
This didn't happen with Darrell's book. The author is able to create scenes in the story with well written descriptive writing.
I shared his book with others, and recommend it as a feel-good, funny, relaxing stor.y
Dee Hoffman
I am an avid reader, and a fussy one. If it isn't there after 15 pages, I put it aside.
This didn't happen with Darrell's book. The author is able to create scenes in the story with well written descriptive writing.
I shared his book with others, and recommend it as a feel-good, funny, relaxing stor.y
Dee Hoffman
May 11, 2024
I’ve just read this book for the second time and found more details and “lessons” that I missed at first. Having grown up in this same area of northern MN I’m astonished now of how much I didn’t know about the people and the community. If you are familiar with north central St Louis County, MN you will probably recognize people and places mentioned in these stories! It’s a wonderful place to visit again! This book will add to your reminiscence.
March 15, 2023
Darrell Pederson brings his life story to all. What could go wrong from a campfire in the basement. Kids will be kids. Darrell’s upbringing is a story many can relate to growing up in the 50’s and 60’s with extended family gatherings and card parties. It was a simple life without all the technology of today. Clear your mind and let the pages take you back to the good old days!
May 5, 2024
Darrell Peterson's debut novel is a delightful trip down memory lane, bringing back memories of growing up in Northern Minnesota in the 50's and 60's. Money was scarce, everyone worked hard, and love ran deep (though nobody talked about it) in the tightly knit Scandinavian families of the Northwoods. Darrell's writing will warm your heart and make you smile.
April 9, 2025
A very cute and often wise series of vignettes about life in Northern Minnesota. There's some fun cultural history, beautiful descriptions, and a very rich setting all on display here, sure to touch anyone who loves this state or has a place out there in the dark somewhere that they miss.
December 1, 2023
This lovely book will bring you back to your own memories. Darrell is a wonderful storyteller and writer! A Northwoods Memoir Full Of Captivating Stories
January 22, 2024
Knowing Darrell personally made his book so much more special. It is such a great read! Funny, heartwarming, everything you want in one book. Hoping he continues to write more of his stories.
July 31, 2023
This was a very enjoyable book, and it's proof that family memories make an amazing story. Campfire in the Basement is a beautiful and loving tribute to Mr. Pedersen's family. It will make you laugh and smile, and it will definitely tug on your heartstrings. This is one you won't want to miss.
April 20, 2024
Ahhh…such great childhood memories! This book is thoroughly entertaining with life stories of family, faith, love, fun and tribulations, with a little humor and mischief spilled throughout. Darrell’s life reflections are told with a warm style that is easy to read and enjoy. It caused me to conjure up my own childhood memories, which reminded me of a simpler life in the 50’s and 60’s. If you enjoy reading and reflecting on warm, loving stories of a young life in northern Minnesota, you can take that kind of journey in this book.
January 15, 2025
Such a great book of memories! Every time I read a new chapter, I thought of my dad's stories from when he was growing up. I'm passing my copy along to him-I know he will love it!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews