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Kirsten Learns a Lesson: A School StoryJanet Beeler Shaw

Children's fiction

Kirsten Learns a Lesson: A School Story

by Janet Beeler Shaw

Book 2 of the American Girls: Kirsten series

69 pages · First published 1986

Kirsten Larson is a Swedish immigrant girl adjusting to life on the Minnesota frontier in 1854, where school introduces challenges beyond learning English. Her family’s practical needs compete with education, and Kirsten must navigate unfamiliar customs while trying to preserve connections to her Swedish heritage. Friendship and classroom experiences gradually help her understand what belonging in her new country might mean. Janet Beeler Shaw’s American Girl story uses a child’s school life to explore immigration, language, education, and the tension between adapting to America and remembering where one came from.

Paired for this story

Bush Tea with Honey + Rhenian Honey Ale

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At a glance

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Suspense1 of 5
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No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Anti-Indigenous racism and derogatory language; references to oppression of Native people; corporal punishment references; grief; school and cultural-adjustment difficulties.

Alcohol-Free Pour

Bush Tea with Honey

A fragrant cup of tea suits rugged adventures and wide-open settings.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Steep the tea and any herbs or whole spices in hot water according to the tea type, then strain. Stir in sweetener and juices. Serve hot.
  2. Garnish: Citrus peel, herb, or fruit from the recipe, if applicable.
  3. Glassware: Mug.
21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Rhenian Honey Ale

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

A mellow, malty pour suits rugged adventures and wide-open settings.

What you'll need

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Alcohol-shopping links are not shown on children's or young-adult book pages.

How to mix it

  1. Pour the ale into a pint glass, stir in honey syrup gently, and express the lemon peel over the top.
  2. Garnish: Lemon peel.
  3. Glassware: Pint glass.

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