Here is a book filled with the sights and sounds of a people steeped in a background of fine old traditions. It is a charming account of Swedish customs that goes beyond their democratic monarchy, their progressive social-welfare programs, their avant-garde movies, and their excellence of design.

For Swedish-Americans this book will have special meaning: the joy of reminiscing about those traditions (some possibly forgotten) that enriched and helped shape their lives. For their children it is a journey to a world they may not know of first hand. And for the tourist it affords a...