Peeps at Many Lands: Iceland

Peeps at Many Lands: Iceland is a delightful children's travelogue that introduces young readers to the remote North Atlantic island through personal observations, history, and vivid descriptions. Drawing on the author's multiple visits, the book begins with Iceland's dramatic discovery by Norse seafarers in the 9th century, the arrival of Viking settlers like Ingolf and Hjorleif, and its early history under Norwegian and later Danish influence. It highlights the rich literary heritage of the Icelandic sagas—epic tales of feuds, heroes, and outlaws like Njal and Grettir—and the skalds (poets) who preserved them, emphasizing how storytelling and poetry remain central to Icelandic culture.

Subsequent chapters paint a lively picture of early 20th-century Iceland, focusing on the capital Reykjavik, rural farms, traveling by pony, and the warm hospitality of the people. Leith vividly describes natural wonders such as the Great Geysir in eruption, spectacular waterfalls like Gullfoss and Skogafoss, hot springs, glaciers, and volcanoes. She also covers daily life, manners and customs, industries (like eider duck down), birds, and the hardy, self-reliant character of the Icelanders. Illustrated with charming watercolors, the book captures Iceland's stark beauty, isolation, and enduring Norse spirit in an engaging, wonder-filled style typical of the series.