 |
In 1777, William MacEwan is a young man living on the frontier of the nascent American republic. While hunting one morning, William spies what he believes is a turkey and fires his musket. However, the target is revealed to be a teenage Cherokee boy. William is horrified at his actions, believing he has killed the young man. His mother, Elspeth, briefly scolds William but tends to the wounded youth and brings him into the house. William learns the native's name is Shadow Bear. Despite their bumpy first encounter, William forms a bond with Shadow Bear. He offers to bring him back to his kin and offers a mea culpa. This act of kindness introduces him to the Cherokee but also begins William's voyage to places far beyond the backwoods of America.
Lewis' novel is a heartfelt coming-of-age drama blended with historical fiction. The early days of the American Revolution form a significant backdrop for the engaging narrative where the once immature William learns to fight for his family as the fight for his homeland heats up. The story's strength lies not solely in the development of William's character but in the portrayal of the women in his life. For example, his mother must cope with tragic reversals of fortune but remains stoic for the sake of her children. William's love interest, Little Cornstalk, is tough in her own right, brave to the point of stubbornness, and possesses the strength of a warrior. Author Lewis truly distinguishes himself with this epic novel of love, friendship, and war.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review