Michael Dorris (1945–1997)

Here's what I wrote in 2008 about this read: "There are many ways for a youth to be troubled, almost to the point of losing their way home, and many reasons to be troubled. But the bonds of woman and blood are strong. A tale of one such youth, with her mix of Native American and African American blood." Honesty, though, at this point I have no memory of reading this book.

This story is about a Native American boy who has a sight impairment and it is harder for him to earn his adult name than other boys. He has to learn to rely on other senses since he can't see. Walnut goes on a dangerous journey which helps him earn his name. Walnut gradually learns confidence in himself through his journey in finding his name. He also learned the respect of his tribe by going on a dangerous adventure. This book is exciting and will keep you reading to the end!!

fair - Katrina

This was the book I read in its entirety on a greyhound bus from Los Angeles to Santa Cruz as a senior in high school. The book has stayed with me for over a decade as a beautiful weaving of stories and the long-term effects of parents decisions on their children’s trajectories and lives. I should re-read at some point as an adult and see if it is as powerful.