I have not read any books by Louise Erdrich before. After reading The Porcupine Year, I think I will look for her other two books! This sequel is the third in the Birchbark House books, and even though I haven’t read the others in this series, I found it quite an enjoyable read.
The Details of The Porcupine Year
Published by Harper Collins Publishers, this 224-page book that came in as a review book, but I haven’t a clue for who anymore. My guess is an email got deleted that shouldn’t have! Anyways, it’s the sequel the Birchbark House and The Game of Silence.
These books tell the story of Omakayas and her family. They are an Objibwe family who lived in Minnesota and were forced by the USA government to find a new home. This illustrated edition, explains some of the hardships caused by this relocation for this Native American family. It also gives us a glimpse into American life in the 1800’s.
From the Cover:
Omakayas was a dreamer who did not yet know her limits.
When Omakayas is twelve winters old, she and her family set off on a harrowing journey in search of a new home. Pushed to the brink of survival, Omakayas continues to learn from the land and the spirits around her, and she discovers that no matter where she is, or how she is living, she has the one thing she needs to carry her through.
Pencil drawings are scattered throughout the pages, helping us see some of the silliness. It also for me, helped me to truly picture, Omakayas and her family.
16 chapters round out the pages, you’ll find author’s notes on the Objiwe language as well. You’ll even learn how to pronounce Objiwe. Very well done book that helps youth in grades 3-7 learn more about US History.
One of the things I love about this story is that it’s easy for youth to read, and yet it would also make a great read out loud story. The chapters are a nice length, with good pictures throughout, and flows nicely from one chapter to the next.
Should you Get it?
YES! It’s a thoroughly good read. Tells a good story with a touch of conflict. There’s sorrow as well as joy. There’s life and hope. The Porcupine Year is a sweet story that teaches history as you read. Well-worth reading.
Tenderly told, with so much hope for the future despite the troubles they went through. A good introduction to Native American history from a native’s perspective.
I’ll have to check and see if the library has this. Might go well with a history coming up in a few months.
you should get the whole series. 🙂