News of the World

Author:
Paulette Jiles
Illustrator:
Published by:
WmMorrowPB
Suitable for ages:
15
to
100
ISBN:
978-0062409218
Reviewer:
Reviewer:
Fotini Hamplová

I would go as far as to call this book original. It has a uniqueness about it that is refreshing. In a sense this book has it all, and at the same time it feels 'simply written'.

The theme of the book is fascinating. The story deals with an aspect of North American history: the fact that Kiowa Indians (as well as other tribes) would kidnap children fro the settlers and raise them as their own. Many of these children were eventually returned to the communities of their birth, some after months and others after years with Indian tribes. Inspired by true stories the book looks at the many difficulties that these children had in adjusting to 'white civilisation' after their return.

Alongside an extremely interesting historical topic, the book contains some well-written impressive characters. There are characters to love and admire, there are characters to learn from, and their are some 'real baddies' that give the books its element of adventure. The heroes are real heroes, the relationships between people are admirable.

The tale contains a beautiful portrait of courage and compassion. It has a good balance between adventure, character building, world building and philosphy. Some of the conversations had in the book are full of insight and kindness. A very thoughtful book.

This is an excellent book.

If you would like to buy this book and support this site at the same time, you can buy it here.

Similar books you may like

A Gathering of Days: A New England Girl’s Journal, 1830-32
Jakob Flint: From Fool to King (3rd Edition)
Little House on the Prairie
These Happy Golden Years
Little House in the Big Woods