Set in the mid-nineteenth century, this offers a fictionalized, accessibly written account of Seneca Indian Ely Parker's youth and education. The story opens with Ely attending a mission boarding school, learning the white people's language and culture, which his parents hope Ely will someday use to help efforts preserving tribal lands. However, they also believe Ely must further understand his Seneca heritage, and they send him to live with Canadian relatives to deepen his knowledge of traditional ways and beliefs. Returning to New York, Ely continues school, and he begins working as a tribal advocate, committed to creating better opportunities d futures r himself and others. The chronological narrative, in short chapters of straightforward, simply constructed prose, explores Ely's experiences with racism; his discovery of friends, allies, and self-confidence; and his determination to positively impact both Native American and white worlds. Though the book lacks formal resources and references, and the time frame of events, including Ely's birth date, is occasionally unclear, Ely's challenges and successes are supportively portrayed, and may inspire readers to learn more about his life and times. An afterword provides some information on his later years.

Gr 5 Up-Bruchac tackles the struggles of growing up Native surrounded by people trying to deceive you. This series entry introduces readers to the early life of Hasanoanda, better known as Ely Parker. Four months before his birth, his mother dreamed that he would become an important liaison between the Native World and the White Man's World that was all too quickly encroaching on their Seneca way of life. This hi-lo book presents readers with a look at the struggles of a successful Indian man. Ely Parker's education proved to be a great asset for his people and he truly was able to walk both worlds. Bruchac tells the story from a Native perspective with accuracy and likable characters. The readability of this fictionalized account allows young teens to learn about the formative years of this influential historical figure and see how he came to be a significant Native leader. An afterword highlights the career and achievements of the young man's adult years. VERDICT Another great addition to the "Pathfinders" series, and a recommended title for all libraries. Amy Zembroski, Indian Community School, Franklin, WI

Ely Parker became a negotiator and respected emissary of his Seneca tribe in adulthood. The story of his early life and education begins in the dream his mother had before he was born. The Indian agent John Granger was standing next to her during a snowstorm when suddenly the heavens opened and a rainbow appeared. The Dream Speaker predicted that her son Hasanoanda would become a great peacemaker with the ability to straddle the two worlds of the Seneca and the white man. Hasanoanda becomes Ely at the local Tonawanda Baptist School in upstate New York. He leaves to spend two years guided by his aunt and uncle in the Canadian wilderness, where he learns native ways. Receiving a scholarship to the prestigious Yates Academy, Ely continues on his journey as the young man whose intelligence, studiousness, and willingness to compromise guide his futureall the while being reminded that he is still an Indian without the rights of a citizen.Bruchac is a dedicated, authentic voice for the native experience, as his numerous publications, including historical fiction for teens, attest. His Abenaki ancestry lends reliable insight into Ely's experiences and judgments as he carefully moves from young lad to fulfilling the destiny of that long-ago dream.Judith A. Hayn.