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[Following is a volunteer review of "Strong Heart" by Charlie Sheldon.]

Strong Heart consists of mysticism, history, science, and a great deal of adventure. Written by Charlie Sheldon, this book is one helluva adventure narrated by vivid imagery and excellent storytelling. The novel shifts between the present and the “perhaps true” imagination of a 13 years old girl, who is the blood of the Ethnic American lineage. Sarah, and her dream, or perhaps vision, help the story evolve. As Tom prepares to embark upon a journey to visit his grandfather’s grave, deep inside the wilderness of the Olympic National Park, his friends, William and Myra (daughter to William) join him in his venture. The stormy weather outside his house as he prepares for the journey foretells the storm approaching his life. Dropped off at his doorstep is an insolent Sarah, who has no place to call home. As unfortunate as it seems, Sarah turns out to be Tom’s granddaughter who did not exist until now. Caught in the situation, Tom unwillingly takes Sarah on this journey.
Unwittingly, Sarah displays fine skills in drawing and brings in a new angle to the entire journey. She visualizes ancestral past and weaves the same into the present. This unfolds mystery, confusion, debates, and a tension in the group. Frustrated with her grandfather’s mockery of her visions, Sarah takes off with a very important artefact and eventually goes missing.

Strong Heart blends magic and science, explores blood relations, and creates a consistent and powerful plot. Sarah’s voice is the most dominant in this story. As she recounts unusual events related to her disappearance, she, or the author for that matter, masterfully weaves it around the lost artefact and her role in its existence. This makes her character the most believable and interesting one. Her captivating story takes us back to the ages of stones, extinct beasts, and the wild nature of humans. Her journey is a separate one. It is completely different from the one Tom embarked upon. As a reader, I felt the mystic journey more compelling and interesting than the real one. The characters of Thin Hair, Fat Hair, Pretty Face, Bright Eyes, Thrower, etc., create a very strong impact.

Throughout the journey, the author confused me in terms of character portrayal and development. Although Tom, William, and Myra are described as friends, the characters seem to have very little camaraderie and knowledge about each other. Although later, I realized why.

The characters of Tom, William, Myra, and later Sergei do not have much of a backstory but they do evolve eventually through the book. Myra and Sergei are thrown against each other, as would a debate between history and science. The fight between the two picks my interest, and I read on. As the story progresses, these characters add to the spiritual tone of the novel. I realize now that I empathized with the characters, and they evolved in my mind, perhaps that was the intent of the writer and a truly impressive one.

I was completely engrossed in the story as long as I read it. I could relate to the story more as I had been reading about native burials, sacred bones, and the NAGPRA Legislation. It ensured that I chew on and explore each flavour that the story offers. I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. If you have the love for and believe in mysticism and native legends, this book will surely blow your mind.

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Strong Heart
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Like Kinkini's review? Post a comment saying so!

I like such stories,honestly.

Sounds very interesting. Nicely written review.

Thanks a lot for your responses. Do read the book.

This sounds like such an interesting book! I enjoyed reading all of your detailed descriptions. I think American Indian culture is so intriguing to learn about and I like how the plot is ambiguous as to whether or not it’s real or imagined.

Momiji1987 wrote: ↑05 Mar 2018, 18:18 This sounds like such an interesting book! I enjoyed reading all of your detailed descriptions. I think American Indian culture is so intriguing to learn about and I like how the plot is ambiguous as to whether or not it’s real or imagined.

Yes absolutely. The past is always so alluring. I think the author could have worked more on the character of Myra. She is also a pure blood. It is quite disappointing that she believes that Sarah had seen the bear but refutes the story of her experience.

Thank you for the thoughtful review. I had the same problem with the other characters and also felt like they could have been better developed. The basics of character were there, but they could have been a little more well rounded.

I really liked the "ancient" portion of this book. I was really confused the first time it switched to this story, but you are able to figure out what is going on quickly. I agree, there is vivid imagery of the mountains and parks in this book. I may read the next book to learn more about the "ancient" story. Thanks for the review!