Review of Totem

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Gabriela Contreras Gonzalez
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Re: Review of Totem

Post by Gabriela Contreras Gonzalez »

Totem is a book about the indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest. The plot follows Sarah Cooley and her grandfather Tom-Tom, as well as Carl Larnen. The three of them are trying to discover the mystery of Bear Valley. I am not familiar with the indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest, and this book series seems like a perfect way to learn more about them.
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Post by Chi Chiu Michael Mak »

I would like to explore Bear Valley through Sarah's eyes! I might need to read the two books first before finishing Totem; I need to know the rest of the series! I am also interested to know more about how the climate change question is incorporated into the plot.
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Post by Amos Osinya »

I would like to one day get hold of "Totem" to learn about the indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest as well as follow up on the whole story to find out whether the secrets of the Bear Valley were finally revealed.
Last edited by Amos Osinya on 05 Jul 2025, 10:54, edited 1 time in total.
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Amos Osinya
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Post by Amos Osinya »

I would like to one day get hold of "Totem" to learn about the indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest as well as follow up on the whole story to find out whether the secrets of the Bear Valley were finally revealed.
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Post by Bookish_Tropes »

I'm mostly wary of non-Indigenous authors writing mainly about Indigenous experiences and knowledge. I think how you talk about certain things is easily influeced by your own perception of them, even if it comes from a place of admiration. Has anyone who's read the book been able to notice these things?
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Post by Sanju Lali »

A wonderful adventure and discovery-based story in the book "Totem" by Charlie Sheldon focuses on the secrets of Bear Valley. The nice thing is that a well-researched scientific background about mining and northwest history makes the story appear real. This book appears entertaining to me.
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Post by SophiaNd »

Charlie Sheldon's "Totem" sounds like a captivating conclusion to the Strong Heart Series, expertly blending an intriguing mystery of elk-kills and a threatened mining operation with the rich, intertwined heritage of the Pacific Northwest's indigenous peoples.
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Post by Seetha E »

The Bear Valley and its secrets sound intriguing. I'm also curious about the handling of the climate change subject. However, since this is the third book in the series, I will read it in order. Thank you for your engaging and detailed review.
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Post by Shirley Ann Riddern Labzentis »

Nice review! I was always drawn to this book, but somehow never chose it. It sounds like a very intriguing story. I will have to read it now that my interest in it has been piqued.
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Post by Rupali Mishra »

Congrats on BOTD!
The immediate and distant past merge in Bear Valley in Charlie Sheldon's "Totem" when Sarah, her family, and a group of friends discover long-forgotten mysteries that might avert a mining danger. The conclusion of the Powerful Heart trilogy is both exciting and ethnically diverse.
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Post by Spoorthy S »

I agree with your thoughts on the plot and character depth. Your review made me reflect more on those parts. Well said!
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Post by Judy Burr »

Thank you for your review. I read the sample. This is the 3rd and final book in the series. I read the series. A wonderful visit to this part of the world, with stories of ancient people, ancient animals, and a modern-day sinister plot to spoil this land.
Judy
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Post by Magdalyne chebet »

"Totem" sounds like a fascinating blend of mystery, culture, and adventure. I’m really impressed by the connection to indigenous history and the suspense around Bear Valley. I’m interested in reading it and exploring the whole series. Congrats BOTD!
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Post by Ukaegbu Confidence »

"Totem" by Charlie Sheldon is an adventure-packed read. I am eager to know what this artefact is and what it can do. Congratulations on BOTD.
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Post by Victory Ositaorah »

Totem by Charlie Sheldon is full of mystery and I would love to find out of Sarah and grandfather to hike on the Bear Valley. Congratulations on BOTD!!
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