Review by VMCMILLEN88 -- Strong Heart by Charlie Sheldon

[VictoriaMcMillen]

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

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4 out of 4 stars

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I am rating this epic book, Strong Heart 4 out of 4 stars. I found the storyline to be seamless, stimulating and educating. The maps in the beginning help orient the reader and help for future reference. The vivid descriptions have you feeling you are right there with them, almost if you have now visited. Once I got into the first chapter, I honestly read this book as eagerly as I did The Twilight Saga.

The author, Charlie Sheldon, brought us an intense, descriptive and educational piece of literature through his impressive education and extensive research into the subject matter. The author’s knowledge of sea voyage came through in this novel as the descriptions in the text were very realistic; it was as if you were ready to row or bail water yourself to keep them alive. The book, Strong Heart, is a work of fiction that is set in modern day Washington State, respectfully portraying cross-cultural conversations and understandings addressing important issues we face today. The story offers deep history of the local tribal legends and scientific theories while taking the diverse set of characters through a life-changing adventure into the rugged wilderness; led by a young girl only thirteen years old.

Grandfather, Tom Olsen, is preparing for a trip to a place he had been long ago for an important, heartfelt mission. He and his long-time friend are planning the trip together but they are growing old. Tom’s friend, an American Indian nicknamed “Walleye”, asks his daughter to come along for the mission to help them. On the eve of the mission, Tom’s estranged granddaughter is suddenly left in his custody without another word. She is thirteen and very uninterested in the trip or her grandfather. Old Indian wisdom inspires forward movement for the adventure and the revelations crescendo from there. The further they get into the wilderness the more they begin to learn about each other, the land, and themselves. Many challenges and much humility and understandings lie in store for them around every corner as they are unexpectedly taken on an adventure to the past and an adventure in the present they will never forget. From Native storytelling to scientific arguments, the story is filled with intriguing information that raises even more questions in your mind. Strong Heart can help readers see multiple perspectives engaging on some topics we do not always fully understand.

I was amazed at the amount of perspectives shared on issues that are relevant to our time. Throughout the book the characters argued significant points about the Bering Strait Theory versus Traditional Indian Legends, mining versus cultural significance to the land, as well as historical geological and environmental changes over time. They discussed these intelligently, with respect and candor. Their cultural differences and values came out in these discussions and can make for great possibilities for better understandings going forward, of the struggles we face as co-inhabitants in this country. The American Indian perspective seemed to be told with respect, dignity and truth; something that is not always readily available to the general public. Although the author may not be Native American, it seems he was able to find the connections and humility imperative to receive the understandings he needed to write this book. The only perspective I felt that was left out was that of the surveyors and miners, although for this author or this story, maybe it wasn’t time to tell. This is the first book in a series, maybe we will find out more of their perspective in the next books.

As an American Indian Educator and parent, I believe Strong Heart would make a great addition to middle and high school libraries and English classrooms. I believe the story told can help enlighten youth and educators to different perspectives and learn about the threats to American Indian sovereignty and treaty rights today, along with the other adversities they face on a daily basis. The amount of research that went into this book depicts a real place with real history and an adventure that just may also spark young readers’ interests in many academic areas. The book has a light way of dealing with really tough issues while keeping the suspense and adventure rolling to keep all readers and listeners engaged; you will be amazed. Strong Heart is an action-filled, spirited, and educational read that is a much needed addition to any library or home.

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Strong Heart
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[kdstrack]

Great review. I agree that the maps and excellent descriptions help readers to orient themselves to the setting of the book. The author did a wonderful job of investigating the area and the culture which he incorporated in the book. He told a compelling story. Thanks for your interesting and thoughtful comments.

[SPasciuti]

This book honestly sounds fantastic from the way you've described it. I haven't really had the chance to read many books discussing Native American culture and I find that this one sounds quite intriguing. Thanks for writing a review!