Assessment:

Plot: This is an intriguing work set in the late nineteenth century, and the author does an excellent job not only depicting the period but detailing the struggle of a Native American boy who is caught between the white man's world he lives in and his cultural history. His struggle is palpable, but the author sacrifices action for inner turmoil. The storyline would benefit from more action to balance the elements out.

Prose/Style: The author is a capable writer who is able to convey the inner angst of Prairie Cub. Some events, however, seem implausible or unlikely, and the book would benefit from a developmental edit to clear up such scenes.

Originality: This is a clever, highly original work that revisits a lost era. Young readers will learn much about the past while reading about Prairie Cub’s life and experiences.

Character Development/Execution: The author does an excellent job depicting Prairie Cub and the challenges he faces. His "torn between two worlds" life is vividly detailed, and the reader cannot help but root for this character.

Date Submitted: June 07, 2021