Brief Description: The first book in a series, this novel introduces 7 yo Native American Ojibwe girl Omakayas, who enjoys a loving family life until white settlers desire their land.
Geographical Setting: Great Lakes, La Pointe, Lake Superior, Madeline Island, North America, United States, Wisconsin
Historical Era: 19th Century
Date Range: 1847-1848
Keywords: American Westward Expansion, mission school, Native American, Native American Ojibwe Chippewa, orphan, pet crow, smallpox epidemic, Treaty Talk
Original Publication: 1999
Suitable for Grades: 3-8th
Target Audience: Chapter Book, Middle Grade
Librarian's Review
Omakayas, a seven year old Ojibwe (Chippewa) girl, has a pet crow and lives with her extended family on Madeline Island. This first novel in the series takes place over the course of one year and, in addition to illustrating daily life from Omakayas’ perspective, shows the devastating effects of the smallpox epidemic of 1847 on the Ojibwe. The novel also references the land cession treaties signed with the U.S. in which the Ojibwe believed they were ceding only some mineral rights but would be allowed to stay on their land.