THE GAME OF SILENCE (genre 5 book 1)

In this Scott O'Dell Award winning book nine year old Omakayas comes of age as the world is changing for her tribe. Set in 1847 Erdrich uses native language to transport the reader to another time and place. However, the book is written in a clear and clean manner allowing for easy reading. Young readers can also easily relate to a child's day of playing, fishing, and being told what to do by adults.

Pencil illustrations by author Louise Erdrich help to bring the story to life. They also help introduce the elements of nature, culture, and crafts of Ojibwe tribe. These rich details provide insight into the time period and the history in which this novel is set. The author's notes and glossary are included on the Ojibwe Language along with a pronunciation guide. This is the second book in the trilogy by Erdrich and based on her research of her own heritage. This series will be much read and loved.


Review excerpts:
"In this heartrending novel the sense of what was lost is overwhelming." -Booklist

"Erdrich's captivating tale of four seasons portrays a deep appreciation of our environment, our history, and our Native American sisters and brothers." -School Library Journal


Connections:
*The seasons are a strong theme throughout this book. A variety of discussions can ensue from this such as the traditions of the culture described by the book or the seasonal traditions of our own cultures. It can also be discussed how the seasons can be a metaphor for the phases of life; birth, growth, and death.

*Book two in the trilogy, readers can be encouraged to go back and read The Birch House and then follow up by reading The Porcupine Year by Erdrich.


Erdrich, Louise. 2006. The Game of Silence. New York: Harper Collins. ISBN 9780064410298