Children of the Longhouse

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Renaissance
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Children of the Longhouse
Author: Bruchac, Joseph
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Time Period: Renaissance
Time Frame: 1491
Geographic Area: North America
Country: United States
Topics: Early America, Indigenous Americans
Genre: Fiction, Own Voices
Reading Age: Middle Grade
Format: Chapter Book
Published: 1996


American History > Renaissance > Indigenous American History

When Ohkwa'ri overhears a group of older boys planning a raid on a neighboring village, he immediately tells his Mohawk elders. He has done the right thing—but he has also made enemies. Grabber and his friends will do anything they can to hurt him, especially during the village-wide game of Tekwaarathon (lacrosse). Ohkwa'ri believes in the path of peace, but can peaceful ways work against Grabber's wrath?

"An exciting story that also offers an in-depth look at Native American life centuries ago." —Kirkus Reviews

Emily's Review

I always enjoy Joseph Bruchac's stories and this one is no exception. I've read it a few times over the years, both to write lesson plans and as a read aloud with my kids. I love when a story can transport you to another place and time. The pacing is a bit slow, but it gives a fascinating look at Native American culture before the European settlers came to America.

The real depth of this story comes in the character development - Ohkwa'ri and his sister, Otsi:sia are the main protagonists and they both get to have some great growth over the course of the story. We also get to learn a lot about the significance of the game of Tekaarathon to the Iroquois people.

Despite the slow pace, I think this book is definitely worth reading and adding to your American history studies!

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