| Author/Contributor(s): | O'Dell, Scott |
| Publisher: | Clarion Books |
| Date: | 9/13/2010 |
| Binding: | Paperback |
| Condition: | NEW |
Newbery Honor Book
In this powerful novel based on historical events, the Navajo tribe's forced march from their homeland to Fort Sumner is dramatically and courageously narrated by young Bright Morning.
The opening chapters depict Bright Morning pasturing her family's sheep beneath the high cliffs of Canyon de Chelly, weaving wool, and preparing for the tribal Kin-nadl-dah ceremony. Canyon de Chelly provides the tranquil setting until soldiers invade the valley, burn the hogans, and destroy the peach orchards.
O'Dell portrays the grueling winter trek across frozen plains as hunger, bitter winds, and illness test the captives on their march to Bosque Redondo. The narrative captures both the sorrow of an uprooted people and the quiet resilience of a young woman determined to protect her heritage.
Like the author's Newbery Medal-winning classic Island of the Blue Dolphins, Scott O'Dell's Sing Down the Moon is a gripping tale of survival, strength, and courage.
- Native American History: Before the soldiers strike, Bright Morning and her friend Running Bird endure capture by Spanish slavers and orchestrate a nighttime escape through the mountains.
- Coming of Age: Bright Morning stands by the warrior Tall Boy after an ambush leaves his arm crippled, finding purpose as their traditional ways of life are upended.
- Survival Stories: In the squalor of Bosque Redondo, Bright Morning secretly hoards rations and hides blankets, refusing to let cold, hunger, or despair defeat her spirit.
- Unlikely Hero: Guiding her wounded husband toward the hidden sanctuary of Elk-Running Valley, a determined young shepherd risks everything to reclaim a future for her family.
- Also by This Author: Zia, Thunder Rolling in the Mountains and The Black Pearl.