The Home Wind: A Novel (U.P. Stories Book 4)

The Home Wind is a middle-grade children's novel (ages 9 and up), which takes place during the 1870s in a Michigan logging camp. Quality paperback, 198 pages plus discussion guide.Jamie Kangas struggles with turbulent emotions caused by the death of his father, who perished in a logging accident--an accident for which Jamie blames himself. While his mother works as cook in a logging camp, Jamie is run ragged as chore boy. The grinding dreariness fades when Jamie meets a Native American boy, Gray Feather, who carries a burden of his own. The two boys become close friends as they face the challenges of a harsh environment and prejudiced world. And as trees fall to the lumberjack's blade, Jamie hears the ghostly words of his father, warning of future catastrophe.“The Home Wind is an engaging story of two boys who must find their way through the difficulties of life on the road to becoming “men.” It is set during the 1870s in the Fox River logging camp near Seney in Upper Michigan. Jamie Kangas struggles with the guilt of feeling responsible for his father’s death. He discovers a Native American boy, Gray Feather, hiding in the camp stables, nearly frozen and starved, who carries burdens of his own. Soon the two become close friends.The author weaves the backstory of both boys through action and dialogue, with impeccably researched details. Her descriptions of the scenes and action make a reader feel as if they are right there in the middle of it all. Readers can’t miss the symbolism found throughout the book and a wonderful way to learn about the past at the same time. This book should go far, and not just with young audiences. A great discussion guide can be found at the end of the book for classroom, homeschool, or adult book club use." -- Deborah K. Frontiera, U.P. Book Review"The Home Wind is a U.P. Notable Book Award Winner. As a former teacher, I recommend this as an 'all boy' book for reluctant readers. Two boys met and became friends in the 1870s at a logging camp. The hardships of the boys are true because of the author's well-researched history of the time. It is a page-turner that I could not put down. A discussion guide at the end of the book is a plus for teachers and book clubs." -- Carolyn Wilhelm, MA, Midwest Book Review Read more