In a harsh winter famine, two old women of the Athabascan tribe (which once roamed in Alaska, near the Arctic Circle) are abandoned by their tribe. Left to their own devices, it is assumed that they will quickly die. But the women refuse to give up . . . using skills from their youth, they roam the land for wood, food, fur, and survival. And when, the following year, the struggling tribe finds the women alive and thriving, they have a choice: should they help those who betrayed them, or turn their backs?
This story is based on Indian legend many generations old. It's good. Betrayal, survival, love, forgiveness, and courage are themes explored (though briefly- it is only 127 pages long). I can't imagine life in such harsh conditions, but it is somehow heartening to see people of every tribe and tongue and nation wrestling with the same realities in this world of good and evil.
Rating: A
No comments:
Post a Comment