Overview
Based on a true story of the abduction of Hopi children by Spanish soldiers in the mid-nineteenth century, TRUTH IS A BRIGHT STAR tells the story of the friendship that develops between 11-year-old Loma and the fur trapper who becomes his master. During a harsh New Mexican winter, Loma sets his faith in the Hopi Way against the beliefs and values of a vastly different and powerful culture.
-20,000 copies in print.
-New foreword by the author, updated glossary, and revised bibliography.
-New original cover art by illustrator Enrique Moreiro.
Understanding and finally friendship develop between a twelve-year-old Hopi Indian boy and the fur trapper who bought him from Spanish soldiers in 1832.
Synopsis
Based on a true story of the abduction of Hopi children by Spanish soldiers in the mid-nineteenth century, TRUTH IS A BRIGHT STAR tells the story of the friendship that develops between 11-year-old Loma and the fur trapper who becomes his master. During a harsh New Mexican winter, Loma sets his faith in the Hopi Way against the beliefs and values of a vastly different and powerful culture.• 20,000 copies in print.• New foreword by the author, updated glossary, and revised bibliography.• New original cover art by illustrator Enrique Moreiro.
Children's Literature
"Shortly after sunrise Loma was awakened by a shrill blast from a horn. It startled him to his feet." Spaniards, who had been camping below his village, were now in the village snatching up children, killing and scalping any family that got in their way. Loma would find himself being snatched as well, starting him on his nightmare of slavery. Joan Price has written a touching story depicting a true tragedy. The theft of Native American children for slaves by Spanish soldiers during the 1800s is a rarely covered period of American history. Ms. Price's intimate knowledge of Hopi life and tradition comes through in this emotional story about a young Hopi boy. Using detail, the author carefully develops her characters, providing the reader great insight into their personalities. In turn, this provides insight into frontier life and the life Loma will lead. Most touching is the author's emphasis on the deep-seated honor and beliefs that Loma clings to during his harrowing ordeal. Sadly, while Loma's story has a happy ending, Ms. Price points out that although the Spanish frowned on the slavery of the Hopi, enslaving the Navajo people was sanctioned. This book is recommended for any historical fiction collection, whether it is for a classroom or library. 2002 (orig. 1982), Tricycle Press, $7.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: John D. Orsborn