Totem

June 1, 2014

Gr 7 Up-Redemption Residential School is known for its harshness, and Jonny and Ernie, the only boys who remain there over the summer break, escape the destructive environment of the camp and find refuge in a cave. They wake up in an alternate time and meet an elderly Native American named Kalaku, a protector who has appeared to Jonny for years. The boys grow and mature during the time they spend with Kalaku and the Haida people. The alternate world of the Haida community is abundantly portrayed. The author includes end notes about the Haida people and totem poles as well as a Chinook glossary. Unfortunately, the author does not provide any information about whether or not white people did, in fact, attend Haida ceremonies, as is portrayed in the book. One of the priests at the school is a sexual predator, and while most of his abuse is alluded to, there are a few disturbing scenes. Maruno tells a well-realized story, complete with brave young men and villains, which would have been enhanced with more detailed author notes.-Hilary Writt, Sullivan University, Lexington, KY

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