This exciting historical novel begins the saga of three generations of a Chumash Native American family as they face waves of colonial invasion. Book One tells the story of a twelve-year-old Chumash boy and his family who become captives in a California Spanish mission more than 200 years ago. This is historical fiction based entirely on historical fact that reveals the devastating impact colonization had on California Native peoples. Written originally for fourth, fifth and sixth graders, the story ends on a hopeful note as a small group of Native children are able to escape their captors and begin a journey to join other Native escapees in a remote mountain village. The book has been reviewed and approved by the Director of the Santa Ynez Chumash Culture Department and Chumash Elders Committee. It has the endorsement of dozens of parents, educators and readers. Beyond its educational value, it is a compelling story that portrays the struggles and triumphs of Indigenous peoples in a way that's meaningful to readers/listeners of all ages.
