Boyden has woven a tapestry of images and emotions that falls head
and shoulders above any other war novel of the period, or perhaps
ever written.
Elijah and Xavier are two innocent native boys, raised the old way
after escaping residential schooling in pre-WWI northern Canada.
When the war sweeps across Europe, the two boys sign up for a
chance at adventure. Through their eyes, and that of their aunt
Niska, Boyden takes you on a journey beyond any other. Revealed is
the truth of war and loss of innocence, yet, their grassroots
Aboriginal perspective leads to deeper revelations on the nature of
life itself. Told with elegant style and incredible gripping power,
this is one novel you do not want to miss.