Rick Revelle, I am Algonquin

I Am Algonquin written by Rick Revelle and published by Dundurn Press is the first in a series of four novels. The books take place during the 1300’s pre-contact. The author uses the Native languages in the vernacular. The books are I Am Algonquin (2013), Algonquin Spring (2015) and Algonquin Sunset (2017).

Description

Wàgosh let out a warming and Kàg turned just in time to see two large wolves running toward him. He had no time to string his bow, so he grabbed his lance from the snow. At that instance another lance flew through the air and embedded itself in the lead wolf’s neck. Without a sound the animal dropped. The ever-wary Mònz had struck again. Kàg dropped to one knee as the other wolf sprung toward him. His lance caught the attacker full in the chest. — from chapter four

This book paints a vivid picture of the original peoples of North America before the arrival of Europeans. The novel follows the story of Mahingan and his family as they live the traditional Algonquin way of life in what is now Ontario in the early 14th century. Along the way we learn about the search for moose and the dramatic rare woodland buffalo hunt, conflicts with other Native nations, and the dangers of wolves and wolverines. We also witness the violent game of lacrosse, the terror of a forest fire, and the rituals that allow Algonquin boys to be declared full-grown men.

But warfare is also part of their lives, and signs point to a defining conflict between Mahingan’s nation, its allies the Omàmiwinini (Algonquin), Ouendat (Huron), and the Nippissing against the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois). The battle’s aftermath may open the door to future journeys by Mahingan and his followers.

About the Author

Rick Revelle was born in Smith Falls, Ontario, and raised in the Odessa and Wilton areas. He is part of the Loyalist Township Sports Hall of Fame for softball and holds a black belt in Judo. He is a member of the Ardoch Algonquin First Nation and lives in Glenburnie, Ontario.

The books can be purchased separately or in a group, at any book store in North America or online though Amazon or the Dundurn Press.

The languages used in the books are as follows: I Am Algonquin– Algonquin; Algonquin Spring – Algonquin, Mi´kmaq and Mohawk; and Algonquin Sunset – Algonquin, Anishinaabe, Huron, Lakota, Mi´kmaq, and Mohawk.

Each novel contains a glossary. The stories are about how an Algonquin family unit survives through the course of 18 years of trying to live in the harsh climate of seeking food and battling their enemies.