Publisher's Synopsis
In the Valley of the Smoking River: Coming of Age A synopsis Welcome first time readers and returning readers, Welcome back! "In the Valley of the Smoking River: Coming of Age," is the second book of the "In the Valley..." series. Key tribal members from book one continue their spiritual and life's journeys, while new members join the story, adding color and depth to the total experience. Come join us in the valley of the smoking river and walk with the ancient ones. Become part of the ancient culture. Come experience times of hunger, times of feast, times of danger, times of joy, times of spiritual growth, times of war, times of peace..., with an unnamed American Indian tribe, circa 1700 AD. Walk with Little One (born with no legs) and Standing Elk (his brother) as their commitment to each other, their spiritual bond, and their spiritual guides lead them on their shared and singular paths of life. Endure with the tribal runners as they face dangers from nature and the Pawtanay (a rival tribe) as they carry messages from the Principal Chief to outlying tribal bands. Hear the story of how Strong Bear, as a young boy, escapes his captors and makes his way back to his home village, bringing with him a small child that changes his life forever. In ..".Coming of Age," see: Young braves transition to/toward their adult roles Older warriors assume leadership positions passed down by their elders Young families and new tribal bands form A young boy fight for survival, including confrontations with wild elements, both human and animal A young warrior fight all comers for the right to marry his special love A place where respect for their elders, their land, their community is a way of life Continue on with Little One, Standing Elk, Sweet Water, Strong Bear, Summers Gift and others from book one; meet new arrivals from book two such as Running Thunder, Gray Dog, Dream Walker and others. Share with them as the circle of life continues, as the people move into and out of the valley of the smoking river. Enjoy this experience and share it with others and, together, meet the ancient ones and know that..".this is as it should be."
