Power

Power by Linda Hogan

Although this is not one of my favorite books I have read so far, it is still well written.  It is heavily saturated in description, so there is not much dialogue.  It is the story of Omishto and Ama and their experience killing an endangered species, a panther.  Trapped between the modern and traditional worlds, Ama and Omisto is on trial for killing a panther.

What I do like about the novel is that it emphasizes the importance of nature.  Most of the description is centered around things Omishto finds in nature, how the wind is a living breath, or how the plants wait for the redemption of rain.  Obviously, the importance of the panther is also help tell the story of a healthy and balanced nature.

I would recommend this book to tenth grade and up.  The novel is a little bit longer and its descriptions might be a little bit much for ninth graders and younger.  I also recommend it to anyone who likes Native American novels, especially ones centered around the modernization and disappearance of traditions.