Lightning Rider

Brenda Baltensperger is a playwright, a director of children’s
theatre, an editor of children’s fiction, and the author of Fractured
Fairy-tales.

January Fournier and her brother Grey are avid motorcycle enthusiasts.
Grey has a serious accident while riding a stolen vehicle, and is
suspected of being responsible for several motorcycle thefts in the
area. Jan sets out to solve the mystery and clear her brother, who
remains in the intensive care unit of a Calgary hospital.

Her task is a challenging one. Jan has to contend with a prejudiced
police sergeant who insists that all Natives are criminals and intimates
that Jan was involved in the thefts with her brother. She reiterates
that they are Métis, and not guilty. Jan discovers a hidden, stolen
motorcycle and confides in her co-worker and friend, Josh, before
contacting the police. By the time Constable David McKenna checks out
her information, the bike has disappeared. Eventually Jan solves the
mystery and her brother is cleared.

Teens reading this book will learn about some of the cultural aspects
of Métis life, and about how racial prejudice and lack of tolerance can
lead to injustice. Although not an especially well-written young-adult
novel, Lightning Rider is worth reading for its important cultural
value. Recommended.