Initiation

John Walker is a professor of Spanish studies at Queen’s University.

Set in a village north of Vancouver during the 15th century, Initiation
is based on a Kwakiutl myth about pre-conquest times, when male warriors
were believed to be able to turn themselves into salmon and so help to
regenerate the natural world. It tells the story of Nana, daughter of a
Kwakiutl chief, who is destined to be sold in marriage to another tribe,
and her twin brother, Nanolatch, who has to remain in his village in
order to become a warrior chief. The twins’ initiation and entry into
adulthood is complicated by their capture of a young mute slave from a
neighbouring village.

This well-researched, nicely illustrated book includes a useful
glossary and an informative epilogue that helps to explain the
historical background and geographical setting. Ontario-born Schwartz is
the award-winning author of three previous historical novels: Messenger,
Send One Angel Down, and If I Just Had Two Wings. Highly recommended.