This is one of the most tedious books I've ever read, but in spite of the slogging plot, there are necessary issues that Jane Kirkpatrick brings to the attention of her readers. Her historical novels remind me of books I've read by Irving Stone, but her way with words in this one is not quite as prosaic. That being said, there are interesting parts of this book.
Natalie is a classical pianist and vocalist who has had a heartbreak that has affected her health. Her brother has lived in the dry climates of the southwest for a while and his health issues have been resolved due to the drier air there. Natalie goes back west with him and learns of the natives on the reservations in the southwest and the government-sanctioned deplorable conditions they are forced to live in. They are not allowed to engage in their own cultural activities, like singing and dancing.
The one thing Natalie has going for her is her family's connection to President Teddy Roosevelt, whose aid she enlists in preserving the cultural treasures of the natives of the southwest. By recording the songs, Natalie is able to share the richness of the Native Americans with others who are sponsoring her work. By throwing herself into her work, she finds the healing she so desperately needs.
Natalie Curtis was a real woman who spent time among the various tribes on reservations, fighting for their rights, and this book chronicles her journey to find hope and healing for herself and for the natives.
Three Stars
Revell Publishing and NetGalley.com provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
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