First off… I need to tell you: I was emotionally invested in Firekeeper’s Daughter on the first page. I read half of this novel on a Sunday and I was so excited to go to work on Monday to tell my classes all about it!
Daunis Fountaine is a young Native woman who has had setbacks in her life… From her father’s death to her grandmother’s illness, it seems there has always been grief in her life. She’s even decided to study at the local state school instead of U of Michigan where she might have had a chance to play hockey, if not for an old injury. She does have her loyal brother who is a star in his own right playing on the local high school All Star team called the Supes. It is at this moment that two things happen that will change her world. A new hockey player moves to town and there is an instant attraction. And soon after, Daunis witnesses the murder of her close friend by Lily’s drug-addict boyfriend.
There is so much depth and complexity to Boulley’s narrative. A quick list of the highlights: traditional Native medicine, hockey tactics, the language of the Ojibwe, the chemistry of meth, filial obligation… These are just a few of the topics explored in the book, and I could write pages and pages about how it aided the character development and moved the plot forward and helped to foreshadow the continued growth of Daunis as a young person. And I really want you to read this to find out for yourself!
I was continually blown away by the strength of all facets of Firekeeper’s Daughter. And my librarian at school knew about it on Monday, Ha! Two years ago I read another book that affected me in a similar way. Sadie by Courtney Summers is a book I have recommended over and over to people. And I will be doing the same with Firekeeper’s Daughter.
5 out of 5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Publishing, and the author for an advanced copy for review.
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