The Portal Keeper

The Misewa Saga #4

by David Alexander Robertson

Eli and Morgan experience life-changing revelations in this new adventure in the award-winning, Narnia-inspired Indigenous middle-grade fantasy series.

While exploring World’s End, an area in Aski they've just discovered, Morgan and Emily delight in their developing relationship, while Eli struggles to understand his new-found the ability to locate a portal. A shocking turn of events leads them to a new village, Ministik, where the animal beings who live there are going missing. Horrified to discover who is responsible, the children vow to help and turn to friends, old and new. But it's getting harder and harder to keep the two worlds separate, especially when details of a traditional legend change everything. Forever.

Genres: Fantasy, Middle Grade, Indigenous, Fiction, Native American, Young Adult Fantasy, Childrens

252 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 10, 2023

About the author

DAVID A. ROBERTSON is a two-time winner of the Governor General's Literary Award, has won the TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award, as well as the Writer's Union of Canada Freedom to Read award. He has received several other accolades for his work as a writer for children and adults, podcaster, public speaker, and social advocate. He was honoured with a Doctor of Letters by the University of Manitoba for outstanding contributions in the arts and distinguished achievements in 2023. He is a member of Norway House Cree Nation and lives in Winnipeg.

Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 3 out of 5]

So, for those who’ve been following my reviews on this series, my niece informed me that she’s not continuing on. In all honesty, I’m relieved. I’ve read ahead and don’t feel comfortable with some of the content.

The main focus of this fourth book is identity.

I’ve been wondering when the author’s indigenous heritage and his struggle with anxiety would show up in this series…it does here! I was happy to see Emily work with Eli to help him deal with his anxiety, and was interested to see what Robertson would share about the Norway House Cree Nation.

I loved the focus on finding a new portal, the warning about nature’s bright colours, and the insight into being knowledge keepers.

[Mrs Heidrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!
Finished this the night before last night and feel like I'll be processing this one for a while as there are so many wonderful layers to it. I admit to having loved this series and was wondering where it would go in book 4 and I couldn't have possibly imagined. I won't be giving too many details as readers need to be able to experience this one for themselves.

David Robertson's creativity, world building and description is next level! I knew based on things I had heard previously from the author during a presentation that this book would shift to more of a focus on Eli than Morgan and it felt like this allowed for a somewhat different direction for the book in some ways. While many characters will be familiar, when Eli, Morgan and Emily try to return to Misewa, they get more than they expected and will keep readers turning the pages!

The Indigenous stories and storytelling within the book are beautiful and there's a calmness that seems to come from them when there is so much other heightened action at times, which makes for great pacing. There is also some crucial social commentary that is key to building better understandings and relationships in the real world.

Got totally lost in this one and just when I couldn’t imagine what would happen in Book 4, I’m desperate for Book 5! Stellar!!

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eli and Morgan's fantasy and human worlds collide in disastrous ways in this latest middle grade fantasy book perfect for fans of Narnia and the Pax series. The two Indigenous tweens face new foes, new powers and learn t rely on both their animal friends and foster family as they race to save the day once again. Full of empowering messages about learning to control your emotions, deal with trauma and be brave. This was great on audio and another fantastic read from one of my fav authors! Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!

[Royolaroyola · Rating 5 out of 5]

Me and my 9yo are obsessed with this series!

[Shari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this continuation of The Misewa Saga! The perspective has shifted to Eli as the second "half" of the series begins. Eli, Morgan, and Emily have found a new portal to visit Askí, but this time they travel to World's End, meeting new challenges, new friends - and new enemies.
That's all I want to say without spoiling anything! I have enjoyed every one of these books, but this one really had me on the edge of my seat! I'm already looking forward to reading book 5!

Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC!

[Lillian · Rating 4 out of 5]

When does the next one come out?

The first part of the book was a little slow as we wrap up Morgan's story and start into Eli's but I am very interested to see what happens next

[Signey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This book might be my favourite from the series (so far)!! This book does shift the focus from Morgan and to Eli - which took me some time to get used to, but I am enjoying the growth that Eli went through in this book.

Also, like the other books in the series, the Indigenous stories and storytelling are beautiful.

[Mateusz · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Portal Keeper" is the fourth volume in Robertson's award-winning middle-grade Misewa Saga. Unlike the previous three books, this one is focalized by Eli, the younger foster brother of Morgan (the central character of the first three volumes of the saga). I must say "The Portal Keeper" is my favorite part of the series! It is well-written, captivating, and answers some of the questions I had while reading the previous books. I particularly enjoyed the liminal character of Robertson's chronotope and the subtle (but poignant) references to the actual experiences of Canada's Indigenous Peoples, such as the residential schools and police brutality. Highly recommended.

[Susan Coulter · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can’t rave about the Misewa Saga enough, and book four: The Portal Keeper by David A. Robertson keeps building on the magic. This book is not only a continuation of the existing story but also begins laying the foundation for what is to come in the future. Although on earth, not a lot of time has passed, Eli and Morgan have formed an incredible bond based on their time in Misewa together. This book is really a book in two parts: the first continues the story of Morgan and her Mother and introduces us to her Grandmother along with Eli’s experiences with his family, and the second is exploring Eli’s portal-finding abilities. Together with Morgan’s girlfriend Emily, the trio find themselves exploring more of World’s End and a new village: Ministik, where the animals are incredibly mistrustful of the new arrivals as many of the animals have recently gone missing at the hands of other humans. It is only when then return to earth, that the trio realize what is really happening. As a reader from Thunder Bay, home to the Sleeping Giant, Nanabijou, I was once again intrigued by the legends in this book and really enjoyed learning that the Sleeping Giant I know, is not the only giant, though the legend of concealment and protection are very similar. I eagerly await the next installment in this series. Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Random House Canada for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've fallen in love with this saga. Waiting for the next one to arrive.

[Bethe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fifth star for the cliffhanger revelation alone, altho I did see it coming a few chapters before the end. Kids find a new village of animal beings which delay their return visit Misewa. Morgan meets her grandmother, another secret is revealed. Just adore this series and I know there’s just got to be another!

[Lata · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eli, Morgan and Emily have travelled with Katie to spend some time with Morgan's kokum Eleanor . They also plan to open a portal and spend some time in Misewa.

After arriving in Misewa, they're horrified to learn that villages have been ransacked and beings kidnapped. The kids have their own violent encounter with the perpetrators, who are targeting the talking animals, and taking them to some unknown location.

The story closes with a surprising revelation, and with a large task ahead of the trio: rescue the kidnapped animals and somehow prevent more from being taken and exploited.

This story continues to be great. I love Eli and Morgan, and Emily joining the siblings to visit Morgan's kokum and for a sojourn in Misewa is great. I also particularly liked how author David A. Robertson enlightened Katie and Eleanor about Misewa and the siblings' travels there. And how important this other world and their friends there is to them.

The storytelling remains great, with a nice balance of action, character moments and social commentary about Canada's dark history with the indigenous population. The tone is soothing and calm, despite the terrible fate of the Misewa residents, and the new, terrible threat to their world. And that revelation right at the end! Loved it!

I am very eager to find out what happens next.

Thank you to Netgalley and to Penguin Random House Canada for this ARC in exchange for my review.

[Rob Brock · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in the Misewa series, loosely inspired by the Chronicles of Narnia, but I love how the whole series has been exceeding the Narnia books in both depth and truth. As many writers have observed, fiction is a lie that tells the truth, and the Misewa Saga tells important truths through the magical realism of the world of Aski. In many ways, the narrative moves so quickly it can be easy to overlook the important social insights, but as I reflect on this book in the days after finishing it with my 13 yr old son, I realize there is far more here than just a fun adventure. The story shifts from a primary focus on Morgan to her foster brother Eli, giving us glimpses into his background and new capabilities that he is discovering. Eli and Morgan, along with Morgan's girlfriend Emily, go once again to Aski to help the animal creatures there, but the dangers the creatures of Aski face are far more insidious that what it might at first seem. I won't spoil details of the plot, but the arc of the series gives new insights into the troubled history of indigenous people in North America because of the self-serving, violent demands of European colonizers. This series just keeps getting better and better.

[middle_schoolers_read Lindsay P · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our Grade 6 students are reading The Barren Grounds for their book clubs in class and I realized that I had only read up to the third book in the series, so of course I had to start on book 4, The Portal Keeper. Reading this book after a long time between books had no impact on how quickly I fell back into the world of the North Country and couldn’t stop reading it.

One of the reasons I love this book so much is that the characters and their dynamic with each other are so genuinely realistic, even while travelling through a portal and exploring a magical world with their animal beings friends. Eli, Morgan and Emily remind me of the sibling relationship I grew up around; teasing each other, calling each other out when needed, but also being there for each other unconditionally. Book 4 strengthens the sibling bond between Eli and Morgan, the romantic bond between Morgan and Emily, their bond with the animal beings in The North Country, but also their bond and connection to their past and their ancestors.

Who will like this?
✅ Grades 6-8
✅ Fans of Books 1-3 of this series
✅ Fans of fantasy adventures and magical worlds

[April Hilland · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Misewa Saga: The Portal Keeper" is a compelling middle-grade novel, I find Robertson's latest installment to be a captivating continuation of Morgan and Eli's adventures. In this volume, the focus shifts to Eli as he discovers the extent of his portal-opening powers, adding depth to the series' exploration of identity and heritage. Robertson skillfully maintains the series' trademark elements of adventure, witty banter, and heartfelt reflections on Indigenous experiences. The introduction of new pisiskowak characters enriches the story, while the inclusion of LGBTQ+ representation through a character using they/them pronouns further diversifies the narrative. With critical revelations about Eli's heritage and intense battles, this book not only provides a satisfying conclusion but also sets the stage for the next exciting chapter in the saga. Middle-grade readers will be drawn into this imaginative world and eagerly await the next adventure.

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

The Portal Keeper, is the 4th book the Misewa Saga. It's another imaginative and heartfelt journey into the richly woven world of Indigenous storytelling. Robertson continues to blend fantasy and Cree culture in a way that feels both magical and meaningful.

Morgan and Eli continue into new realms and face fresh challenges that test their courage, wisdom and friendship. Being the 4th book I wondered what could be next and again the Misewa world expands in new ways that offer new characters and settings.

I don't really want to say too much, especially for those that haven't started this series. Book 6 just released today. Suffice to say this is an adventure filled series with emotion and cultural insight. I definitely recommend reading this series in order. Though written for the middle grade readers this adult is enjoying this series.

This book is part of my 2025 Reading Off My Shelf Challenge - #40

[Makayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚 4/5 Stars – A powerful new chapter in the Misewa Saga

The Portal Keeper continues the Misewa Saga with a fresh perspective, focusing on Eli as he begins to uncover the true strength of his unique abilities. Alongside Morgan and Emily, he’s pulled into a new part of Aski where unexpected challenges test their courage, connection, and sense of justice.

David A. Robertson masterfully weaves Cree culture and legend into a fantasy adventure that feels both timeless and urgent. The emotional depth, strong friendships, and subtle commentary on real-world issues make this a standout in the series. It’s thoughtful, immersive, and layered with meaning—perfect for middle-grade readers and adults alike.

Whether you’re new to the series or already a fan, this installment delivers action, heart, and a deeper look into the power of stories and identity.

[Autumn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love stepping into the world of Misewa. It is always fun being reacquainted with these characters and seeing what they're up to next.

In this one, the kids travel using a different portal and end up in a different community. They want to quietly pass through to go see their friends before they have to get home. But there is something afflicting this area--the animal residents keep going missing. They agree to go on a fact finding mission and feel terrible when it goes wrong. They commit to making it right, even if that means giving up their secret place.

There is more of the real world in this one. Emily and Morgan are cute as a couple. Eli's newfound powers a bit confusing, but I'm sure they'll be developed more in later books.

I'm disappointed by the change in cover design.

[Linda Stopani · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 4th book in a series (The Misawa Saga). I read the 3rd in the series and really enjoyed it. This book continues the story using characters from the Cree in Canada. There’s a lot of adventure and heart-stopping excitement of monster chases and good-guy-wins that appeal to the middle schooler. The Cree names and phrases can be a little overwhelming at first, but they get easier as the story unfolds. However, the character of Emily didn't really fit into the story very well. I think she was too much of a distraction and not really relevant to the story. I enjoyed this book, but I liked the 3rd one better.

[Kaylee (Curiously Kaylee) · Rating 4 out of 5]

"An Elder once told me that you should never tell a story, or listen to one, on an empty stomach."

Oh how l've loved being back in this world! There's just something about a portal fantasy with sassy talking animals and a found family that that makes my heart sing.

I love that this series explores life on both sides of a portal and what happens during the in between.
I very much appreciate the world building and how much Cree legend and language are infused into every part of Askí.

This book felt more like half of a book to me, so l'm glad that I have The Sleeping Giant downloaded and ready to start soon. I can't wait to see what Morgan and Eli get up to next!

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A perk of becoming school librarian is revisiting things and getting current: I didn’t even know there were more books in this series! (After having adored books 1-3.) I was worried I didn’t remember enough to just jump in, but I left myself no choice (just packed this one for a train ride) and turned out my memory came back as it went.
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Not a super satisfying ending—this is certainly a setup for the next one—but loved the revelations and evolution of what’s going on with Eli. These books are so intense in both bad (in terms of bad things happening to the characters, not bad story/writing) and good ways at the same time. It’s wild.

[Tomiko Robson · Rating 3 out of 5]

*3.5 I’m continuing to read the series because my students enjoyed the first one so much. At the same time, in the first part of this book, it really started to feel like a series, in the sense that the individual stories wouldn’t stand on their own. I began to lose interest but I pushed through. It’s Eli’s development at the very end that makes me want to stay with these characters. Now it feel’s like there is a bigger story to track through the upcoming books. And I feel like kids who love reading series would still love these books.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this with my ten year old, who was excited to again join Eli, Morgan, and Emily on their continuing adventure. Like every volume, the action connects to deeper themes -- the Portal Keeper touches on the power of understanding family and ancestral stories and how traumatizing events can re-open these portals to our ancestral lineages. This book was engaging and provided lots of opportunities to talk about how the themes look in our world and lives. Much gratitude to David Alexander Robertson for continuing to deepen these characters and adding so much care to their journey.

[Malissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is such a good series, and my 10-year-old son absolutely loves it. We've read every one aloud together and can't wait for the next installment. This one has a bit of a cliffhanger ending, but it's less in an abrupt way and more in a Fellowship of the Ring sort of way if that makes sense. The character development as the series progresses is really great, too.

[Lori Emilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful continuation of the Misewa saga. I particularly enjoyed learning more about Eli from his own perspective. Lots to unpack in this story, with many parallels to Indigenous people today and throughout history. Well done, David A. Robertson. Can’t wait for book 5! Kids are going to love this one!

[Victoria Toria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love David Robertson’s world building, and as with the last two books, I’m looking forward to see little details pay off. The series seems well-planned and connected. — time aspect is really refreshing! I care about the characters, but I still feel like their interactions can feel a bit mechanical at times.

[Jaklyn Heath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woah!
Incredibly adventurous, tons of new information added to the world building and lore surrounding the portals and Aski (the world the children travel to). Lots of character development and interesting plot twists too! Can’t recommend this series enough and can’t wait for the next one!!

[Bradley Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 4 book in this series that I have read by the same author, and it keeps you intrigued. I am looking forward in reading the 5th book in this series. The Sleeping Giant: The Misewa Saga, Book Five.

[Kim Shay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another entertaining instalment in the series. I like the allusion to the destruction of Indigenous life and culture as depicted in the destruction of the village of Ministik. Also a good cliff hanger at the end that leaves the reader wanting to read volume 5.

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read aloud with my 8 yo. he rated it 9.9/10 (he subtracted .1 for the cliffhanger at the end and then the epilogue that provided another cliffhanger.) This series is seriously engaging, digging deep into indigenous cultures, magic, and social issues of the past and today.