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The Lynching of Louie Sam
Fifteen-year-old George Gillies lives in the Washington Territory in the late 1800s, where white settlers have an uneasy relationship with the indigenous people living there. When a local man is found murdered, suspicion falls on Louie Sam, a young member of the Stó:lō tribe. George and his best friend, Pete, follow a lynch mob north into Canada, where the terrified boy is seized and hung.
Racked with doubts, George begins to ask questions. Was Louie Sam really a murderer? As George uncovers the truth, tensions in the town rise, and he must face his own part in the tragedy.
Inspired by a true story.
Racked with doubts, George begins to ask questions. Was Louie Sam really a murderer? As George uncovers the truth, tensions in the town rise, and he must face his own part in the tragedy.
Inspired by a true story.
288 pages, Paperback
First published June 21, 2012
8 people are currently reading
241 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Stewart
1 book1 followerElizabeth Stewart is a screenwriter, television producer, and novelist.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
August 18, 2012
"According to the Tuskegee Institute of Alabama, between 1882 and 1968, there were 4,742 lynchings in the United States. In Canada during the same period, there was one - the lynching of Louie Sam."
The Lynching of Louis Sam, although fiction, is based on a true story. Most of the facts in this book are taken from the records and from the documentary of the same name. They are as follows:
In 1884, near Nooksack, in the Washington Territory, a storekeeper named James Bell was murdered and his homestead set on fire. A witness claimed to have seen Louis Sam, a young Sto:lo boy of approximately 14 years near the scene and 'there was murder in his eyes'. Sam lived in British Columbia which was only a few kilometers away. The Canadian authorities were notified and Sam was taken into custody. However, they insisted that, before they would extradite Sam, he would be tried in Canada. Instead, a group of men from Nooksack disguised themselves, some in women's clothes, crossed the border and took Sam from where he was being held. Just a few meters from the border but on the Canadian side, Sam was lynched. The Sto:lo tribe threatened revenge and the Canadian government, fearing a border war, demanded the arrest of the mob leaders and even sent agents undercover to try to find the guilty parties. Eventually, though, the investigation was dropped by both governments and no one was ever charged with the lynching. Although the truth of Bell's murder has never been fully discovered, there is a great deal of evidence that Louie Sam was innocent but, due to the racism of the time and the fact that his father was in prison for killing cattle and was suspected of the murder of a settler, he made an easy scapegoat.
Author, Elizabeth Stewart stays very close to the facts. Although she makes it clear she believes Sam was innocent, she deliberately avoids trying to recreate Sam's thoughts or those of the Sto:lo tribe. Instead, the narrator of the story is George Gillies, the 14-year-old son of Scottish immigrants, and one of the children who first spotted the fire at the Bell house. When the lynch mob is being formed, George wants to go but his father, a member of the 'vigilance committee' tells him to stay home. Instead, George and a friend follow the mob and he is present at the lynching. He is surprised by the fact that Sam is just a boy. He also notices other things which make him think Sam is innocent.
He tries to convince others of this and, although his father agrees with him, it becomes very clear that no one else does or, at least, is willing to do anything. Many, in fact, have their own suspicions of who murdered Bell and why but see no purpose served by saying anything. After all, Sam was just an Indian and, anyway, the citizens of Nooksack are seeking statehood and revealing their role in the lynching could jeopardize this.
Although a work of fiction, by staying close to the facts, Stewart has a written a compelling tale of the dark side of both Canadian and American history. Too often, fictional accounts of the 'old west' show it as a period of unbridled freedom, a sort of surreal Star Warsesque time where men were men and the white hats always won. The Lynching of Louie Sam is aimed at a YA audience but, for anyone interested in the truth about frontier life, especially the idea of 'frontier justice', this novel gives an unflinching account of Lynch's Law.
The Lynching of Louis Sam, although fiction, is based on a true story. Most of the facts in this book are taken from the records and from the documentary of the same name. They are as follows:
In 1884, near Nooksack, in the Washington Territory, a storekeeper named James Bell was murdered and his homestead set on fire. A witness claimed to have seen Louis Sam, a young Sto:lo boy of approximately 14 years near the scene and 'there was murder in his eyes'. Sam lived in British Columbia which was only a few kilometers away. The Canadian authorities were notified and Sam was taken into custody. However, they insisted that, before they would extradite Sam, he would be tried in Canada. Instead, a group of men from Nooksack disguised themselves, some in women's clothes, crossed the border and took Sam from where he was being held. Just a few meters from the border but on the Canadian side, Sam was lynched. The Sto:lo tribe threatened revenge and the Canadian government, fearing a border war, demanded the arrest of the mob leaders and even sent agents undercover to try to find the guilty parties. Eventually, though, the investigation was dropped by both governments and no one was ever charged with the lynching. Although the truth of Bell's murder has never been fully discovered, there is a great deal of evidence that Louie Sam was innocent but, due to the racism of the time and the fact that his father was in prison for killing cattle and was suspected of the murder of a settler, he made an easy scapegoat.
Author, Elizabeth Stewart stays very close to the facts. Although she makes it clear she believes Sam was innocent, she deliberately avoids trying to recreate Sam's thoughts or those of the Sto:lo tribe. Instead, the narrator of the story is George Gillies, the 14-year-old son of Scottish immigrants, and one of the children who first spotted the fire at the Bell house. When the lynch mob is being formed, George wants to go but his father, a member of the 'vigilance committee' tells him to stay home. Instead, George and a friend follow the mob and he is present at the lynching. He is surprised by the fact that Sam is just a boy. He also notices other things which make him think Sam is innocent.
He tries to convince others of this and, although his father agrees with him, it becomes very clear that no one else does or, at least, is willing to do anything. Many, in fact, have their own suspicions of who murdered Bell and why but see no purpose served by saying anything. After all, Sam was just an Indian and, anyway, the citizens of Nooksack are seeking statehood and revealing their role in the lynching could jeopardize this.
Although a work of fiction, by staying close to the facts, Stewart has a written a compelling tale of the dark side of both Canadian and American history. Too often, fictional accounts of the 'old west' show it as a period of unbridled freedom, a sort of surreal Star Warsesque time where men were men and the white hats always won. The Lynching of Louie Sam is aimed at a YA audience but, for anyone interested in the truth about frontier life, especially the idea of 'frontier justice', this novel gives an unflinching account of Lynch's Law.
July 26, 2012
What a dynamic book this was. The story was engrossing and fascinating on many fronts. First, the author sucked me in with the historical perspective of the story. I had never heard of this incredibly sad story of the murder of a 13 year old boy due to mob action and that is where the sadness simply begins. Ms. Stewart slowly, methodically and masterfully unwrapped the storyline to show something much more sinister that was going on in this small town being careful to keep the gut wrenching and spine tingling emotion present.
To boot, Ms. Stewart follows the story with the historical facts behind her book which were as fascinating as her story. Normally, I would skip sections like this but found myself as enthralled with that part of the book as I was the main story.
At 180 some odd pages, this JUVENILE piece of literature showed its' intelligence that quality books targeted towards our youth do not need to have vampires, wolves or popular "mean girls" to be engrossing!
On a side note, there is the instance of the usage of one expletive that personally I found offensive particularly in a book targeted towards young adults. I took the time to check this out with a middle school librarian, a children's librarian and a library director. All assured me that due to the context in which the word was used that it was appropriate.
To boot, Ms. Stewart follows the story with the historical facts behind her book which were as fascinating as her story. Normally, I would skip sections like this but found myself as enthralled with that part of the book as I was the main story.
At 180 some odd pages, this JUVENILE piece of literature showed its' intelligence that quality books targeted towards our youth do not need to have vampires, wolves or popular "mean girls" to be engrossing!
On a side note, there is the instance of the usage of one expletive that personally I found offensive particularly in a book targeted towards young adults. I took the time to check this out with a middle school librarian, a children's librarian and a library director. All assured me that due to the context in which the word was used that it was appropriate.
October 11, 2012
A powerful story based upon real events about racism and scapegoating. Between 1882 and 1968, there were 4,742 lynchings in the United States. In Canada during the same period, there was one - the lynching of Louie Sam, a fifteen-year-old Native American accused of murdering a white man. This story is told through the eyes of a fifteen-year-old boy who witnesses the lynching and whose father takes part in the vigilante party. A compelling, well-told story.
March 25, 2013
This story, set in Washington State, describes an injustice involving the framing and murder of a fourteen-year-old Native American for a crime committed by someone else. Louie Sam had apparently been in the wrong place at the wrong time when Jim Bell was killed. The settlers quickly form a posse and head north to Canada to see that "justice" is done. Tribal authorities had already surrendered the boy to the local sheriff so he could stand trial, but that never happened. The vigilantes lynched him in the woods and left his body hanging from a tree. Based on actual events and real individuals, the book is told from the perspective of fifteen-year-old George Gillies. Relying on his point of view allows the author to show readers how he shared many of the same prejudices and suspicions of those around him toward Native Americans. He and his friend Pete even follow the men who travel to Canada to bring back the accused. From the beginning, George isn't sure that Louie killed his neighbor, but he finds himself caught up in the frenzied need to blame someone, especially someone so convenient, and he assumes that no one would listen to him, after all. The consequences of the lynching are that a veil of silence falls over the participants, and when George's family tries to do the right thing, they realize that justice comes with a heavy price. This book mesmerized me and broke my heart as I kept hoping that the town's citizens would do the right thing. I was particularly impressed, though, with how easily regular folks got swept up into hunting down Louie Sam and taking justice into their own hands. This would be an excellent title to read and discuss in a social studies class since it provides such a perfect example of what happens when mobs rule and citizens follow the lead of loud, influential individuals without thinking. The author's Afterword includes information about this real-life blight on our nation's history.
June 8, 2017
A well written fictional account of racism and lynching and how it was covered up by the white man in a Northern Washington territory.
Stewart takes an actual historical event and has her main character, George Gillies, a fourteen year old boy, tell his account of what happened before, during and after the lynching of Louie Sam, a fourteen year old Native American boy. This fictional account of the only hanging of a Native American in Canada between 1882 and 1968 takes place in newly settled land of white settlers along the border between Washington Territory and the British of Columbia. In 1884, George and a childhood friend, Pete travel with a lynch mob which includes their fathers and other town leaders to seek out a Native American boy named Louie Sam, who has been accused of the killing of a local white settler, James Bill. This group of vigilantes takes justice into their own hands and hangs him that night on the Canadian side of the border instead of waiting for him to be delivered by his tribe for questioning. After witnessing this event, George begins to doubt the guilt of Louie Sam. He begins to investigate and uncovers information against Pete’s dad and other local leaders of the territory. In trying to bring resolve to his to his own guilt in this tragic death of Louie Sam, he causes tensions to rise in the community and brings unforeseen consequences upon his family and others even though he has been warned by his father. Stewart’s attention to historical detail is evident, but the reader can check fact against fiction by reading the afterward. This book could be used as a great teaching tool when discussing the effects of mob mentality, the lack of proper justice in a crime, racism, and discrimination against Native Americans during the westward expansion.
Stewart takes an actual historical event and has her main character, George Gillies, a fourteen year old boy, tell his account of what happened before, during and after the lynching of Louie Sam, a fourteen year old Native American boy. This fictional account of the only hanging of a Native American in Canada between 1882 and 1968 takes place in newly settled land of white settlers along the border between Washington Territory and the British of Columbia. In 1884, George and a childhood friend, Pete travel with a lynch mob which includes their fathers and other town leaders to seek out a Native American boy named Louie Sam, who has been accused of the killing of a local white settler, James Bill. This group of vigilantes takes justice into their own hands and hangs him that night on the Canadian side of the border instead of waiting for him to be delivered by his tribe for questioning. After witnessing this event, George begins to doubt the guilt of Louie Sam. He begins to investigate and uncovers information against Pete’s dad and other local leaders of the territory. In trying to bring resolve to his to his own guilt in this tragic death of Louie Sam, he causes tensions to rise in the community and brings unforeseen consequences upon his family and others even though he has been warned by his father. Stewart’s attention to historical detail is evident, but the reader can check fact against fiction by reading the afterward. This book could be used as a great teaching tool when discussing the effects of mob mentality, the lack of proper justice in a crime, racism, and discrimination against Native Americans during the westward expansion.
September 11, 2016
This book told the story of the historical lynching of a Native American on Canadian soil. This story is about 15 year old George Gillie, and his journey of becoming his own self. George follows a mob of white men to lynch Louie Sam, a Native American who was being accused of killing a white man. George felt conflicted after witnessing the lynching because he realized Louie Sam was falsely accused.
This book had a lot of potential to address social justice issues, along with other cultural and racial differences. I was disappointed that George never resolved the problem of doing what was right vs. what society was doing. George kind of brushed off this issue, and I was left without closure at the end of the book.
This book had a lot of potential to address social justice issues, along with other cultural and racial differences. I was disappointed that George never resolved the problem of doing what was right vs. what society was doing. George kind of brushed off this issue, and I was left without closure at the end of the book.
January 18, 2018
This book was very interesting for me to read, since I grew up in the area where Louie Sam is from but had never heard the story. The book follows a teen named George as he goes from participating in the lynching of a Stó:lō teenager to believing a white murderer took advantage of racist attitudes to get away with killing two innocent people. George is fictional, but the story is true.
It wouldn't have been possible for the author to tell the story without having the main character express racist views, but I would hesitate to assign this book in a classroom as I imagine it could be hurtful to read as an Indigenous student. Instead, I think this book could be valuable to give to non-Indigenous teens along with a discussion about the contents. There are historical notes in the book, and it seems to have been done responsibly enough as a teaching tool for non-Indigenous readers. The main character is white, so it isn't a journey of empathy so much as a guided tour from being prejudiced against Indigenous people to coming to trust and respect some Indigenous individuals and becoming aware of racist attitudes. Colonialist attitudes are not addressed. Could be an introduction to historical wrongs of individuals against Indigenous people, but I would want to follow up with a book written by an Indigenous person from an Indigenous character's perspective.
All in all, this book alone is not enough--few books are--and I would like to read an Indigenous reviewer's thoughts on it before wholeheartedly recommending it to all. There are already so many things in our world that are intended for settlers and not Indigenous people, and this book may be one of them. It is still an engaging story that may help non-Indigenous teens become more aware of the historical wrongs of settlers toward Indigenous people, hopefully leading them to do further reading.
It wouldn't have been possible for the author to tell the story without having the main character express racist views, but I would hesitate to assign this book in a classroom as I imagine it could be hurtful to read as an Indigenous student. Instead, I think this book could be valuable to give to non-Indigenous teens along with a discussion about the contents. There are historical notes in the book, and it seems to have been done responsibly enough as a teaching tool for non-Indigenous readers. The main character is white, so it isn't a journey of empathy so much as a guided tour from being prejudiced against Indigenous people to coming to trust and respect some Indigenous individuals and becoming aware of racist attitudes. Colonialist attitudes are not addressed. Could be an introduction to historical wrongs of individuals against Indigenous people, but I would want to follow up with a book written by an Indigenous person from an Indigenous character's perspective.
All in all, this book alone is not enough--few books are--and I would like to read an Indigenous reviewer's thoughts on it before wholeheartedly recommending it to all. There are already so many things in our world that are intended for settlers and not Indigenous people, and this book may be one of them. It is still an engaging story that may help non-Indigenous teens become more aware of the historical wrongs of settlers toward Indigenous people, hopefully leading them to do further reading.
July 20, 2017
An excellent read for any young adult novel. I would highly recommend this book to educators who are working with students in grade 7-9. A lot of great content is covered that will invite your students to dig deep inside of themselves to discuss the story and to also look at the various viewpoints to understand the complexity of the situation that they main character is in. It's easy to be noble and say you would do the "right" thing but times, society expectations, our own upbringing, safety, all play a role in what people choose to do , right or wrong. Hopefully it will provide you with an opportunity to assess how we continue to be influenced by societies standards, when choosing to lead our own lives today.
February 6, 2025
Such wicked, hateful men setting up a young boy to cover their murderous actions, stirring up neighbors to a fever pitch, then forever holding everyone in thrall... pure, unadulterated evil... eternity in hell will never be long enough...
A true story beautifully written; draws you in, ties you up, then holds you there with all the players...
READ THIS...IT WILL CHANGE YOU...
A true story beautifully written; draws you in, ties you up, then holds you there with all the players...
READ THIS...IT WILL CHANGE YOU...
August 24, 2017
Interesting history between BC and Washington State explored here in a story of law, international relations and racism injustice, reminiscent of the KKK's vigilante justice.
July 11, 2020
It was ok. It was less that what I thought it would be.
The “Forward” irritated me.
The “Forward” irritated me.
April 2, 2022
Gypsy's fate was pointless and infuriating, completely devaluing the rest of the book.
April 23, 2013
We all like to think that we are good people, that given the choice of standing up for someone very different from us who is in desperate need or joining in with our peers who are causing their need, we would do the right thing. But throughout history there were a litany of people who just stood by and let bad things happen. “The Lynching of Louie Sam” is likely the story of just such an event.
It’s 1884 in the Washington territory and the settlers in more remote parts of the territory stick close together for their safety and livelihood. While life is relatively peaceful, there is still tension with the Native peoples. George Gillies and his family live in what is now Whatcom County, Washington; just miles away from the international border with Canada. One Sunday on their way to church, George and his three siblings come across the burning house of their neighbor James Bell and they find that he has been murdered. All fingers point to a native boy, Louie Sam, who had been seen in the area that day. A lynch mob is formed to get Louie Sam; George and his friend Pete are eager to follow the mob into Canada to impress their fathers and their friends. Soon however, George and his father begin to have doubts about Louie Sam’s guilt. Will they keep quiet to protect their own, or will they do what is right?
“The Lynching of Louie Sam” is a historical novel that is based on an actual event. While the characters in the book were real people, any of their thoughts and actions, beyond the event in question, are merely great story telling. Elizabeth Stewart has written a gripping story about racism, injustice, and conscience. It even loosely touches on the issue of bullying. I think that Stewart explores the questions involved in these issues well: Is it more important to do what is right and see justice served, or to protect your own no matter what? And do you do what’s right to ease your conscience, or do you do what’s right because it’s right?
Stewart fleshes out a very complex cast of characters, especially in George Gillies. George is fifteen; he is trying to prove to his father and his friends that he is a man. This task is difficult because his best friend, Pete, constantly reminds him that he is a year older and treats him as such. In addition he has a very impetuous younger brother who seems to struggle less with his sense of right and wrong. Part of George’s problem is that he isn’t brash like many of the men and boys he knows, but he is thoughtful. In his one instance of definitive action and brashness the situation goes awry. So what does it mean to be a man?
There is just so much to enjoy about this book. The story is sad but riveting, the characters are complex, it touches home here in the Pacific Northwest, and the story’s moral is universal when considered alongside so many tragic events from history and modern times. I highly recommend this book for youth in 7th grade and up as well as adults.
It’s 1884 in the Washington territory and the settlers in more remote parts of the territory stick close together for their safety and livelihood. While life is relatively peaceful, there is still tension with the Native peoples. George Gillies and his family live in what is now Whatcom County, Washington; just miles away from the international border with Canada. One Sunday on their way to church, George and his three siblings come across the burning house of their neighbor James Bell and they find that he has been murdered. All fingers point to a native boy, Louie Sam, who had been seen in the area that day. A lynch mob is formed to get Louie Sam; George and his friend Pete are eager to follow the mob into Canada to impress their fathers and their friends. Soon however, George and his father begin to have doubts about Louie Sam’s guilt. Will they keep quiet to protect their own, or will they do what is right?
“The Lynching of Louie Sam” is a historical novel that is based on an actual event. While the characters in the book were real people, any of their thoughts and actions, beyond the event in question, are merely great story telling. Elizabeth Stewart has written a gripping story about racism, injustice, and conscience. It even loosely touches on the issue of bullying. I think that Stewart explores the questions involved in these issues well: Is it more important to do what is right and see justice served, or to protect your own no matter what? And do you do what’s right to ease your conscience, or do you do what’s right because it’s right?
Stewart fleshes out a very complex cast of characters, especially in George Gillies. George is fifteen; he is trying to prove to his father and his friends that he is a man. This task is difficult because his best friend, Pete, constantly reminds him that he is a year older and treats him as such. In addition he has a very impetuous younger brother who seems to struggle less with his sense of right and wrong. Part of George’s problem is that he isn’t brash like many of the men and boys he knows, but he is thoughtful. In his one instance of definitive action and brashness the situation goes awry. So what does it mean to be a man?
There is just so much to enjoy about this book. The story is sad but riveting, the characters are complex, it touches home here in the Pacific Northwest, and the story’s moral is universal when considered alongside so many tragic events from history and modern times. I highly recommend this book for youth in 7th grade and up as well as adults.
September 29, 2015
Have you ever read the book the lynching of Louie Sam. This is a good book because it is about some kids that come from England and they are immigrants and they are trying to not being seen by the police because they came to america without anyone noticing.
The book that i'm currently reading is the lynching of loui Sam and this book takes place in 1884 and it is a 15 year old kid and his name is George gillies and his family are immigrants. They moved to the Washington territory and they were white settlers with a close relationship with native Americans.the main Theme of the story is action because it is talking about some kids and and their parents and that the police are trying to find them.
George began to have thoughts about a 14 year old boy called Louie Sam.George Willies thinks Louie made a murder and that's why he has thoughts about Louie.George is trying to find out the the truth but then he finds himself with a part of tragedy.but he is going to stand up for what is right and that is for his friend. George is a nice kid and his brother asked him if he was an immigrant an then George was too scared to say yes so he said no.
The rate that i gave the book is a 5 star because it is talking about somebody life. i would recommend this book to the people that like story'about other people in their life.The saddest part en most interesting was when the little kid asked George if he was immigrant and George said no.I think that was the most interesting part of the story because that is the part where it was the most mysterious because i did not know what he was going to say.
The book that i'm currently reading is the lynching of loui Sam and this book takes place in 1884 and it is a 15 year old kid and his name is George gillies and his family are immigrants. They moved to the Washington territory and they were white settlers with a close relationship with native Americans.the main Theme of the story is action because it is talking about some kids and and their parents and that the police are trying to find them.
George began to have thoughts about a 14 year old boy called Louie Sam.George Willies thinks Louie made a murder and that's why he has thoughts about Louie.George is trying to find out the the truth but then he finds himself with a part of tragedy.but he is going to stand up for what is right and that is for his friend. George is a nice kid and his brother asked him if he was an immigrant an then George was too scared to say yes so he said no.
The rate that i gave the book is a 5 star because it is talking about somebody life. i would recommend this book to the people that like story'about other people in their life.The saddest part en most interesting was when the little kid asked George if he was immigrant and George said no.I think that was the most interesting part of the story because that is the part where it was the most mysterious because i did not know what he was going to say.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2013
Stewart, E. (2012). The lynching of Louie Sam. Toronto, ON: Annick Press Ltd.
Fifteen year old Washington Territory citizen, George stumbles upon a cabin in flames and in the process of rescuing the owner discovers that he has been murdered. In the hysteria that follows, a fourteen year old Canadian aboriginal boy is lynched and the town of Nooksack is thrown into the maelstrom; who will crack the town’s secret and right the wrongs that have been done in the name of justice?
This work of historical fiction is based on the only recoded lynching that happened on Canadian soil in 1884. The narrator, George is a young adult, creatively re-imagined by Stewart, based on original interviews and documents (see link below); his perspective swings wildly between boy and adult, which impedes the telling. While the story is filled with much authentic detail, as the afterward can attest to, including “nineteenth century racism,” it rambles with too many details. Recommended for young adults, age 12+. Advisory: contains racist language and imagery, violence.
http://www.geist.com/fact/dispatches/...
2013 Notable Books for a Global Society White Ravens Collection
2013, International Youth Library, Munich
2013 Skipping Stones Honor Award Best Books for Kids & Teens
2013, Canadian Children’s Book Centre Snow Willow Young Reader’s Choice Award nomination
2013 Arthur Ellis Award finalist, Crime Writers of Canada
2014 Manitoba Young Readers’ Choice Award finalist
http://www.geist.com/fact/dispatches/...
Fifteen year old Washington Territory citizen, George stumbles upon a cabin in flames and in the process of rescuing the owner discovers that he has been murdered. In the hysteria that follows, a fourteen year old Canadian aboriginal boy is lynched and the town of Nooksack is thrown into the maelstrom; who will crack the town’s secret and right the wrongs that have been done in the name of justice?
This work of historical fiction is based on the only recoded lynching that happened on Canadian soil in 1884. The narrator, George is a young adult, creatively re-imagined by Stewart, based on original interviews and documents (see link below); his perspective swings wildly between boy and adult, which impedes the telling. While the story is filled with much authentic detail, as the afterward can attest to, including “nineteenth century racism,” it rambles with too many details. Recommended for young adults, age 12+. Advisory: contains racist language and imagery, violence.
http://www.geist.com/fact/dispatches/...
2013 Notable Books for a Global Society White Ravens Collection
2013, International Youth Library, Munich
2013 Skipping Stones Honor Award Best Books for Kids & Teens
2013, Canadian Children’s Book Centre Snow Willow Young Reader’s Choice Award nomination
2013 Arthur Ellis Award finalist, Crime Writers of Canada
2014 Manitoba Young Readers’ Choice Award finalist
http://www.geist.com/fact/dispatches/...
July 1, 2017
When I bought this book, I didn't realize it was a Young Adult novel (apparently the used book store I bought it at didn't either), which confused me a little in the beginning. Once I realized my mistake and shifted my expectations, I found myself really enjoying this novel.
The Lynching of Louie Sam tells the story of a young white settler named George in the United States who finds the murdered body of another settler, and gets caught up with the mob from his village that seeks "justice." Of course, this justice involves the lynching of a young Native male. After the lynching, George starts to question Louie Sam's guilt and learns the unfortunate lesson that sometimes guilt matters less than a person's skin colour.
Elizabeth Stewart does an impressive job writing about discrimination, racism, the mob mentality, and coming of age. The dilemma that George faces is realistic, and Stewart doesn't condescend to a younger audience by simplifying the consequences and dilemma that George faces.
This novel is also great for teaching students about racism in that historic time period and can be linked to current events. I think that this would be great to introduce deep discussion in a classroom setting or with a young reader.
The Lynching of Louie Sam tells the story of a young white settler named George in the United States who finds the murdered body of another settler, and gets caught up with the mob from his village that seeks "justice." Of course, this justice involves the lynching of a young Native male. After the lynching, George starts to question Louie Sam's guilt and learns the unfortunate lesson that sometimes guilt matters less than a person's skin colour.
Elizabeth Stewart does an impressive job writing about discrimination, racism, the mob mentality, and coming of age. The dilemma that George faces is realistic, and Stewart doesn't condescend to a younger audience by simplifying the consequences and dilemma that George faces.
This novel is also great for teaching students about racism in that historic time period and can be linked to current events. I think that this would be great to introduce deep discussion in a classroom setting or with a young reader.
March 6, 2013
Grade: B
Overall, The Lynching of Louie Sam was a satisfactory read. I think what drag the grade down for me was George's character and the confusion about his age. I had to remind myself too many times that George was 15 years old and not 12 years old. It doesn't seem like a big thing but subject matter that is dealt with in the book it is important. While the writing was solid, it wasn't quite as strong as I would have like it to been. The research and historical facts is what saved The Lynching of Louie Sam from being a C+/B- book.
Overall Recommendation:
I would recommend The Lynching of Louie Sam to anyone that enjoy Historical Fiction and would like to read about the early settlers in the Washington region. I found the historical setting by itself fascinating and well worth the read.
Full Review can be found atThe Little Reading Nook
Overall, The Lynching of Louie Sam was a satisfactory read. I think what drag the grade down for me was George's character and the confusion about his age. I had to remind myself too many times that George was 15 years old and not 12 years old. It doesn't seem like a big thing but subject matter that is dealt with in the book it is important. While the writing was solid, it wasn't quite as strong as I would have like it to been. The research and historical facts is what saved The Lynching of Louie Sam from being a C+/B- book.
Overall Recommendation:
I would recommend The Lynching of Louie Sam to anyone that enjoy Historical Fiction and would like to read about the early settlers in the Washington region. I found the historical setting by itself fascinating and well worth the read.
Full Review can be found atThe Little Reading Nook
September 1, 2014
This is a historical novel that tells the story of the only lynching ever to take place on Canadian soil…a lynching caused (embarrassingly) by Americans.
It's the story of the murder of a man, the pursuit of another, a lynching, and the aftermath. Mostly, though, it's the story of fear. The people in the Washington community are scared of all people, both First Nation and immigrant, and their fear is easily manipulated by those who have things to gain (or things to lose) if the fear were to be replaced by reason.
In some ways, this is also the story of manipulation and of truth. The beginning of the book is a little like listening to a "Tea Party" from 1884, with oft-repeated claims becoming truths and then demands for action. Now, the results are myriad; in the book, the result is the death of a child.
This is well written and haunting, a good reminder of where we've been and what we need to avoid
It's the story of the murder of a man, the pursuit of another, a lynching, and the aftermath. Mostly, though, it's the story of fear. The people in the Washington community are scared of all people, both First Nation and immigrant, and their fear is easily manipulated by those who have things to gain (or things to lose) if the fear were to be replaced by reason.
In some ways, this is also the story of manipulation and of truth. The beginning of the book is a little like listening to a "Tea Party" from 1884, with oft-repeated claims becoming truths and then demands for action. Now, the results are myriad; in the book, the result is the death of a child.
This is well written and haunting, a good reminder of where we've been and what we need to avoid
October 29, 2024
Language - R (31 swears, 0 "f"), Sexual Content - PG; Violence - PG
At first, George is ecstatic to be a part of avenging Mr. Bell's death and being treated like a man. Soon after the initial thrill, though, being in a mob turns out not to be as fun as he thought. Now with doubts plaguing his thought, George digs deeper to discover the truth behind the murder and finds himself in the grey area between right and wrong.
I wasn't too keen about reading a book with death in the title, but it turned out better than I thought. This book illustrates how much of a struggle it is to discover right and wrong for one's self, which is becoming a lost art. I also appreciate the ending because it isn't an unhappy ending, but is didn't make everything magically get better--much like life. The realistic-ness of this book is what makes it a good read.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
At first, George is ecstatic to be a part of avenging Mr. Bell's death and being treated like a man. Soon after the initial thrill, though, being in a mob turns out not to be as fun as he thought. Now with doubts plaguing his thought, George digs deeper to discover the truth behind the murder and finds himself in the grey area between right and wrong.
I wasn't too keen about reading a book with death in the title, but it turned out better than I thought. This book illustrates how much of a struggle it is to discover right and wrong for one's self, which is becoming a lost art. I also appreciate the ending because it isn't an unhappy ending, but is didn't make everything magically get better--much like life. The realistic-ness of this book is what makes it a good read.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
March 3, 2015
Un homme a été brutalisé et tué dans sa maison et c'est un jeune indien qui est accusé du crime, sans autre forme de procès. Un groupe d'autodéfense décide de faire sa propre justice et le pend à un arbre.
Choqué par cette flambée de violence, George Gillies, le narrateur, va être pris de remords et va chercher la vérité, au risque de plonger sa famille et lui dans une situation très délicate.
Le roman est construit comme une intrigue policière qu'on suit avec excitation, mais propose aussi une véritable réflexion sur le racisme, l'injustice et la rédemption.
Tirée d'une histoire vraie, qui s'est déroulée au Canada en 1884, la lecture n'en est que plus passionnante et digne d'intérêt. On se sent fébrile, tant l'atmosphère à Nooksack est à couteaux tirés. L'immersion est totale, franchement réussie.
Choqué par cette flambée de violence, George Gillies, le narrateur, va être pris de remords et va chercher la vérité, au risque de plonger sa famille et lui dans une situation très délicate.
Le roman est construit comme une intrigue policière qu'on suit avec excitation, mais propose aussi une véritable réflexion sur le racisme, l'injustice et la rédemption.
Tirée d'une histoire vraie, qui s'est déroulée au Canada en 1884, la lecture n'en est que plus passionnante et digne d'intérêt. On se sent fébrile, tant l'atmosphère à Nooksack est à couteaux tirés. L'immersion est totale, franchement réussie.
May 10, 2014
Great story, based on a true event, set in WA state before statehood. Told from the point of few of the oldest boy of six children in a hardworking mill owner's family. When a neighbor is murdered many of the townsmen cast blame on a local Indian boy who was seen near his cabin. The posse finds and lynches him. George Gillies has doubts about the justice of this act and, the more he learns, feels the need to set things right. His voice rings true and describes the difficulty of making unpopular decisions that will affect your neighbors in a close knit society.
tags: YA historical fiction, Washington Territory, Nooksack River, Bellingham, pioneers, Native Americans, American-Indian relations, murder, coming-of-age, integrity, frontier law
tags: YA historical fiction, Washington Territory, Nooksack River, Bellingham, pioneers, Native Americans, American-Indian relations, murder, coming-of-age, integrity, frontier law
May 23, 2014
This book is a bit slow to start, and feels contrived in the early stages as the details around the historical lynching are played out.
But after the lynching, the book becomes intense and involving. Each character is caught between the truth and their involvement in the posse (either as an active participant, passive participant, or with knowledge even if they did not go to the hanging)
It is astonishing how Elizabeth Stuart pulls out how strongly a group behavior, like a lynching, blocks the truth from ever being told out loud. Everybody knows who the bad guys are - and they even discuss the names and their motives\involvement, but it is those few trying to break ranks from the silence who are ostracized.
Fascinating.
But after the lynching, the book becomes intense and involving. Each character is caught between the truth and their involvement in the posse (either as an active participant, passive participant, or with knowledge even if they did not go to the hanging)
It is astonishing how Elizabeth Stuart pulls out how strongly a group behavior, like a lynching, blocks the truth from ever being told out loud. Everybody knows who the bad guys are - and they even discuss the names and their motives\involvement, but it is those few trying to break ranks from the silence who are ostracized.
Fascinating.
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April 30, 2015The lynching of Louie Sam is about the one lynching that occurred in Canada in the late 1800s. Louie Same was a Native American boy who was accused of murdering Mr. Bell. I thought this book was excellent. The story follows the events that happen through the point of view of George. You really see how George grows as a person throughout the story. It really keeps you interested in what is going to happen next and has a good lesson for the reader. After reading this it really opens your eyes about the idea of just following the crowd and not doing what you believe is right. This could easily be used in a classroom to show how racism affected people back in this time period, and to get students to express their own opinions instead of just following the “mob mentality”.
December 8, 2012
Powerful story of injustice when Louis Sam a 14 year old native boy is hung by a lunch mob for the murder of James Bell. The Americans cross the Washington- British Columbia border and hang the young Native boy. George Gillies , narrates the story and tries to find evidence to show who the real murderer was. Along with George as a reader you hope justice will prevail but you realize what a terrible tragedy happened. The Gillies family is isolated for trying to find justice. Students will hopefully learn that conclusions should be based on evidence, not preconceived notions and avoiding rushing to make a judgment.
March 17, 2013
The title refers to the only recorded lynching on Canadian soil, and takes place very early in the novel, soon after teen George Gillies and his siblings discover a murdered man in their village in the Washington Territory in 1884. To judge from the Afterward, the novel hews remarkably close to the historical record and weaves a classic coming of age narrative of an individual in conflict with his society, a la California Blue or a beautiful picture book my Aunt Mary created for my birthday one year, Peter Becomes a Person.
June 7, 2014
Based on an apparent true story this tale enters the dark world of racism in both Canada and the US. The tale is told from a child's point of view and demonstrates that while many feel the horror of racism, they are powerless against it. The cunning and corruption in this novel are truly scary. You can't help but hate adults almost in general while reading this novel, which pulls you into the voiceless horror of children trying to will change the world.
June 30, 2014
Book Review originally published here: http://www.iheartreading.net/mini-rev...
The book is based upon a true story, which makes it more intriguing, and sad too. While I found Louie Sam an interesting character, and I enjoyed getting to know his world and customs, I wasn’t to impressed with the writing. Could’ve been better. The ending was dissapointing and provided little closure.
The book is based upon a true story, which makes it more intriguing, and sad too. While I found Louie Sam an interesting character, and I enjoyed getting to know his world and customs, I wasn’t to impressed with the writing. Could’ve been better. The ending was dissapointing and provided little closure.
September 29, 2012
I received a copy of The Lynching of Louie Sam by Elizabeth Stewart from NetGalley to review. Based on actual events, this fictionalized account put me in mind of a Mark Twain novel. The characters were richly drawn and the storyline tight. I believe it gave an accurate feel of the prejudice that existed at that time. It was an informative and enjoyable read. An excellent YA novel.
July 14, 2013
A clear and unsettling picture of racism in the late 1800's. Stewart did an excellent job at creating a likeable narrator and one that the reader could "cheer" for. The pace was quick and I found myself wanting to read more. The only suggestion would be a bit more character development and some help as a reader in keeping all of the "key players" straight.
March 5, 2014
Fine mystery for teens focusing on the lynching of an Indigenous teen in British Columbia in 1884 by a group of vigilantes from Washington - Stewart does an excellent job at not only giving readers a sense of the racism that was so deeply embedded in the minds of frontiersmen but balances this with portraits of First Nations characters who clearly are not stereotypical - a moving novel indeed
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