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North America's Forgotten Past #10
People of the Masks
The archaeologists/authors continue to entertain an avid international audience with their rousing historical epic of adventure, triumph, and heartbreak of the pre-Columbian peoples who struggled to make this great continent their home.
580 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 15, 1998
53 people are currently reading
1576 people want to read
About the author
Kathleen O'Neal Gear
137 books711 followersMy professional life began in the dark basement of the Museum of Cultural History in Los Angeles, where I was cataloguing three-hundred-year-old Guatemalan saint carvings. I quit this fascinating job and moved to Wyoming to work for the U.S. Department of the Interior as a historian and archaeologist. When I finally understood the error of my ways I moved to Wyoming and started writing books. Since then, I've authored or co-authored 54 novels and around 200 non-fiction publications.
I love writing. And buffalo. And hiking the wilds of Wyoming's backcountry.
I'm married (until he comes to his senses) to W. Michael Gear, the novelist and my co-author, and we live at the edge of the Wind River Indian Reservation in the Owl Creek mountains of Wyoming. We're contented watching buffalo and writing books.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/kathle...
I love writing. And buffalo. And hiking the wilds of Wyoming's backcountry.
I'm married (until he comes to his senses) to W. Michael Gear, the novelist and my co-author, and we live at the edge of the Wind River Indian Reservation in the Owl Creek mountains of Wyoming. We're contented watching buffalo and writing books.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/kathle...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
March 2, 2014
I feel that this tenth book of The First North Americans series is actually one of the better ones. And, like most of the books in the series, you don't even have to read it in order, it can be a stand-alone.
Rumbler was born a power child. Which makes him very special. So special, in fact, that his entire village is slaughtered so he can be obtained. But when he arrives at his captors, they accuse him of terrible things and sentence him to death. Only two people want to see him live, one a young girl named Wren who has already seen too much death. She frees him, and together they escape, but they have numerous warriors after them, and no where safe to run.
Wren is the best character in this book. She is brave, knows the difference between right and wrong, and she is selfless. Pretty good for someone who hasn't even made it into her teens yet. Rumbler, despite being a main character, is not nearly as well developed. He serves more as a prop for people to fight over and Wren to take care of. However, his grandparents are interesting at least. I enjoyed their squabbles and the way they put aside their animosity to try to rescue him. And the there are the bad guys. I often wonder in these books why so many of them have to be absolutely psycho and erratic in their actions. Surely there are some smart, sane bad guys out there they could use. But it doesn't really appear that happens too much in this series. Jumping Badger is no different, he is completely out of his mind and it's a wonder he is able to lead at all.
There is a lot of death in this book. It seems to be a theme actually. But the main theme of this book is about the chase. You have Wren and Rumbler fleeing, and everyone pursuing them whether it's for good or bad intentions. But the chase never got boring. The pace moved quick enough that you were just anxiously waiting to see what would happen to them and where the final showdown would be. And let's face it, you wanted to know what the madman Jumping Badger would do. As a side story, there is a little bit of rekindling love between divorced people, but it was definitely a secondary plot to the book. Although I think I actually liked that part of the book more than the main, it's was refreshing to see people overcoming their problems.
This series is massive, and the writing styles definitely seem to differ between books. But I do think they are improving as the series goes on.
People of the Masks
Copyright 1998
548 pages
Review by M. Reynard 2014
More of my reviews can be found at www.ifithaswords.blogspot.com
Rumbler was born a power child. Which makes him very special. So special, in fact, that his entire village is slaughtered so he can be obtained. But when he arrives at his captors, they accuse him of terrible things and sentence him to death. Only two people want to see him live, one a young girl named Wren who has already seen too much death. She frees him, and together they escape, but they have numerous warriors after them, and no where safe to run.
Wren is the best character in this book. She is brave, knows the difference between right and wrong, and she is selfless. Pretty good for someone who hasn't even made it into her teens yet. Rumbler, despite being a main character, is not nearly as well developed. He serves more as a prop for people to fight over and Wren to take care of. However, his grandparents are interesting at least. I enjoyed their squabbles and the way they put aside their animosity to try to rescue him. And the there are the bad guys. I often wonder in these books why so many of them have to be absolutely psycho and erratic in their actions. Surely there are some smart, sane bad guys out there they could use. But it doesn't really appear that happens too much in this series. Jumping Badger is no different, he is completely out of his mind and it's a wonder he is able to lead at all.
There is a lot of death in this book. It seems to be a theme actually. But the main theme of this book is about the chase. You have Wren and Rumbler fleeing, and everyone pursuing them whether it's for good or bad intentions. But the chase never got boring. The pace moved quick enough that you were just anxiously waiting to see what would happen to them and where the final showdown would be. And let's face it, you wanted to know what the madman Jumping Badger would do. As a side story, there is a little bit of rekindling love between divorced people, but it was definitely a secondary plot to the book. Although I think I actually liked that part of the book more than the main, it's was refreshing to see people overcoming their problems.
This series is massive, and the writing styles definitely seem to differ between books. But I do think they are improving as the series goes on.
People of the Masks
Copyright 1998
548 pages
Review by M. Reynard 2014
More of my reviews can be found at www.ifithaswords.blogspot.com
July 16, 2017
It is very easy to see the First Americans series as a bit formulaic sometimes - there is nearly always an evil psychopath with ardent followers, a young (gentle) male "mystic" with great power lying within him, a wise old sage, a sceptical tribe, and a heroic young woman. All you have to do is change the setting and the time of year and you have the gist of the story. "People of the Masks" is no exception to this rule yet, as always, the Gears manage to make the story interesting, even quite gripping at times. I often find it very hard to put the books down. I dislike the implication that communication with a spirit world and mighty beings/gods is (and was) a common event at ANY time but, occasionally, the Gears manage to just hint that this is actually just some "interpretation" of psychosis or self-inflicted hardship. Phew! I'd hate to be suckered into some fantasy novel rather than "historical" fiction.
April 14, 2011
This is the 8th book I’ve read in the series and I’ve enjoyed them all. I very much appreciate that the authors attempt to stay close to fact as possible using historical, archeological and anthropological findings as we understand them. It is certainly fiction, entertaining, but also provides a glimpse of how Native Peoples lived. As I read this particular I thought it would make a great movie. Suspenseful all the way through.
September 25, 2014
The Gears, a husband and wife writing team who are both professional archaeologists/anthropologists, have produced an extended series of these “People” books, which tell stories of the pre-Columbian peoples of North America, ranging all over the continent as well as different points in a history that spans millennia, from the arrival of the first humans on the continent to just before the age of European colonialism. The books do not need to be read in order.
People of the Masks tells the story of Rumbler, a young boy who sees his entire village massacred and is himself taken into slavery because of his supposed supernatural powers. He manages to escape his captors, and the rest of the book details his flight and his pursuit—both by his erstwhile captors and by distant relatives who wish to protect him. Each character, in typical Gear fashion, is painstakingly and believably rendered, making this a complex story that builds to a satisfying climax and resolution. I found myself cheering for Rumbler and his friends, characters I grew to love.
I deeply appreciate the Gears’ “People” series. While of necessity fiction, each book is based on detailed academic research. The settings and peoples are always realistically drawn, even if the books contain a few mystical elements. The entire series is a needed corrective to the Eurocentric view of history most of us were taught in the West, which virtually ignores North America until the arrival of the colonists. This book is a special treat in this regard, as the epilogue neatly situates the story within the wider context of world events without taking away from the unique history of its main subjects. To a student of history, this ending is a delightful surprise. I highly recommend all the “People” books, but this one may be one of my favorites.
People of the Masks tells the story of Rumbler, a young boy who sees his entire village massacred and is himself taken into slavery because of his supposed supernatural powers. He manages to escape his captors, and the rest of the book details his flight and his pursuit—both by his erstwhile captors and by distant relatives who wish to protect him. Each character, in typical Gear fashion, is painstakingly and believably rendered, making this a complex story that builds to a satisfying climax and resolution. I found myself cheering for Rumbler and his friends, characters I grew to love.
I deeply appreciate the Gears’ “People” series. While of necessity fiction, each book is based on detailed academic research. The settings and peoples are always realistically drawn, even if the books contain a few mystical elements. The entire series is a needed corrective to the Eurocentric view of history most of us were taught in the West, which virtually ignores North America until the arrival of the colonists. This book is a special treat in this regard, as the epilogue neatly situates the story within the wider context of world events without taking away from the unique history of its main subjects. To a student of history, this ending is a delightful surprise. I highly recommend all the “People” books, but this one may be one of my favorites.
August 3, 2016
This takes place in the Lake Erie-Lake Ontario region with the Iroquois about 800 AD.
The prologue present story is about Maureen Cole: a Seneca physical anthropologist who’s husband recently died. A friend of hers asks her come take a look at a new digsite where she meets Dusty Stewart who’s in charge of the digsite. At first they butt heads, but I think they’re perfect for each other.
The main story begins with Silver Sparrow, elder of Earth Thunderer Village trying to warn Paint Rock village that Jumping Badger and the Walksalong village is going to attack and steal Rumbler, the False Face Child: a dwarf who has special powers, but they don’t believe him.
Rumbler is kidnapped and his village wiped out. From then on the story is basically how Walksalong village decide they made a mistake and try to kill Rumbler to remove a curse, but he is rescued by 12-yr-old Wren. They are chased by two groups: Wren’s uncle, who later is joined by Dust Moon and Sparrow, Rumbler’s grandparents. The second group is Jumping Badger with 20 Walksalong warriors intending to kill them all. Jumping Badger goes mad. He is convinced that Dust has placed a curse on him and if he kills Rumbler he’ll be okay.
It’s interesting how most of these books involve one or two parties: the bad guys and/or good guys chasing one or two weaker good guys. Blue Raven, Dust Moon and Elk Ivory are the voices of reason in this one and three of favorite characters along with Wren.
I like the mention of the different herbal uses: Papaw to ease pain, Yew for fevers, etc. And there are alot of good and happy moments when the bad guys are stopped and the families and villages come together in peace. One thing though: if these are supposed to be people of the masks, then why is the use of masks mentioned so little without a whole lot explanation about how it fits into the story.
But I cringe over the cruelty done to those that other’s ‘perceive’ to have done something wrong and during the attacks on other villages, though I know that what happened and still does in some areas of the world. We really haven’t advanced much through the centuries.
Fave scenes: Lamedeer’s last stand in the cave, Wren and Rambler’s time in the oak tree cave and the storm.
The prologue present story is about Maureen Cole: a Seneca physical anthropologist who’s husband recently died. A friend of hers asks her come take a look at a new digsite where she meets Dusty Stewart who’s in charge of the digsite. At first they butt heads, but I think they’re perfect for each other.
The main story begins with Silver Sparrow, elder of Earth Thunderer Village trying to warn Paint Rock village that Jumping Badger and the Walksalong village is going to attack and steal Rumbler, the False Face Child: a dwarf who has special powers, but they don’t believe him.
Rumbler is kidnapped and his village wiped out. From then on the story is basically how Walksalong village decide they made a mistake and try to kill Rumbler to remove a curse, but he is rescued by 12-yr-old Wren. They are chased by two groups: Wren’s uncle, who later is joined by Dust Moon and Sparrow, Rumbler’s grandparents. The second group is Jumping Badger with 20 Walksalong warriors intending to kill them all. Jumping Badger goes mad. He is convinced that Dust has placed a curse on him and if he kills Rumbler he’ll be okay.
It’s interesting how most of these books involve one or two parties: the bad guys and/or good guys chasing one or two weaker good guys. Blue Raven, Dust Moon and Elk Ivory are the voices of reason in this one and three of favorite characters along with Wren.
I like the mention of the different herbal uses: Papaw to ease pain, Yew for fevers, etc. And there are alot of good and happy moments when the bad guys are stopped and the families and villages come together in peace. One thing though: if these are supposed to be people of the masks, then why is the use of masks mentioned so little without a whole lot explanation about how it fits into the story.
But I cringe over the cruelty done to those that other’s ‘perceive’ to have done something wrong and during the attacks on other villages, though I know that what happened and still does in some areas of the world. We really haven’t advanced much through the centuries.
Fave scenes: Lamedeer’s last stand in the cave, Wren and Rambler’s time in the oak tree cave and the storm.
February 9, 2014
Once again the Gears have brought us back to a time in the beginning, where, once again power is loose. In the ancient forests of modern day Ontario and New York, is Painted Rocks Village, where a young boy lives. This boy is called the False Face Child by those who fear him but goes by the name Rumbler among friends and family.
In Walksalong village, Jumping Badger, their war leader has convinced the matrons to attack Rumbler’s village and kidnap him in order to use his power for their own, despite Blue Raven and his niece Little Wren casting their votes against the raid.
Jumping Badger succeeds in the raid but in the process starts to lose his sanity and souls. Rumbler is brought to Walksalong Village but it doesn’t bode well for him. Two of his captors and a matron die mysteriously upon his arrival, casting a dark shadow on his presence. The village then decides that the boy is evil and has brought bad luck to the village and afraid that others will die, they condemn him to death. Blue Raven and Wren take pity on him and offer what little comfort they can. Blue Raven is ordered to sit vigil on the death hill for him. Unexpectedly Wren saves Rumbler and together they set off through the forest. Jumping Badger learns of the boy’s disappearance and mounts a search party to kill the boy and bring Wren back for punishment, despite the voice he hears in his head, haunting him.
As the two children flee for their lives, they decide they must turn to Rumbler’s father for support and safety. His father is whispered to be a forest spirit known as The Disowned. Fighting the snow, disagreeing nations and the unknown, the children continue on. Read on as the Gears weave a tale through the winding paths and trails to see if the children survive or if Jumping Badger tracks them down, sealing their fates.
In Walksalong village, Jumping Badger, their war leader has convinced the matrons to attack Rumbler’s village and kidnap him in order to use his power for their own, despite Blue Raven and his niece Little Wren casting their votes against the raid.
Jumping Badger succeeds in the raid but in the process starts to lose his sanity and souls. Rumbler is brought to Walksalong Village but it doesn’t bode well for him. Two of his captors and a matron die mysteriously upon his arrival, casting a dark shadow on his presence. The village then decides that the boy is evil and has brought bad luck to the village and afraid that others will die, they condemn him to death. Blue Raven and Wren take pity on him and offer what little comfort they can. Blue Raven is ordered to sit vigil on the death hill for him. Unexpectedly Wren saves Rumbler and together they set off through the forest. Jumping Badger learns of the boy’s disappearance and mounts a search party to kill the boy and bring Wren back for punishment, despite the voice he hears in his head, haunting him.
As the two children flee for their lives, they decide they must turn to Rumbler’s father for support and safety. His father is whispered to be a forest spirit known as The Disowned. Fighting the snow, disagreeing nations and the unknown, the children continue on. Read on as the Gears weave a tale through the winding paths and trails to see if the children survive or if Jumping Badger tracks them down, sealing their fates.
January 28, 2010
I have not been able to put this series down since I first found it a few months ago. It is written by a husband and wife who are both Archaeologists. They have written a series of books called The First North Americans, as well as each writing their own individual books. Though the stories are mainly fictional, they are supplemented by real archaeological and historical findings and facts. Very intense at moments and really sad at others, overall, an excellent read.
February 1, 2010
I have not been able to put this series down since I first found it a few months ago. It is written by a husband and wife who are both Archaeologists. They have written a series of books called The First North Americans, as well as each writing their own individual books. Though the stories are mainly fictional, they are supplemented by real archaeological and historical findings and facts. Very intense at moments and really sad at others, overall, an excellent read.
February 21, 2015
This must me my 22nd book I've read from the People series. It's written by a husband and wife team, both are Archaeologists.
The People series cover the first North Americans, this one taking place around Ontario and Newfoundland. You don't have to read the books in order, each one tells it's own story.
I loved this story, as I have all the others. This one covers more "spirits" and spirit helpers, etc. compared to the others :D
The People series cover the first North Americans, this one taking place around Ontario and Newfoundland. You don't have to read the books in order, each one tells it's own story.
I loved this story, as I have all the others. This one covers more "spirits" and spirit helpers, etc. compared to the others :D
January 14, 2012
I dived into the middle of this series. I found it to be intriguing and plan on reading more.
January 21, 2020
An Exceptional Story, Masterfully written
I first read this, when I’d rescued a kitten. He was 9 days old.. his fate, was in my hands. I named him Rumbler. He turns 17, on February 3, 2020.
This book gave me chills. Made me believe in doing right, even if you stand alone.
The fragile hope, of Peace, for a better future, for all.
I admit, some scenes, sent chills straight through me.
No one, has ever raised goosebumps, besides, Stephen King and the Gears.
Over 17 years, I e read this, at least 10 times. Each and every time, i find a new facet, that simply blows my mind.
Recommend without any hesitation.
I first read this, when I’d rescued a kitten. He was 9 days old.. his fate, was in my hands. I named him Rumbler. He turns 17, on February 3, 2020.
This book gave me chills. Made me believe in doing right, even if you stand alone.
The fragile hope, of Peace, for a better future, for all.
I admit, some scenes, sent chills straight through me.
No one, has ever raised goosebumps, besides, Stephen King and the Gears.
Over 17 years, I e read this, at least 10 times. Each and every time, i find a new facet, that simply blows my mind.
Recommend without any hesitation.
October 3, 2022
All of this series I have read so far is well written to an extent. The forwards are all the same: some archeologist has to fight the government to preserve artifacts. They never win.
The stories are good, strong, well written characters. Good plots and sub plots.
However, it is formulaic writing. Always a young, innocent protagonist, who is being pushed by "Power". Then there is the kindly old spirit guy who does his best to help.
Has to be an evil, half deranged antagonist too.
The Gears don't shy away from the truth though. They show the good, the bad, and the ugly of native American culture.
The stories are good, strong, well written characters. Good plots and sub plots.
However, it is formulaic writing. Always a young, innocent protagonist, who is being pushed by "Power". Then there is the kindly old spirit guy who does his best to help.
Has to be an evil, half deranged antagonist too.
The Gears don't shy away from the truth though. They show the good, the bad, and the ugly of native American culture.
September 30, 2019
The Seer
This is one of the best books that I have read about North America's Forgotten past. The legion was that a child of power would be born to the Turtle People of the Iroquois nation. He was know as Rumbler, was only a child but had amazing powers. He was captured by the Bear people, to be used him as a spiritual weapon, but was rescued by a young girl named Wren and the story is about their flight from the cruel War Leader of the Bear people who seeks to kill the Spirit child. Their only hope is to find Rumbler's father who will save them.
This is one of the best books that I have read about North America's Forgotten past. The legion was that a child of power would be born to the Turtle People of the Iroquois nation. He was know as Rumbler, was only a child but had amazing powers. He was captured by the Bear people, to be used him as a spiritual weapon, but was rescued by a young girl named Wren and the story is about their flight from the cruel War Leader of the Bear people who seeks to kill the Spirit child. Their only hope is to find Rumbler's father who will save them.
June 16, 2019
Review of 'People of the Masks:: A Novel of North America 's Forgotten Past' by John Lietzke
This is the tenth book I have read about native early North Americans. I thought it was a good story so I gave the book five stars. I also thought the story did not have as much action as previous stories I have read about early native Americans.
This is the tenth book I have read about native early North Americans. I thought it was a good story so I gave the book five stars. I also thought the story did not have as much action as previous stories I have read about early native Americans.
January 13, 2020
Interesting story with lovable young characters. This was a quick read over just a couple of days. Again, the book could use a good editor, but I didn't find the errors as glaring in this book as People of the Owl.
November 29, 2025
Really enjoyed the characters and the description of this part of Canada. Especially liked the historical notes about this time period and the parts that are included in the story. Did not know this was a series. I will have to look into some of the others.
June 30, 2017
Riveting
From the beginning I hated to put this book down until I finished it!! Looking forward to next in the series
From the beginning I hated to put this book down until I finished it!! Looking forward to next in the series
October 29, 2017
I am stroke but read rumble and girl 12 years him 10 years run very good
December 14, 2017
Rumbler's story will long be a hallmark adventure of this series. Bravo!
June 3, 2020
Very good story. Would appreciate it more without the social justice messages.
November 20, 2020
Worth reading.
Read
June 23, 2021Excellent read
July 6, 2023
Good book
July 30, 2016
Review People of the Masks (spoilers)
by W. Michael Gear and Kathleen O’Neal Gear
" The [Indian] leaders influence by their character alone; they follow, or not as they please, him whose character for wisdom or war they have the highest opinion... every man, with them is a perfectly free to follow his own inclinations. But if, in doing this, he violates the rights of another, if in the case be slight, he is punished by the disesteem of society or as we say, public opinion; if serious, he is tomahawked as a serious enemy" This book looks at the characteristic of the Iroquoian society, before the advent of the Iroquoian confederacy coincidentally just before the arrival of the Viking, Leaf Erikson. The world of the Iroquoian people before the confederacy had found themselves in a warring society as each group of people battle each other all just subsisting between battles on little hope and safety. But through the actions of two orphan children who despite cultural and political pressure bring the Turtle clans and the Bear clans together. They have both lost their parents tragically, because of accidents and warfare. When Little Wren’s people attempt to capture safety by stealing the False Face Child, Rambler from the Turtle clan they begin an epic series of events that nearly bring the Walks along village to the brink of destruction. Not only tragedy of warfare but natural disasters seems to plague the people of Walks along. In fear and desperation the clan Matrons’ decides to destroy the child. This is too much for the still grieving Wren who steals the child from the brink of death, only to start a journey or great strength, intelligence and sacrifice that will bring about a resolution of the problems that plague the Iroquoian society.
Character List
People of the Masks, Iroquois
Maureen Cole: thirty-five year old modern physical anthropologist, Long straight hair shone a glossy black hair. She has traditional aquiline features, straight nose, dark eyes, full lips, a half-blooded Seneca.
Dusty Stewart: William Stewart, fluent in Navajo, Hopi,Zuni, Apache, and Arapaho. Archaeologist.
Rumbler: though the Elders call him False Face Child, the name the prophets gave him when they foretold the birth of this power child,Dwarf Boy, Born at Paint Rock Village.
Briar-of-the-lake: mother of Rumbler, young mother of the Paint Rock Village.
BloodyBoy: spirit helper of Silver Sparrow, that frightens Little Wren and Rumbler.
Lamedeer: warleader of the Paint Rock Village gave his life to protect the last member of his people.
Red Pipe: Elder of the Paint Rock Village.
Jumping Badger: the war leader of the Walks along village,who murders the boy's mother and burns their village, Paint Rock to the ground.He goes insane after the raid.
Little Wren: a twelve year old child of the Walks along village, orphan, lives with her Grandmother and Uncle, Blue Raven
Trickster: Little Wren’s dog had two black spots on his forehead, which looked like an extra pair of eyes.
Blue Raven: An elder of the Walks along village, never married because he loves a close relative and cannot marry her.
Elk Ivory: warrior of the Walks along village loves BlueRaven, helps the children and begins the peace.
Silver Sparrow: Elder of the Earth Thunderer Village:Dreamer, Grandfather of Rumbler.
Matron Moon Dust: wife of Silver Sparrow, best friend of Briar, and grandmother of Rumbler.
Cornhusk: Trader, gave advice to Jumping Badger, then traded his story across the nations unintentionally brought Spotted Frog and his people to the aid of the children.
Red Flint: the bad twin, Raven hunter
Sky-Holder: the godson, Wolf Dreamer
Power object: silver gorget shaped like a wolf, a silver gorget carved with the image of the a tree.
by W. Michael Gear and Kathleen O’Neal Gear
" The [Indian] leaders influence by their character alone; they follow, or not as they please, him whose character for wisdom or war they have the highest opinion... every man, with them is a perfectly free to follow his own inclinations. But if, in doing this, he violates the rights of another, if in the case be slight, he is punished by the disesteem of society or as we say, public opinion; if serious, he is tomahawked as a serious enemy" This book looks at the characteristic of the Iroquoian society, before the advent of the Iroquoian confederacy coincidentally just before the arrival of the Viking, Leaf Erikson. The world of the Iroquoian people before the confederacy had found themselves in a warring society as each group of people battle each other all just subsisting between battles on little hope and safety. But through the actions of two orphan children who despite cultural and political pressure bring the Turtle clans and the Bear clans together. They have both lost their parents tragically, because of accidents and warfare. When Little Wren’s people attempt to capture safety by stealing the False Face Child, Rambler from the Turtle clan they begin an epic series of events that nearly bring the Walks along village to the brink of destruction. Not only tragedy of warfare but natural disasters seems to plague the people of Walks along. In fear and desperation the clan Matrons’ decides to destroy the child. This is too much for the still grieving Wren who steals the child from the brink of death, only to start a journey or great strength, intelligence and sacrifice that will bring about a resolution of the problems that plague the Iroquoian society.
Character List
People of the Masks, Iroquois
Maureen Cole: thirty-five year old modern physical anthropologist, Long straight hair shone a glossy black hair. She has traditional aquiline features, straight nose, dark eyes, full lips, a half-blooded Seneca.
Dusty Stewart: William Stewart, fluent in Navajo, Hopi,Zuni, Apache, and Arapaho. Archaeologist.
Rumbler: though the Elders call him False Face Child, the name the prophets gave him when they foretold the birth of this power child,Dwarf Boy, Born at Paint Rock Village.
Briar-of-the-lake: mother of Rumbler, young mother of the Paint Rock Village.
BloodyBoy: spirit helper of Silver Sparrow, that frightens Little Wren and Rumbler.
Lamedeer: warleader of the Paint Rock Village gave his life to protect the last member of his people.
Red Pipe: Elder of the Paint Rock Village.
Jumping Badger: the war leader of the Walks along village,who murders the boy's mother and burns their village, Paint Rock to the ground.He goes insane after the raid.
Little Wren: a twelve year old child of the Walks along village, orphan, lives with her Grandmother and Uncle, Blue Raven
Trickster: Little Wren’s dog had two black spots on his forehead, which looked like an extra pair of eyes.
Blue Raven: An elder of the Walks along village, never married because he loves a close relative and cannot marry her.
Elk Ivory: warrior of the Walks along village loves BlueRaven, helps the children and begins the peace.
Silver Sparrow: Elder of the Earth Thunderer Village:Dreamer, Grandfather of Rumbler.
Matron Moon Dust: wife of Silver Sparrow, best friend of Briar, and grandmother of Rumbler.
Cornhusk: Trader, gave advice to Jumping Badger, then traded his story across the nations unintentionally brought Spotted Frog and his people to the aid of the children.
Red Flint: the bad twin, Raven hunter
Sky-Holder: the godson, Wolf Dreamer
Power object: silver gorget shaped like a wolf, a silver gorget carved with the image of the a tree.
October 26, 2015
I have been a fan of this series by the Gear’s since the very first book, “People of the Wolf”. Their ability to blend the archaeological history of the cultures with fictional plots makes their books compelling. “People of the Masks” is no exception.
Beginning with the present day, a team of archaeologists have unearthed a long buried Iroquois site. Living in the northeastern United States and into southeastern Canada, the Iroquois have a rich and fascinating history. “People of the Masks” is Book Ten of the North America's Forgotten Past series.
Considered to be a seer and a powerful child, Rumbler is born into the Turtle Clan. Known as the False Face Child he is rumored to be the son of a wood spirit. He is a nine year old dwarf child who is the size of a four year old. In an effort to obtain his power, Jumping Badger of the Bear Clan mounts a party that destroys the boy’s village and kidnaps him. However things begin to go wrong almost immediately. Upon returning to their own village Jumping Badger and his war party begin to experience deaths. Eventually the clan matrons and villagers decide the False Face Child must die. However Wren, an orphan girl who lives with her relatives, develops a soft spot for the small child. In an effort to protect him she hatches a plan that will take them on a dangerous journey which could end in death for both of them. Meanwhile Rumbler’s village may have been destroyed but two of his relatives from another clan are determined to save him from execution by the Bear Clan.
The characters and their intense experiences, their determination to survive and do the right thing, are key to the story. Even when pursued by a madman and his frightened but cowardly war party, they struggle against the odds.
This is a stunning exploration of the challenging environments and the cultural beliefs of these early Iroquois. Along with the methods they use to carry on, this novel illustrates the skills necessary to battle weather, wild animals, and hunger.
I couldn’t put this book down as I followed the lives of the characters, fearing for their well being and cheering their successes. It’s a beautiful if somewhat painful story of strength and love set against the vivid landscape of the northeast.
Beginning with the present day, a team of archaeologists have unearthed a long buried Iroquois site. Living in the northeastern United States and into southeastern Canada, the Iroquois have a rich and fascinating history. “People of the Masks” is Book Ten of the North America's Forgotten Past series.
Considered to be a seer and a powerful child, Rumbler is born into the Turtle Clan. Known as the False Face Child he is rumored to be the son of a wood spirit. He is a nine year old dwarf child who is the size of a four year old. In an effort to obtain his power, Jumping Badger of the Bear Clan mounts a party that destroys the boy’s village and kidnaps him. However things begin to go wrong almost immediately. Upon returning to their own village Jumping Badger and his war party begin to experience deaths. Eventually the clan matrons and villagers decide the False Face Child must die. However Wren, an orphan girl who lives with her relatives, develops a soft spot for the small child. In an effort to protect him she hatches a plan that will take them on a dangerous journey which could end in death for both of them. Meanwhile Rumbler’s village may have been destroyed but two of his relatives from another clan are determined to save him from execution by the Bear Clan.
The characters and their intense experiences, their determination to survive and do the right thing, are key to the story. Even when pursued by a madman and his frightened but cowardly war party, they struggle against the odds.
This is a stunning exploration of the challenging environments and the cultural beliefs of these early Iroquois. Along with the methods they use to carry on, this novel illustrates the skills necessary to battle weather, wild animals, and hunger.
I couldn’t put this book down as I followed the lives of the characters, fearing for their well being and cheering their successes. It’s a beautiful if somewhat painful story of strength and love set against the vivid landscape of the northeast.
February 19, 2017
I love all of W. Michael and Kathleen's books!
January 28, 2016
A Little Something for Everyone - humor, heartbreak, horror, and so much more!
I loved the characters in this novel. I loved the relationships between Rumbler and Wren. It was also interesting to see how these two children faced the hardships a prehistoric landscape and politically charged power-struggle presented.
Though the story is very suspenseful, it also has humor in the pages. It is a very entertaining read and I highly recommend it. You don't have to be a historical fiction fan to appreciate this book. There's so much it offers to readers that I wouldn't try to diminish its value by limiting it to one particular genre. If you love reading, then you are such to love this novel!
This book covers the Iroquois Nation, which has been a huge influence on our country's history before it became the United States and in the structure of the government itself. This book does a wonderful job of showing us how our Native American ancestors lived, believed, and helped to shape the world we live in.
I loved the characters in this novel. I loved the relationships between Rumbler and Wren. It was also interesting to see how these two children faced the hardships a prehistoric landscape and politically charged power-struggle presented.
Though the story is very suspenseful, it also has humor in the pages. It is a very entertaining read and I highly recommend it. You don't have to be a historical fiction fan to appreciate this book. There's so much it offers to readers that I wouldn't try to diminish its value by limiting it to one particular genre. If you love reading, then you are such to love this novel!
This book covers the Iroquois Nation, which has been a huge influence on our country's history before it became the United States and in the structure of the government itself. This book does a wonderful job of showing us how our Native American ancestors lived, believed, and helped to shape the world we live in.
November 30, 2015
The Winter of Crying Rocks, the Moon of Frozen Leaves,
unfolds around a tale of superstition, ambition, jealousy, and madness at the center, with evidence, cooperation, love, and reason intertwined. Set in prehistoric eastern North America sometime before the European invasions, several narrators each tell their parallel story as the action moves from the wholesale slaughter of tribal warfare toward former enemies’ peacemaking in the interest of survival and prosperity. Characters are well-developed, each with a history, clear motives, occasional human confusions, as well as their two souls. Summaries of archeo-anthropological information are clear, but could be more fully integrated into the story. A Prologue connects modern days to the time and place of the story, and the personalities found here foreshadow personalities and relationships in the prehistoric novel and further identify the story setting. The fate of the False-Face Child and Little Wren become entangled to the eventual benefit of all.
unfolds around a tale of superstition, ambition, jealousy, and madness at the center, with evidence, cooperation, love, and reason intertwined. Set in prehistoric eastern North America sometime before the European invasions, several narrators each tell their parallel story as the action moves from the wholesale slaughter of tribal warfare toward former enemies’ peacemaking in the interest of survival and prosperity. Characters are well-developed, each with a history, clear motives, occasional human confusions, as well as their two souls. Summaries of archeo-anthropological information are clear, but could be more fully integrated into the story. A Prologue connects modern days to the time and place of the story, and the personalities found here foreshadow personalities and relationships in the prehistoric novel and further identify the story setting. The fate of the False-Face Child and Little Wren become entangled to the eventual benefit of all.
September 13, 2007
I have not been able to put this book down since I first picked it up a few weeks ago. It is written by a husband and wife who are both Archaeologists who have written a series of books called The First North Americans and although the story is mainly fictional, it is supplemented by real archaeological and historical findings and facts. Very intense at moments and really sad at others, overall, a very good read.
~Alright, now that I have finished this book, I feel like its ending didn't own up to the rest of the book. The ending became overly "romantic" in the gross way that most non-Native scholars or writers or artists portray Natives. Also, the afterward made me not want to pick up any of the other books in the series (eventhough I probably will!) as the authors went off on their own rant and romanticizing of European conquest of the AMericas. If you know me, you know that is one thing I cannot stand!!! Blah, blah, anyway, still a good book ;)
~Alright, now that I have finished this book, I feel like its ending didn't own up to the rest of the book. The ending became overly "romantic" in the gross way that most non-Native scholars or writers or artists portray Natives. Also, the afterward made me not want to pick up any of the other books in the series (eventhough I probably will!) as the authors went off on their own rant and romanticizing of European conquest of the AMericas. If you know me, you know that is one thing I cannot stand!!! Blah, blah, anyway, still a good book ;)
June 7, 2013
The Gears wrote another interesting tale of pre-columbian North American tribal love and hate. The sad, hateful misery is driven by the age-old human failings as the selfish, monsterous bad guy looks for more power in life. As in other of the North American native series, the primary evil character feels justified in some kind of self-righteous thinking that it is OK to commit inhuman acts upon fellow humans. The sub plots are interesting so the reader keeps turning the pages. Also typical to this series is the role of magic and powers of perception by the "good guys". To me, the magical events and premonitions tends to take away from the stories rather than provide benefit. Of interest to me is the dwarf child that is revered and feared in this native american society. A pre-adolescent girl befriends the dwarf child. The young girl's innocence and heroic actions provides a moral compass for some of the adult characters so that they can band together to fight the inhuman forces.
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