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Red Thunder

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RED THUNDER is a memoir of a People, the Schee-tsu-umsh Indians, now called the Coeur d'Alene Tribe in Northern Idaho, USA. The story follows several generations of the tribe from birth to adulthood, old age to death and explores the themes of courage, family, love, tragedy and hope. The author has translated genuine oral histories and incorporated them into the lives of Sun Bear, Rainbow Girl and the tribe of Schee-tsu-umsh Indians. This authentic work displays the rich cultural teachings behind Native American life in a very real and relevant sense that is applicable to our times.

326 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2001

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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
Profile Image for Tessa Stockton.
Author 20 books50 followers
August 14, 2022
Stunning portrayal of a beautiful culture!

I had to savor this novel, as there were so many layers, depths, nuances, and intensities of wisdom, grace, purity, and truth. If all the world practiced the life lessons and noble teachings expressed in this literary work, the world wouldn’t be such a dark place. Written in fiction form, we are privileged to follow multiple generations of the Schi’tsu’umsh, now Coeur d’Alene tribe. Set in the early 1700s, before the appearance of European settlers, we are told the story through one boy as he goes through the seasons of life. Through him, we become especially enrapt with particular characters. I found great inspiration regarding reverence, thankfulness, and appreciation of Kolunsuten (God), nature, animals, and healing in the demonstration of relationships. The relationship values struck me the most, with the honor toward women especially. I’ve longed for these kinds of values. I’d also not had the blessing to know any of my grandparents, so it was emotional for me to imagine these relationships through the portrayals gifted in this book. The display of dedication and love revolving around the elders was beautiful, and honestly, holy. The finale of the novel was amazing; I’d even say anointed by the Holy Spirit.

There are reading guides provided afterward benefitting both adult and student discussion groups.

Intelligently written, spiritually sensitive, and colorfully and cleanly detailed, Red Thunder is suitable for all ages. I recommend taking this meaningful journey among the Schi’tsu’umsh. It will open your heart and your eyes.
Profile Image for Scott Drake.
393 reviews5 followers
October 25, 2016
Thoroughly enjoyed It! What I knew of this culture before reading this book was scant, though I always thought myself as more knowledge than most.

I grew up in the middle of Chief Black Hawk land between the Rock and Mississippi rivers. As a kid, we'd occasionally find an arrow head.

The rhythm of the book varies widely. The storytelling style was crucial to the overall feel of the narrative, in my humble opinion.

This should be read in middle schools.
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