The Root Cellar

by Joseph Damrell

Ray Karhu leaves an archaeological dig to tend to family matters in the Upper Peninsula. What he finds in his aunt's cabin is a legacy he knew nothing about. Viena, a Karelian emigre, was a shaman keeping the magical tradition of healing and nature worship of the Arctic Finns alive in the north woods. Ray's struggle to accept, understand, and finally embrace this tradition takes him on a wrenching journey of exploration and discovery of the past and the present. Inspired by the Kalevala's mythic images, rhythms, and portends, this story evokes its own brand of magic.

320 pages, Perfect Paperback

First published June 1, 2008

Reviews

[Tim]

I don't remember it being particularly memorable.