Between Book Pages

My journey through the shrouded history of Native America took an unexpected turn with “The People of the Owl.” While my library categorized it as the fifth installment, a quick dive into Goodreads revealed it to be the eleventh. This mix-up, however, only heightened the intrigue—a hidden gem waiting to be unearthed, much like the forgotten past it portrays.

We are transported 4,000 years back in time to the swampy Louisiana bayou that would one day emerge. Here, amidst the murky shadows, unfolds a tale brimming with complexity. Brace yourself for a torrent of jealousy, power struggles, political maneuvering, and the tangled web of human emotions. Deception, hate, and ambition intertwine with the yearning for peace, the quest for justice, and the unwavering bonds of love and sacrifice.

A Tale of Unexpected Leadership and Hidden Depths 

The story hinges on Mud Puppy, a young boy ostracized for his eccentric ways who prefers the solace of nature to the pursuit of status. His life takes a dramatic turn when a jealous clan leader maneuvers Mud Puppy into the role of speaker for the rival Sun Town people. Thrust into a position of power overnight, Mud Puppy, now known as Salamander, inherits not only leadership but also the wives of his deceased brother.

Despite facing prejudice and underestimation, Salamander possesses an inner wisdom that surpasses his years. Dreams and spirit helpers guide Salamander as he navigates the treacherous waters of leadership.

Meanwhile, a young woman named Anhinga harbors a deep-seated desire for revenge. Witnessing the deaths of loved ones at the hands of Salamander’s people, she hatches a plan to infiltrate Sun Town by marrying into the Owl clan, specifically Salamander himself. However, as her plot unfolds, Anhinga finds herself developing genuine affection for the man she swore to destroy.

Torn between vengeance and newfound emotions, Anhinga becomes entangled in a larger struggle where powerful forces, embodied by the Masked Owl and Many-Colored Crow, vie for control of Salamander’s soul. Through dreaming and dancing with the one, he grapples with these conflicting influences, seeking guidance from the spirit world to secure a future for himself, his clan, and his family.

Salamander’s journey from an ostracized boy to a reluctant leader is at the heart of the story. While some might find his rapid growth to maturity slightly unbelievable, it underscores his unique connection to the spirit world and his genuine desire to serve his community. In contrast, the portrayal of his wives as complex individuals with their own agendas adds a layer of realism to the narrative. The “bad guys,” too, are not simple villains but rather people driven by ambition and a thirst for power.

Ultimately, “The People of the Owl” is a captivating tale that transcends a simple coming-of-age story. It delves into the complexities of human nature, explores the power of forgiveness, and sheds light on a fascinating, often-overlooked chapter in North American history. The authors paint a vivid picture of this bygone era, showcasing the complexities of a potentially highly developed civilization’s survival.

A Cast of Compelling Characters

• Mud Puppy/Salamander: An ostracized young man known for his introspective nature and connection to the spirit world. Thrusting into the role of leader after his brother’s death, he grapples with the burden of responsibility while navigating the treacherous world of politics.
• White Bird: The charismatic older brother of Mud Puppy, presumed to be the next speaker for the Sun People. His sudden death by lightning throws the tribe into disarray.
• Wing Heart: The wise elder and leader of the Sun People. She is the mother of White Bird and Mud Puppy.
• Uncle Cloud Heron: The uncle of both White Bird and Mud Puppy, and the former speaker. He is a source of wisdom and guidance for Mud Puppy.
• The Serpent: The revered holy man of the Sun People. He possesses deep spiritual knowledge and offers valuable counsel to Mud Puppy.
• Jaguar Hide: The powerful leader of the Swamp Panther Nation, a rival tribe located south of the Sun People. He harbors animosity towards the Sun People and becomes a potential threat.
• Anhinga: The niece of Jaguar Hide. She is initially driven by vengeance for a past attack on her tribe, but she finds herself entangled in the politics of Sun Town as she is one of the wives of Mud Puppy.
• Night Rain and Pine Drop: The nieces of Dark Hinder, leader of the Snapping Turtle Clan. Both are married to White Bird and later salamander. Through their shared marital duties, they each possess their own agendas and personalities.
• Heron: The first woman to receive dreams, a revered figure who instructs the twins (Masked Owl and Many-Colored Crow) and acts as a guardian of the “One” and the Tree of Life.
• Masked Owl: A spirit guide and potential Owl Dreamer, locked in a contest with Many-Colored Crow for influence over the tribe’s future.
• Many-Colored Crow: The dark twin to the Masked Owl, representing change and a desire to unify the tribes in a way never seen before.

Should you read it?

Absolutely! Here’s why:

• Immersive World building: Prepare to be transported to a bygone era. The vivid descriptions bring the Louisiana bayou to life, complete with the buzzing of mosquitoes and the secrets buried beneath the swamp’s murky depths.
• Intriguing Characters: The story revolves around a compelling cast, from the ostracized yet wise Salamander to the vengeful Anhinga and the power-hungry Jaguar Hide. Each Character’s motivations and complexities weave a rich tapestry.
• Suspenseful Plot: The narrative is driven by political intrigue, hidden agendas, and the struggle for power. As you delve deeper, you’ll find yourself drawn into the mysteries surrounding the ancient city and its inhabitants.
• Exploration of a Lost Culture: This book dives deeper into the daily lives of the people than previous installments. You’ll learn about their clothing, food, and societal structures, enriching your understanding of this forgotten civilization.

A few caveats:

• Pacing: While the story covers a year, it unfolds at a leisurely pace, focusing on Salamander’s journey. If you prefer fast-paced action, this might not be the perfect fit
• Ending: some readers, myself included, find the conclusion underwhelming. However, it doesn’t detract from the overall experience.

Overall, “The People of the Owl” offers a captivating blend of historical fiction, political intrigue, and personal growth. If you’re looking for a story that transports you to a forgotten era and delves into the complexities of human nature, then this book is definitely worth adding to your reading list.

You can check out my reviews of the first four books in the “North America’s Forgotten Past” series here:

“People of the Wolf”, “People of the Fire”, “People of the Earth”, “People of the Sea”