The Arrow Over the Door

BIBLIOGRAPHY

 

Bruchac, Joseph. 2002. The Arrow Over the Door. Ill. by James Watling. New York: Puffin Books. ISBN 0141305711

 

PLOT SUMMARY

 

In 1777, the American colonies are facing conflict in all directions and colonists fear attacks by both the British army and the Indians in the area. The Arrow over the Door tells the story of two young boys who have a meaningful meeting in a Quaker Meetinghouse.

 

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

 

Based on a true story, The Arrow Over the Door tells the story of a gathering between Quakers and an Abenaki Indian scouting party in 1777.  There are two main characters in this story.  Samuel Russell is a thirteen year-old boy living near Saratoga, New York.  Stands Straight is a young Abenaki boy.  The story is told from both of their perspectives, alternating between chapters.  Readers, especially young boys, will be able to relate to both characters.

 

Although the setting of this story is the American colonies, the setting is a minor detail to this story.  The historical context in which this story is placed is much more important.  Readers will benefit if they have a working knowledge of the American Revolution, but it is unnecessary.

 

In addition to telling about American Indian culture, this book also expands on Quaker culture, which is often underrepresented.  It is likely that children will be unfamiliar with Quaker history and this book would be helpful in introducing them to the topic.  Most notably, Bruchac includes accurate dialogue between Quaker characters.  The Quakers use a lot of thees and thous, for example.

 

Despite the Quaker cultural references, this book thoroughly explores American Indian cultural markers.  It is an accurate and respectful piece of fiction.  Near the beginning of the story, Bruchac describes Stands Straight:

 

“Though his trousers and his shirt were the kind that could be seen from Montréal to the Gaspé Peninsula, his long black hair, the brown color of his skin, and the Algonquin features of his handsome face revealed the fact that he was an Indian.  So did the moccasins and the leather pouch decorated with the beaded shape of a rabbit, which hung at his waist” (p. 11).

 

Stands Straight speaks both French and Abenaki, a result of being an altar boy.  This illustrates the French influence on the native population and his historically accuarate. 

 

The simple black and white illustrations by James Watling add to the story.  The illustrations show characters from both cultures in traditional clothing.

 

The Author’s Note at the end of the book adds to the historical accuracy of the story.  In the Author’s Note, Bruchac explains what historians think really happened during this event and he explains his personal connection to the story.

 

Overall, this was an interesting story.  At only 89 pages, it may appeal to reluctant readers, especially boys.

 

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

 

School Library Journal: “With a surprising amount of drama and even suspense, this tale of pacifism triumphant makes a good choice for historical fiction collections.”

 

Booklist: “A truly excellent example of historical fiction for the middle-grade/junior-high audience.”

 

CONNECTIONS

 

Readers who enjoyed The Arrow Over the Door might also enjoy the following books by Joseph Bruchac:

 

Joseph Bruchac. Children of the Longhouse. ISBN 0140385045

 

Joseph Bruchac. March Toward the Thunder. ISBN 0142414468