jaysbookishthoughts's review against another edition
5.0
The Barren Grounds by David Alexander Robertson is a captivating middle-grade novel that masterfully weaves together Indigenous mythology, history, and contemporary issues in a way that is both informative and engaging.
The story follows two Indigenous siblings, Morgan and Eli, who are placed in a group home after the death of their mother. While exploring the woods near their new home, they discover a portal that transports them to a magical world known as the Barren Grounds. There, they encounter a variety of Indigenous creatures and embark on a quest to save the land from a dangerous force that threatens its balance.
Robertson's writing is both vivid and accessible, with a clear passion for Indigenous storytelling evident throughout. The characters are well-developed, with Morgan and Eli serving as relatable and engaging protagonists. The themes of loss, identity, and the importance of preserving Indigenous culture are handled with sensitivity and nuance, making this book an excellent choice for young readers looking to expand their understanding of Indigenous experiences.
One of the standout elements of The Barren Grounds is its incorporation of Indigenous mythology and history. Robertson seamlessly integrates traditional stories and beliefs into the narrative, providing readers with a rich understanding of Indigenous culture and worldview. Additionally, the book touches on important contemporary issues facing Indigenous communities, such as the effects of colonialism and the importance of land stewardship.
Overall, The Barren Grounds is a thought-provoking and entertaining read that will appeal to a wide range of readers. Robertson's storytelling is both engaging and informative, making this book an excellent choice for anyone looking to learn more about Indigenous experiences and culture.
The story follows two Indigenous siblings, Morgan and Eli, who are placed in a group home after the death of their mother. While exploring the woods near their new home, they discover a portal that transports them to a magical world known as the Barren Grounds. There, they encounter a variety of Indigenous creatures and embark on a quest to save the land from a dangerous force that threatens its balance.
Robertson's writing is both vivid and accessible, with a clear passion for Indigenous storytelling evident throughout. The characters are well-developed, with Morgan and Eli serving as relatable and engaging protagonists. The themes of loss, identity, and the importance of preserving Indigenous culture are handled with sensitivity and nuance, making this book an excellent choice for young readers looking to expand their understanding of Indigenous experiences.
One of the standout elements of The Barren Grounds is its incorporation of Indigenous mythology and history. Robertson seamlessly integrates traditional stories and beliefs into the narrative, providing readers with a rich understanding of Indigenous culture and worldview. Additionally, the book touches on important contemporary issues facing Indigenous communities, such as the effects of colonialism and the importance of land stewardship.
Overall, The Barren Grounds is a thought-provoking and entertaining read that will appeal to a wide range of readers. Robertson's storytelling is both engaging and informative, making this book an excellent choice for anyone looking to learn more about Indigenous experiences and culture.
nspekkers's review
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
evaosterlee's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
mcoenraad's review
adventurous
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
5.0
mrslyonslibrary's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
womanon's review against another edition
2.0
I so wished I loved it, but I just couldn't get into it, no matter how hard I tried.
sqwaytalqs's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
hannely's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
irmelsa's review against another edition
4.0
I really enjoyed this read despite a few things that bothered me. I thought the prose was too simple, but that's subjective. I also felt that the animal beings in Aski spoke much too modern and used phrasings that didn't make sense outside of the human world.