A review by iffer
The Barren Grounds, by David A. Robertson
3.0
This is a solid juvenile fiction/middle grade fiction fantasy book about foster siblings who are transported to another world reflective of Cree stories. I appreciated the indigenous representation, as well as the author touching on difficult, nuanced topics such as fostered/adopted children coming to terms with their family and culture, and ultimately building their identities and found family. I also like that the author doesn't have qualms about mentioning white saviorism or having a villain who is "just a middle-aged white man."
The pacing felt a little bit off/slow, with it taking a significant amount of time for magic to even show up in the story. This is told in a way that is reminiscent of older nature quest tale, so it's possible that kids might find it a bit slow until the action ramps up near the end.
The pacing felt a little bit off/slow, with it taking a significant amount of time for magic to even show up in the story. This is told in a way that is reminiscent of older nature quest tale, so it's possible that kids might find it a bit slow until the action ramps up near the end.