Description
Eagle Drums by Nasuġraq Rainey Hopson, Inupiat, is the story of how Iñupiaq people were given the gift of music, song, dance, community, and everlasting tradition. An origin story of the Iñupiaq Messenger Feast, a Native Alaskan tradition.
As his family prepares for winter, a young, skilled hunter must travel up the mountain to collect obsidian for knapping—the same mountain where his two older brothers died.
When he reaches the mountaintop, he is immediately confronted by a terrifying eagle god named Savik. Savik gives the boy a choice: follow me or die like your brothers.
What comes next is a harrowing journey to the home of the eagle gods and unexpected lessons on the natural world, the past that shapes us, and the community that binds us.
“A soaring story of family and courage, culture and community, wonder and resilience.” —CYNTHIA LEITICH SMITH, anthologist of Ancestor Approved: Intertribal Stories for Kids
“Nasuġraq Rainey Hopson has accomplished something truly monumental. Through her impressive talents as a writer and artist, Rainey shares cultural teachings and, indeed, the art of storytelling with readers of all ages. Eagle Drums is a masterpiece!” —ANGELINE BOULLEY, author of the #1 New York Times bestseller Firekeeper's Daughter
“Tears at this beautiful story. Where were these books when I was a teen?!” —CAROLE LINDSTROM, author of Caldecott Medal winner We Are Water Protectors
“"I'll read anything Nasuġraq Rainey Hopson writes. She never fails to pull me in and keep me guessing as to what will happen next. Her masterful storytelling in Eagle Drums is superb and not to be missed.” —TRACI SORRELL, award-winning author of Indian No More