The Arrow Over the Door

"He and the others came here because they were asked by the English to make war on the Americans. Before they fought, they wanted to see what kind of people we were. They surrounded our house, thinking they might destroy all who were within. But when they saw us sitting with our door open and without weapons of defense, they had no disposition to hurt us. Then they knew they would not take the side of the king. They would take the side of peace" (p. 76-77).

SUMMARY

This story is told from two different perspectives, Samuel Russell and his Quaker heritage, and To Stands Straight, a young Abenaki Indian. Samuel is struggling to defend his Quaker beliefs for a peaceful nation, while To Stands Straight is confused at the British's insistence that all Americans are enemies. When the two cultures finally collide, the young characters must decide if fighting, or following their hearts, is what is best for their future and the future of their people.

MY REACTIONS

Because I am basing my professional project around cultural perspective, I thought Joseph Bruchac provided a unique way at presenting a controversial event and showing both sides of the issue. Justifying emotions and actions is much easier for the reader when they are able to get inside the minds of the two different characters involved. While the story was brief, it was still able to accurately portray the complexities of this historical time. I also liked the fact this novel would tie in with our 5th grade social studies curriculum and provide students with characters and emotion that would supplement our often dry and content-rich textbooks.

IDEAS TO EXPLORE WITH THIS NOVEL

• Ask students if they've ever faced a moral decision in their life. Can they justify the reason behind their decision?
• What is the symbolism behind the arrow over the door?
• Research the impact the Abenaki Indians had on the American Revolution.