The Heart of a Chief

"It has been said that giving a sports team an Indian name is meant to honor Indians. But if real Indians don't feel honored by that name, what really is the honorable thing to do?" (p. 129).

SUMMARY

Chris Nicola is an eleven year boy entering the sixth grade who is dealing with issues inside and outside of the school setting. Although Chris quickly makes friends at his new school, he is put in charge of a controversial project that has the potential of ruining his image. Chris is annoyed at the team's mascot name, The Rangerville Chiefs, and many of the signs kids hold up during sporting games, like "Scalp 'em Chiefs". Chris decides to do something about this dilemma and risks the friendships he has formed by attempting to put an end to these derogatory comments and actions. In addition, Chris' Penacook is struggling with life at home. His mother is deceased and his father is away battling his alcoholism. Also, his reservation is struggling with the decision on whether or not they should build a casino on their land. This novel explores many of the harsh realities of Native American children today.

MY REACTIONS

I really enjoyed the character voice in this novel. Joseph Bruchac did a fantastic job at making his characters seem real and believable through attitudes and dialogue. For instance, Chris comments on his first week at his new school. "It is Saturday morning and I have survived the entire first week of school. That's a big plus one. But on Monday I will be back in the shark tank. Equally big minus one" (p. 27). The character's voice is definitely there and definitely believable!

I also appreciated how the male protagonist stood up for his values. I think that is an important lesson to teach our students in today's society. Bruchac did not sugar-coat the difficult struggles Native American children face on a day to day basis (alcoholism, neglect, addiction, prejudices). Rather, he presented the issues in a way that opened our eyes, made them real, and resulted in an awareness for many of our society's downfalls.

IDEAS TO EXPLORE WITH THIS NOVEL

• Students can develop leadership roles to make changes both in and out of school.
• Have students identify offensive mascots in their surrounding communities. Then, research why these mascots are offensive and explore ways they could make a change for the better.
• Explore how Chris' feelings of injustice in his own life led to his earning respect. Ask students if they can relate using a similar experience.