Title: Boy Made of Dawn
Author: R. Allen Chappell
First published January 1, 2013
140 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9781492358442 (ISBN10: 1492358444)
Rating: 4.25
Overview
What happens when a scarred and dangerous man sets his sights on a beautiful and innocent woman? In this thrilling tale, Sophie Oak explores the boundaries of love and lust, as two unlikely souls are brought together by fate.
With danger lurking at every turn, will the beauty be able to tame the beast? Or will their fiery passion lead to destruction?
Find out in this captivating romance novel.
About the Author
R. Allen Chappell, a writer of eight novels and a book of short stories, has a unique connection to the Navajo people.
Growing up with them, going to school together, and working alongside them, he has built lasting friendships that have served as the primary inspiration for his series of books. According to the author, these deep and meaningful relationships have been the driving force behind his work.
Editoral Review
R. Allen Chappells novel Boy Made of Dawn is a stunning work that beautifully weaves together the themes of culture, tradition, and identity in the context of the Navajo Indian Reservation.
First published in 2013, Boy Made of Dawn is a must-read for anyone interested in Native American literature, as it offers a fresh perspective on the rich culture and traditions of this community. The author, R.
Allen Chappell, is himself a member of the Cherokee Nation and has lived on various Native American reservations, including the Navajo Indian Reservation in Arizona where the book is set. The authors firsthand experience and deep understanding of the Navajo way of life is evident in his vivid descriptions of the landscape and the daily life of the characters.
The novel follows the story of Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn of the Navajo Tribal Police as he investigates the murder of a young Navajo boy. As he delves deeper into the case, he is forced to confront the harsh realities of life on the reservation and the struggle that the Navajo people face to maintain their traditions and identity in a world that is rapidly changing.
Along the way, he meets a cast of well-drawn characters, including a young boy struggling to fit in with his peers and a single mother trying to provide for her family. One of the strengths of Boy Made of Dawn is its ability to transport the reader into the heart of the Navajo world.
The authors skillful use of language and vivid descriptions creates a powerful sense of place, allowing the reader to experience the landscape, the traditions, and the challenges faced by the Navajo people. Moreover, the novel raises important questions about identity, tradition, and cultural preservation that are relevant to current events and social issues.
That being said, while the novel is beautifully crafted, there are some weaknesses to be acknowledged. The pacing of the novel at times can be slow, and some of the characters motivations and actions are not fully explained, which can leave the reader feeling confused.
Additionally, some readers may find the depiction of the Navajo culture to be overly romanticized, and may wish for a more nuanced portrayal. Overall, Boy Made of Dawn is a powerful and moving novel that offers a unique perspective on the Navajo Indian Reservation and its people.
Despite its flaws, the book is a valuable addition to the canon of Native American literature, and is sure to captivate readers with its richly drawn characters, beautiful prose, and insightful commentary on culture and tradition. As such, I recommend Boy Made of Dawn to anyone with an interest in Native American literature, culture, or history.
It is deserving of a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
