Polly Bigelow

When Raven Dances tells the story of a girl growing up in in Seward, Alaska after World War II. It is also a study in mythology, reminding us that dangers lurk in the midst of happiness. Ms. Bigelow has obviously done a lot of research into the history of Seward, Alaska, a port often overlooked by tourists as they board or disembark their luxury ocean liners. She is able to weave in the language and folklore of Native Americans and other early immigrants from Alaska to New Mexico. Her descriptive writing style reminds one of Elizabeth Peters, author of the popular Amelia Peabody series. Many details bring the 1940s vividly to life. Most of us today are unaware of what sacrifices U.S. citizens had to make for the war effort. There are many suspenseful events in this novel that keep us turning the pages. Readers will be hoping for a sequel to learn what else happens to our gutsy heroine and her compatriots. Patricia Cleavenger, teacher of English literature and Columbia Basin College librarian War disrupts a young child's life when her father is killed in action. As a result, her mother decides to leave the comforts of New Mexico to seek a new life for them in far north Alaska. This story chronicles the ups and downs, adventures and misadventures in her life as she and her mother struggle to establish themselves in their new world. This is a “feel good” book worth your time. Read it. You will be glad you did. William R. Brooksher, Brigadier General USAF, military historian and author of Glory at a Gallop: Tales of the Confederate Cavalry