Peacemaker

By Joseph Bruchac

A boy's quest for revenge is challenged by a mysterious peacemaker's vision.

4.0/5 Goodreads · 935 ratings

160 pages· 32,179 words· Est. 3.5 hour read

$16.99Save 6%

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Bookroo's summary

Twelve-year-old Okwaho's world is shattered when his friend is kidnapped by rival tribesmen. Consumed by anger and thoughts of revenge, he encounters a mysterious figure in the woods. This Peacemaker, with tales of unity, offers a vision of peace that could end the long-standing wars among the Iroquois tribes. As Okwaho grapples with his desire for vengeance, he must decide whether to join the movement for peace and witness the birth of the Iroquois Confederacy. Can one boy's choice help forge a new path for his people?

From the publisher

A twelve-year-old Iroquois boy rethinks his calling after witnessing the arrival of a mystical figure with a message of peace in this historical novel based on the creation of the Iroquois Confederacy. Twelve-year-old Okwaho’s life has suddenly changed. While out hunting with his best friend, his friend is kidnapped by marauders from a neighboring tribe. Okwaho barely escapes back to his village where everyone lives in fear of raids and killings: The five tribes of the Iroquois have been at war with each other for far too long, and no one can even remember what it was like to live in peace. Okwaho seeks only revenge, which will just perpetuate the violence. But before he can retaliate, a visitor with a message of peace, as told in the lore of the of the Iroquois nation, comes to him in the woods. The Peacemaker–a vision in white buckskin with a calm demeanor and soothing words–tells the boy that he can convince even the most warlike leaders of the wisdom of peace. Okwaho joins the legions of others who believe, and is present when the great treaty creating the Iroquois Confederacy is enacted.

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