I Am Apache
by Tanya Landman

    I AM APACHE by Tanya Landman
    Category:  Historical
    Age Recommendation:  Grades 9+
    Release Date:  8/26/08
    Publisher:  Candlewick
    Reviewed by:  LadyJay
    Rating:  5 Stars


    At fourteen, Siki knows that she will walk a difficult path among her tribe.  Having no talent for women’s work, Siki
    has chosen to live and train as a warrior.  Many of her fellow tribesmen view her as a disgrace; an outcast.  Siki only
    wishes for one thing – revenge.  

    The senseless murders of her mother and younger brother have sparked a bitterness within Siki that cannot be
    extinguished.  Every day the attackers live is another reminder of how her family was slaughtered.  Siki’s warrior
    spirit is strong and will not be bent.  The pride she feels for her people is boundless.  Her training is arduous, but
    necessary.  What she learns as an Apache warrior may very well save her life and the lives of her people.  

    Her path is chosen; she does not look back.
            
    Landman expresses in her author’s note that she has not tried to create an accurate historical novel, but rather one
    that is based on true events.  She wished to explore how one might have felt if put in Siki’s situation. The author
    allows Siki to narrate her own story, thus producing an extremely strong piece of writing.  Because of this, the reader
    becomes intimately involved with Siki and the events surrounding her.  

    Siki is filled with wisdom and courage that will appeal to many young readers.  Those who follow her on her journey
    will not be disappointed.