THE ARROW OVER THE DOOR by Joseph Burchac Pictures by James Watling

BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Bruchac, Joseph. c1998. THE ARROW OVER THE DOOR. pictures by James Watling. New York: Dial Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0803720785

PLOT SUMMARY:
This historical fiction book is based on events that took place during the Revolutionary War. Samuel Russell, a 14 year old Quaker boy, meets a young Abernaki Indian boy named Stands Straight. The two boys tell the story of conflict between the two cultures based on revenge of the Indians against the white man because Stands Straight's mother and brother were murdered by whitemen. Samuel's family is in a Quaker meeting when an Indian scouting group led by Stands Straight's uncle surrounds the cabin. After the Indians find out there are no weapons, they leave their bows and arrows outside and join the Quakers. At the end of the meeting, the two groups share a handshake of peace and Stands Straight's uncle places an arrow over the door of the cabin as a sign that the Quakers are peaceful.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This story is a gripping account of a historical period in our country's formation. It is moving and powerful as a reminder of how peace can be achieved between two totally different nations or cultures. One of the especially appealing aspects of the story is that it is told from the teenage boys' points of view rather than from an adults. It brings out many different dilemnas that the boys must face as well as what their cultures face. Students will find ways that people with cultural differences can come together for the good of all. The story would be a good piece of literature to illustrate overcoming differences and how these have been evident throughout history.

The illustrations are simple in black and white, pen and ink type, which reflect the mood of the story. Reading and understanding the plot is simple, too. A 5th grader studying American history could easily read and understand the content and relate it to American History events.

REVIEW EXCERPTS:
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: "Full-page drawings in shades of gray fit the mood of the story without breaking the narrative flow. With a surprising amount of drama and even suspense, this tale of pacifism triumphant makes a good choice for historical fiction collections."
KIRKUS: "A delicate tale, very well told."
BOOKLIST: "A truly excellent example of historical fiction for the middle-grade/junior-high audience."

CONNECTIONS:
Have students keep a journal of their thoughts chapter by chapter as Samuel and Stands Straight alternately tell this tale.