The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare

This novel tells the story of a 13-year-old boy, Matt who is left alone in the 1760s unsettled Maine territory to guard his family’s new cabin while his father fetches the rest of the family. Matt faces numerous challenges including theft, hunger, bear encounters, and fear of Native American attacks. He however befriends Attean, a boy from the local Penobscot tribe, and learns survival skills from him. In trade, he teaches Attean to read. Matt is faced with many decisions that require his courage, loyalty and faith as he waits for his family’s return.

Reading Level: 8-12
Read Aloud Age: 6+

This book is a classic for a reason. While it does have elements of “white guilt” it is well balanced also giving the realities of the Native American way of life and its pitfalls. I believe it gives an apt perspective to the treatment of the Native people in early America. It covers many real-world issues such as survival, hunger, bravery, honor and curiosity. Matt is a wonderful boy who has excellent character. Attean is also well rounded as he grows to learn about Matt and value his friendship. Do be aware, there are serious themes in the book including being robbed, wild animal encounters, race relations, starvation, isolation, and infant death.

I enjoyed how the Native American way of life was honored and described. The settlers are also portrayed as selfless pioneers intent on carving out a life for themselves in unknown lands. Most honor the tribes and their knowledge. My children loved the animal encounters and the way each boy taught something to the other. The book can lead to some wonderful discussions as well as provide an excellent starting point for a nature study. It has wonderful descriptions of animal behavior, natural elements and necessary survival adaptations. It is important to note that while this book has been placed on “books to avoid” lists because of its description of the Native characters, I do believe that the author’s intent was pure and educational. No descriptions that are given provide bias or negative connotation to the tribe or its people in my opinion.

Language:
Some consider “sqaw” to be an offensive term for a Native American woman.

Questionable Behaviors:
Matt letting a stranger into his cabin, putting himself in danger, not asking for help when desperate.

Other Things to Know:
Every family approaches these racial tension topics differently. Keeping a Christian worldview approach when talking about other cultures and racial identities is key.

This review is written by Good Book Mom contributor, LeeAnne. To learn more about LeeAnne, click HERE.

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