The Birchbark House

The Birchbark House, Louise Erdrich

This novel was written by Louise Erdrich, a Native American author, in 1999.  This novel takes place in 1849 in Minnesota and follows the story of Omakayas, an eight year old Ojibwa girl who is adopted into a family after her people were wiped out by a smallpox outbreak.  The novel itself is broken down into four sections, which are labeled as the natural seasons.  There is a strong connection between her family’s lifestyle and nature, including an altercation Omakayas has with a mother bear and her cubs.  Throughout the novel, there are various tasks and chores to be done, all strengthening Omakayas’ bond with nature and her overall understanding of life in general.  Her relationship with her family and the reliance on nature are what allows Omakayas and her family to face the troublesome winter season, in hopes of fighting through to the peaceful spring.  

This novel is suitable for middle school reading; probably more for a sixth grade level rather than an eighth grade level.  Because of its vivid description of nature and the setting of the novel, I believe there could be some great projects to be done with the students about their own settings.  Perhaps the students can create a storyline that follows the season and perhaps what kind of bonds they may share with the elements.