Written by: Penina K. Spinka
Submitted By: Yoli Rector
This book was a serendipity find. There are immense details of the life of 14th century North America [what is present day upper New York/ lower Toronto borders]. Spinka imparts an insightful understanding of the differences in tribal spirituality/religion and ethnicity/culture. She weaves a lush yet believable set of scenarios that Picture Maker survives. I like the book as it conveys timeless issues that even I have battled in my life; thus identification with the characters. One such issue is the meeting of cultures/races-North American Natives and Norse. The further unification in literal marriage of old world &new world brings more challenges which has to be overcome during one of the most environmentally strife-ridden times, a short ice-age in Greenland. Spinka, like Cornwell, makes some comments about Christianity that are relevant and undeniable. Because of its original take on an old theme, man vs environment, both natural and social, it is a historical must-read. Its follow-up book is Dream Weaver.
