A new addition is being made to the English 12 A curriculum this year: the bestselling novelcalled Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley. It is a part of the Great Michigan Read program and is being read in schools and libraries all over Michigan. 

The book follows the 18-year-old main character and her Native American culture as she explores issues many high school seniors deal with today. High School English teacher Jessica Beebe said, “She has some college decisions to make, and she has a best friend. It is a young adult story, but it’s set in Michigan and the characters are Native American.” 

The book took the author, Boulley, 10 years to write and takes place in Sault Ste. Marie, on and around a reservation in Northern Michigan. It is also partially based on the author’s own experience. Beebe, after meeting the author at a speaking event in October, said, “A lot of Native American books have been written but they have been written by Non-Natives… It was really interesting getting her perspective.” 

Alex Sinn, who is also teaching the book, said, “It’s refreshing to have a text by an author who is part of the community she is representing. That’s something we’re always looking for.”

As for teaching the book, Sinn said, “It is not a traditional literary novel… It fits more in with books people pick up for enjoyment.” When asked what he wanted seniors to take away from the book he explained that the book is really meant to show seniors the fun of reading and to promote personal reading outside of high school and beyond.

He explained, “We hope that it is something they choose to read and enjoy.” 

When asked the same question, Beebe said, “I know it is a big book and that scared a lot of my students… I would want people who pick it up to realize that it goes quickly and it’s really interesting.”

Alyssa Petznic, a senior who has read the book, said, “It’s intriguing. Keeps you on the edge of your seat!”

Another senior, Tegan Rose, said, “It’s a cool story.” 

If people are interested in reading the book, there are copies of Firekeeper’s Daughter in the library. Additionally, there is a sequel called Warrior Girl Unearthed that introduces new characters and a new story for those who would like to continue reading her work.