Aleutian Sparrow

A. Bibliographic Data:

Aleutian Sparrow, by Karen Hesse, illustrated by Evon Zerbetz, published by Simon & Schuster in 2003; ISBN: 0689861893

B. Plot Summary:

Divided into three sections by time and location, Hess tells the story of the native Alaskans living on and evacuated from the Aleutian Islands during World War II. The book is told from the perspective of Vera, a young woman making this journey with her people. She begins heading back to her home village from another Aleut town, where she had been staying with some friends of the family. Upon arriving, though, her summer plans are changed as most of the population of the Aleutians is made to evacuate to southeast Alaska by the U.S. government. During the course of their forced exile, Vera shares the difficulties, sorrows, triumphs, and heartache of her people. She suffers the virtual abandonment of her mother and the death of her best friend, but she also discovers young love. Along the way, she tells readers some of the Aleutian traditions that they cannot carry out in their temporary homes, and some that persist against the odds.

C. Critical Analysis:

As a white American, this story made me ashamed of that period in our history. Learning of the mistreatment of these people by their adopted neighbors and the military installments that took over their homes was heartbreaking. The format of verse for this book makes the sentiments even more poignant. Hesse brings to light this portion of American history in moving, beautiful poetry. Although the lack of rhyme can take some adjustment for those used to certain types of poetry, the rhythm is carried through in Vera’s words and thoughts. The imagery Hesse uses, supported by similes and metaphors, brings readers right alongside Vera away from the ocean and into the dense, dark forest land that is so unfamiliar to her people. Hesse’s word choices communicate the despair of the Aleuts and their will to overcome the hardships they face. Overall, this novel provides an excellent avenue to introduce young people to verse as well as the particular period in American history.

D. Review Excerpts:

~ "Hesse's verses are short and flow seamlessly, one into another. Her use of similes is a powerful tool in describing people, scenes, events, and emotions. . . . Ending on a hopeful note, Aleutian Sparrow brings to light an important time in American history, and in the process introduces readers to Aleut culture." - Mary N. Oluonye, School Library Journal

~ "But, unlike Hesse's Newbery winner Out of the Dust (1997), the prose poems constituting the narrative are jerky, disconnected, and distancing. A more direct personal narrative (with a map) might have been more accessible and more eloquent than these short, scattered vignettes." - Hazel Rochman, Booklist

E. Connections:

~ Use as part of a study on Native American/Native Alaskan culture.

~ Use to supplement traditional World War II lessons and information.

~ Discuss with students how the story would sound and feel different if written in traditional prose.

~ Have students choose a historical event and write a short story in verse about it.

~ Discuss cultures that have been marginalized by larger groups (particularly native tribes of various countries)