Childforever

This novel is a sensitive and sophisticated examination of Native cultural identity today, using the "road novel" structure and a hero who is still a "child" in both the pejorative and positive senses. McCulloch uses a lyrical prose style and warm humour to draw us into Will Sawnet's confused state of mind as he absorbs the fact that he was adopted by his European Canadian parents, and his mother was Native. A trip to her home reserve leads him into unexpected encounters with the present reality, rather than the past dream, of Native culture--and that reality is grim and despairing at times. Will's adventures are counterpointed by parables or tales using Coyote, the popular Native trickster figure, suggesting an archetypal level to Will's journey. Will's affair with a troubled Native woman who is yet another version of the muse or earth goddess, a type of mother-figure, initiates him into Native identity...and by the end, a deeper maturity as well. Well-drawn characters, a compelling narrative and a mix of humour and pathos make this novel a fine blend of entertainment and education.