Rave Reviews!

 

Richard Zane Smith (Sǫhahiyǫh),Wyandot Tribal Member and Artist:

Congratulations  to the author Ms. Fran Borin for writing The Ghost of Samuel Grayhawk.

Written with young people in mind, the story helps to remind readers of the indigenous roots of history existing right beneath our feet and under the homes of thousands of American citizens.

The story is positive and doesn’t wag fingers but presents a side of American history that is so often overlooked by introducing the ghost of a Wyandot boy wanting to be reunited with his ancestors but having one last task to do before he can walk his final journey. He meets a group of living children who interact with him and introduce him to some of the seemingly strange customs of modern Americans. They eventually help him along his path. The spirit realm for our Wyandot people is not something we’ve feared. Our ancestors, like the stars, have been considered as luminaries to help us through dark times. It is through us that ancient knowledge is passed on to the younger generations. This story can also serve as a light to help young people become interested in the cultures, stories and languages that were born right here on this continent they now call home.

Ellery M. Camet, age 12, Bethesda, MD:

A compelling, must-read story of supernatural  intrigue, mystery, plot twists and adventure. I especially love the characters!  I think the growth of each was gripping, and I feel like I could relate to them!  They are multi-dimensional and speak in a real, straight-forward voice.  Once I started the book, I could not put it down, and at the end, I hoped a sequel would soon follow!

John Forbes, Librarian – Shawnee Indian Mission, U.S. History Teacher

Children of all ages enjoy the stories of adventure with an imaginary friend.  This one can spark an interest in the Shawnee Indian Mission going beyond visiting three old buildings.  This can become a base for a greater interest in the history of the area.

Isaac Young, age 9, Shawnee, KS:

I think that people would like to read this book because it’s a really adventurous story and a good Halloween story, too.  This is a good book because it’s a very fun ghost story with lots of surprises.  I like the secret of the ghost.  I think other kids would like this book because it’s a really interesting fiction story that contains reality.

Nancy Wallerstein, Former Chair of the Shawnee Indian Mission Foundation:

Teaching young readers about history is always a challenge.  Fran Borin has created a compelling story to entice young readers in her new book Orion O’Brien and the Ghost of Samuel Grayhawk.  Borin weaves a tale which brings the history of the Shawnee Indian Mission’s Trade School to life, while imagining the quest of a young Wyandot boy’s ghost in search of the ultimate fate of his sister.  It is an entertaining tale that will engage young readers while putting history in a context they can understand. Educators should place this book in their recommended reading lists.  (next to the Ingalls-Wilder Little House series).

Rachel Hohendorf, Elementary Teacher, Kansas City, Kansas:                                         

Fran Borin’s book, Orion O’Brien and the Ghost of Samuel Grayhawk is an engaging and modern day ghost story for kids.  Characters Orion, Ollie, Sal, and Sophia embark on an intriguing journey as they learn about their local historical landmarks and the impact they had on the lives of the Native Americans who once lived there. I enjoyed these likeable kids whose curiosity helped them create a unique friendship and see their world through a fresh perspective. This is a fun chapter read on its own or could easily be incorporated by teachers as part of a social studies history unit for grades 3rd – 5th.

Caitlin Dailey, age 9 ½, Fairway, KS:

I like the Halloween part because Samuel protected his friends from the bullies. I think other kids would like this book because in the beginning of the book Samuel was a kid in the past and then he got to see what it was like to be a kid now. I liked that Samuel is a wood cutter.  I like that it takes place in my hometown of Fairway, Kansas. I like how Orion wonders what happens to ghosts when they leave the real world. It made me think there might be another book with Orion and Samuel. I liked how Orion and Ollie and Sal and Sofia worked together to help Samuel. It made me sad that Molly was really sick at the beginning and that she died without Samuel being able to say goodbye. I would tell my friends to read this book because it takes place in Kansas and teaches kids something about the history of Native Americans who have always lived in Kansas.

Melinda Lang, Library Assistant, Perry, KS:

Orion O’Brien and the Ghost of Samuel Grayhawk is an engaging novel with an historical slant for grade-schoolers.  The realistic and gentle dialogue between the main characters provides a great example of children learning to appreciate and respect differences in life experiences and cultural backgrounds.  Then the overall focus on relationships delivers a wonderful message outlining how very alike we all are in our basic need for love, family, and friendships.

Debbie Demarest, Elementary Special-ed Paraprofessional, Overland Park, KS:

This is a well-researched and heartfelt book that will teach kids (and adults!) about friendship and appreciating each others’ differences in a fun, entertaining way. The story has humor, suspense, and strong themes of family and of wanting to find our way home. Kids will learn a lot while having fun!

Celeste Stanfield, Secondary Literature and Composition Teacher, Multiple-year Honoree of Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers, Overland Park, KS:

Is it possible to discover life and love in a graveyard? Perhaps, if such a quest includes fellow voyagers—ghosts, goblins and young detectives. In Orion O’Brien and the Ghost of Samuel Grayhawk Fran Borin guides readers on an exploration in a story that warns about the evil of hatred and the goodness of friendship. Sam remembers from his childhood when from his peaceful people, the Wendat, he and many children were taken away from their parents and forced to attend Mission school. Families shattered forever—some always searching for those lost, living, dead. Throughout the setting in the Huron Cemetery, Borin juxtaposes the imagery of pathos with the dialogue of promise. Orion sees “…small, plain gravestones on the ground…dark and super ancient…some with letters worn away.” Yet, Sam says, “I feel the spirit of my sister here…thanks for bringing me on the quest to find my sister.” This novel transports readers to a compass, a beacon, a mooring in the direction of discovery that only with others may one become part of the greater good.

Annalyn Carver, age 12, Kansas City, MO:

I really liked the book!  My favorite part was when Orion went to Samuel for the first time, because it was the beginning of their big adventure. My favorite character was definitely Ollie, because I saw my little sister in him.  It was really great to read with references that I recognized. I would like to know if there will be a sequel? Will Orion meet any other ghosts?