55 pages 1 hour read

Joseph Bruchac

Two Roads

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2018

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Two Roads by Joseph Bruchac, set in 1932 during the Great Depression, the protagonist, Cal Black, navigates life as a "hobo" with his father until his father decides Cal should attend the Challagi Indian School to reconnect with his Creek heritage. Cal learns about his cultural roots and faces numerous challenges that shape his identity, culminating in a deeper understanding of his multifaceted self. This novel includes discussions of historical mistreatment and systemic cruelty towards Indigenous people and the experiences of unhoused individuals during the Great Depression.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Joseph Bruchac's Two Roads offers a compelling historical narrative that resonates with readers through its vivid storytelling and strong character development. While praised for its rich depiction of the 1930s and the Great Depression era, some critics feel the pacing could be uneven at times. Ideal for middle-grade readers interested in history.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Two Roads?

A reader who would enjoy Joseph Bruchac's Two Roads is likely a middle-grade to young adult audience interested in historical fiction, especially during the Great Depression. Fans of Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt and Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis will appreciate the heartfelt exploration of identity and resilience.

Recommended

Reading Age

10-14years

Lexile Level

740L

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Coming of Age / Bildungsroman

Themes

Society: Politics & Government

Identity: Race

Relationships: Friendship