In the Shadow of the Mammoth (Paperback)

~ (Author), Anthony Alex Letourneau (Illustrator)

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 4-6-A tribe of people called the Star Dancers survive as hunters and gatherers in this novel set approximately 12,000 years ago. At 11 summers old, Zol lives in a small village with his mother, younger sister, and grandmother. Bad dreams and fears have plagued him ever since his father was killed while hunting mammoth several years earlier. He has been allowed to pursue his own interests, such as flint knapping, which is considered women's work, while other boys learn hunting skills. His troubles only increase when he rescues an injured baby crow and raises it as a pet. His grandmother believes that crows are evil and Zol's insistence on keeping it causes many arguments. Now, the age of manhood is fast approaching and Zol is expected to join the men on their next hunt. Although he almost drowns, has dangerous encounters with wild animals, and invents a new hunting tool, the plot moves along at a snail's pace and has no intensity. While Clark's research is meticulous and the setting and characterization are historically sound, the writing is dry, resulting in a mediocre read at best.
Karen T. Bilton, Somerset County Library, Bridgewater, NJ
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review

"I found this book very interesting and quite fascinating to read." -- Rosalie Baker, Editor, Dig and Calliope Magazines

"Patricia Clark definitely did her homework regarding the archaeology of the Clovis culture... This is a must read." -- Powys Gadd, Forest Archaeologist / Heritage Program Manager, Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests

I would strongly recommend to any intermediate school aged student—a captivating read!" -- Ms. Karen Kneadler, Librarian, Seoul International School

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 9-12
  
• Paperback: 171 pages
• Publisher: Blue Marlin Publications; 1 edition (June 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0967460247
• ISBN-13: 978-0967460246
• Product Dimensions: 7.4 x 5.3 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 5.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,904,026 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars A Meaningful Glance into Our Past, October 21, 2005

By	The Modified Librarian (Lafayette, IN USA) - See all my reviews

I just finished this book in one sitting, having only intended to read a chapter or two. I was drawn in and instantly caught up in the story of Zol, and his trek toward becoming a man in his clan. This book is not only engaging, but is historically accurate, using the Clovis people as Zol's clan base. The characters seemed real and engaging; I found myself holding my breath as Zol encounters dangers that seem unfathomable for an eleven year old boy to face in 2005. I enjoyed particularly the appearance and antics of Koot, the young hunter's pet crow. His actions and behavior were very accurate for those of the Corvid family and I could not help but laugh out loud. I would certainly recommend this book to intermediate readers, especially those young people who enjoy historical fiction. Furthermore, In the Shadow of the Mammoth would be a wonderful addition to anyone's "read-aloud" collection. This book is a triumph for Ms. Clark, and I look forward to seeing more books from her.

5.0 out of 5 stars An Interesting Way To Learn About The Ice Age, September 25, 2003

By A Customer

This book is exciting from the very first page.I have bought it for six middle-school aged children in my family, both male and female, and they all loved the story. Even their parents were intrigued with the topic aand read it as well. As a former teacher, I highly recommend "In The Shadow Of The Mammoth" as a wonderful addition to a teenager's personal library.

5.0 out of 5 stars Enchanting Read, September 12, 2003

By A Customer

An easy read that moves at a fast pace. Both my daughter and son loved this book (pre-teens). Although the setting is the ice age, the story speaks to the universal struggle kids face in trying to belong, have a purpose and be courageous. The action (especially the encounters with the Sabortooth Cat) had them hooked. They also really enjoyed Zol's pet crow's antics. The illustrations are beautiful and the characters come to life.