Wild Song - by Candy Gourlay (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

The Philippines, 1904

Sixteen-year-old Luki is the best hunter in her village, but she has to keep it a secret. Hunting is a man's skill. She's expected to marry and raise a family instead.

Chafing against these restrictions, she impulsively accepts an offer from the local American authorities: they're looking for volunteers to travel to the United States for the World's Fair, where Indigenous peoples from around the world will be represented.

Luki and others make the long journey to Saint Louis, Missouri, for the fair, where they're "exhibited" in a replica village. But even as Luki makes friends and discovers a wider world that intrigues her, she learns dangerous secrets and difficult truths. Facing pressures from all sides, she must decide what kind of future she wants after the fair.

Review Quotes

"Successful in its enormous scope even as it portrays meticulous, tender growth in its main character. An exceptional feat."--Shelf Awareness

"The realities of race, class, and gender in this place and period of history are rendered here with words that are honest and moving without being overly emotional or moralistic. Lovers of historical fiction will thoroughly enjoy this novel."--starred, School Library Journal

"Gourlay explores some of the consequences of colonialism with nuance and sensitivity. Luki is a spirited character who thoughtfully observes the injustices of the world around her yet maintains a sense of hope and optimism. . . Give this to fans of well-researched historical fiction featuring authentic voices."--starred, Booklist

"The narrative examines the exploitation of Indigenous peoples and the commodification of culture, expertly framed by the moving story of a young woman longing to pave her own path in life. . . A powerful coming-of-age story exploring identity and exploitation during a little-known historical moment."--Kirkus Reviews