Cold River Spirits: The Legacy of an Athabascan-Irish Family from Alaskas Yukon River by Jan Harper Haines

Spanning over three generations, this is the legacy of an Athabascan-Irish familys soul-grinding transition into a modern day, white dominated society where they face bigotry, poverty & illness. Against the stark wilderness of Alaskas Yukon River, Jan Harper-Haines provides a rich & candid account of the anger & confusion complicating her proud Native familys search for a better life while struggling to survive in two worlds. The author builds on the stories & beliefs passed to her by her mother & father, aunts & uncles & especially her grandmother Louise Harper. Rich Native myths are uncovered by Louise Harper, an important figurehead in the Harper family & mother to ten children. Her deep seated beliefs in traditional Indian spirits & great pride for the Harper name had an impact on her children & on generations to come. From an insiders point-of-view Cold River Spirits explores the journey of cultural transition & the compelling struggle that faced the Harper family, with only beliefs & traditions to unite them, a few belongings to sustain them & humor & self-respect to get them through.

Author: Jan Harper Haines

Language: English

Edition: First Edition

Binding: Hardcover

Pages: 192

Publisher: Epicenter Press

Publication Date: 2000-10-01