Birchbark Boat

A lyrical and adventurous Middle Grade novel that explores the spiritual heritage of the Oroqen people--China's "last hunting tribe." When young Wuri and his grandfather, Grandpa Tuobu, set out on a journey toward the Greater Khingan Range, they carry more than just supplies. Traveling with a handcrafted birchbark boat and a rescued roe deer, they embark on a quest to reconnect with their ancestral homeland. Their odyssey--spanning trains, bicycles, and the very boat Tuobu built by hand--is a testament to the enduring bond between generations and the natural world. As a sudden storm floods the Huma River, Wuri must find courage within the ancient legends of his people to navigate the challenges of the modern world. Masterfully blending cultural history with a poignant coming-of-age story, The Birchbark Boat is an evocative exploration of identity, environmental stewardship, and the preservation of indigenous craftsmanship.