Diamond Willow (book)

Diamond Willow is a young adult novel written by Joseph Bruchac, published in 2008. The story follows Willow, an eleven-year-old girl of Abenaki and French-Canadian heritage living in rural upstate New York. Willow possesses a strong connection to her Native American traditions and the natural world.

The central narrative revolves around Willow's coming-of-age journey as she navigates challenges in her personal life, including the complexities of family relationships and the search for her own identity. Her dreams and visions, potentially linked to her Abenaki ancestry, play a significant role in guiding her.

The book also explores themes of environmentalism and the importance of respecting nature. Willow's interactions with animals and the surrounding wilderness are integral to her growth and understanding of the world. The diamond willow tree, a symbol of beauty and resilience despite hardship, serves as a metaphor for Willow's own journey. Diamond Willow is often praised for its authentic portrayal of Native American culture and its sensitive exploration of universal themes of identity, family, and connection to the land.