Bone Talk

A visceral coming-of-age novel examining the impacts of imperialism.

In 1899, Samkad, part of the Bontoc tribe in the Philippines, is preparing for a rite of passage when a snake attack delays the ceremony. In order for the rite to proceed, he must find a boy, Kinyo, whose soul is tied to his own. Once Kinyo is found, though, new complications arise. Wearing Western-style clothing and speaking fluent English, Kinyo arrives with his aunt and Mister William, a white American. The group shares the news of Kinyo's burnt village and a war fought against American invaders. Touching upon timely subjects, such as cultural assimilation and prejudice, Gourlay (Shine) writes with graphic frankness about the realities of war and violence ("I could feel the soft heat swiftly dissipating, turning the warm, living flesh into cold, unyielding meat... my knees were dripping. Blood"). Steeped in Filipino tradition, this richly historic coming-of-age novel shows readers a rare view of the Philippines on the brink of American colonization. Ages 10-14. (Nov.)

Copyright 2019 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Gr 5-7—Centering on a small mountain village in the Philippines at the end of the 19th century, this novel is an unparalleled story of one boy's journey towards manhood and knowledge of the world beyond. Samkad and Little Luki are best friends. They do everything together, from playing tricks on the ancients to rambling through the forests that surround their home. But things are about to change. Samkad has been chosen to become a man, and Luki is jealous. She will never hold a spear or become a warrior because she's a girl. Yet on the eve of the ceremony, things begin to go terribly wrong. Father hastens away in search of a boy Samkad once knew, and returns with news of the lowlanders, "Americans," and war. Everything changes, and before long Samkad and Luki must show what they are truly capable of. In a genre full of coming-of-age stories, Gourlay brings a new and authentic voice to the table with this story about native people living in the Philippine mountains prior to the Philippine-American war. For many readers, it may be an unfamiliar period in history, full of rich traditions and practices. Yet these distinct triumphs and tragedies succeed in heightening readers' empathy for a people devastated by violence and change. VERDICT This title presents a captivating story about the strength of heritage and community. Likely to do well among young readers interested in untold stories of the past.—Rebecca Redinger, Lincoln Park Branch, Chicago Public Library

Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Praise for Bone Talk in the UK

One of the standout titles of the year. — Clare Zinkin, The Independent

Gourlay's evocative writing grips from the outset. — Imogen Russell Williams, The Guardian Books of the Month

A powerful, complex and fascinating coming-of-age novel. — Citation, Costa Book Award

This is a book that takes the reader on a memorable journey and stays in the mind for a long time. Citation, Carnegie Medal Shortlist

Opens our minds to a little-known corner of history through Samkad's authentic, transfixing voice. Very special. — Alex O'Connell, The Times Books of the Year

A soulful coming of age story rich in Filipino myth and tradition, combined with a thrilling adventure of headhunters and invaders, asking powerful questions about community, colonialism and what it means to be a man. The Bookseller Ones to Watch

A mesmerising world of soulful ritual and community, rendering the impact of the American invasion all the more devastating. — The Observer

Exciting and action-packed, it's well written and difficult to put down. My fave character is Kinyo (Samkad's brother) because he bravely stands up against his enemies and can speak two languages. — Edward (10 years old), National Geographic Kids Featured Book