This is solid, important historical fiction that does what good middle-grade books should: it opens a window into an experience most kids won't know, makes history personal, and asks big questions about identity and belonging.

It's not an easy read—Regina faces real ugliness in 1957 LA, and the book doesn't sugarcoat the trauma of having your tribe legally erased. But it's told with warmth, family love, and the kind of resilience that feels earned, not preachy. The fact that it's drawn from Charlene Willing McManis's own Umpqua history gives it weight and authenticity.

The enrichment value is high—this is the kind of book that sticks with kids and expands their understanding of American history beyond the usual narratives. It's not a page-turner in the thriller sense, but it's engaging enough for the target age range and worth the emotional investment.