The Broken Blade

In 1800, 13-year-old Pierre LaPage dreams of becoming a voyageur and paddling a fur trade canoe. But this is something that older, more experienced men do. However, when Pierre's father has an accident, Pierre signs on with the North West Company so that his family will have money to survive the winter.

Life is hard for Pierre as the youngest member of his brigade. Treacherous rapids, blistered hands, aching muscles, and the cruel teasing of the older men make him miserable. But there is no turning back for Pierre, and he must endure the 1,000 mile journey from Montreal to Grand Portage.

©2020 William Durbin (P)2023 William Durbin

Coming of age story filled with adventure and danger experienced by a 13yr old!

This book quickly became one of my favorites because it's so engaging, entertaining, and provides really interesting historical details. Pierre, who's just 13, pulls off something incredible by taking over his dad's job to help out his family after an accident. Imagine paddling over two thousand miles with no practice beforehand – it's a wild journey made even more interesting by the people Pierre meets along the way. It reminds me of other books I love, like Gary Paulson's "Hatchet."