The Way by Joseph Bruchac is “the way” more books for middle and YA readers should be written. It has a fast paced, simple story line. (Only 156 pages) It includes topics of interest to young readers (martial arts and the military). It realistically includes real issues facing young readers such as not fitting into the cliques, lack of self-confidence, parent conflict, divorce, parent dating, bullies, and school violence.

Cody LeBeau, the main character in The Way, truly develops as the narrative progresses. As his uncled begins teaching him native AND martial arts philosophy – “The Way” – he learns that we are all connected to the earth and to each other. Cody learns that changing his own attitude can change everything. Bruchac doesn’t use one of my favorite bits of wisdom, but he well could have with Cody: “You can’t change the actions of others, but you can change your reaction.” When Cody begins to develop focus and self-confidence he sees not only himself in a new light, but his enemies as well. And his enemies respond to the change. The book has a riveting finish, as Cody’s fantasies of being a martial arts hero are confronted with the challenges of real heroism.

Without being moralistic in tone, The Way contains great insight and wisdom. I’ve made similar comments in previous posts on Bruchac’s books, but I’m impressed over and over. Books should entertain and capture the interests of our students. This one does. But books can also broaden our minds and leave us better people for the reading. This one does.

One of the distinctions in Bruchac’s books is that while the adult characters are flawed and human they are important and active participants in the life of the protagonist. The adults are not all evil or ineffective as in so many YA novels; most of the adults in Bruchac’s books are respected and seen as an important resource in the young adult’s life…despite their personal flaws.

Another Bruchac strength is he doesn’t write books about Native Americans, he writes books with characters who are Native American. There are legitimate concerns within the children’s literature world that students will think of Native Americans as historic only. Bruchac’s books have no apparent political agenda in this vein, yet they unassumingly portray modern young people who happen to have a native heritage. No agenda. Just people. This is “the way” it should be.