Two Roads

Joseph Bruchac
55 pages1-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Middle Grade
Published in 2018

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Book Brief

Joseph Bruchac

Two Roads

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

•

Coming of Age

•

Children`s Literature
Setting

United States • 1930s

Theme
Politics & Government

•

Race

•

Friendship
Topic
Arts & Culture

•

World History
First Publication Year

2018

Publisher

Dial Books

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

740L

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Super Short Summary

In Two Roads by Joseph Bruchac, set in 1932 during the Great Depression, the protagonist, Cal Black, navigates life as a "hobo" with his father until his father decides Cal should attend the Challagi Indian School to reconnect with his Creek heritage. Cal learns about his cultural roots and faces numerous challenges that shape his identity, culminating in a deeper understanding of his multifaceted self. This novel includes discussions of historical mistreatment and systemic cruelty towards Indigenous people and the experiences of unhoused individuals during the Great Depression.

Inspirational

Emotional

Nostalgic

Contemplative

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

4.0

1,598 ratings

73%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Joseph Bruchac's Two Roads offers a compelling historical narrative that resonates with readers through its vivid storytelling and strong character development. While praised for its rich depiction of the 1930s and the Great Depression era, some critics feel the pacing could be uneven at times. Ideal for middle-grade readers interested in history.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Two Roads?

A reader who would enjoy Joseph Bruchac's Two Roads is likely a middle-grade to young adult audience interested in historical fiction, especially during the Great Depression. Fans of Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt and Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis will appreciate the heartfelt exploration of identity and resilience.

4.0

1,598 ratings

73%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

The protagonist of the novel, Cal Black is a young "hobo" who embarks on a journey of self-discovery after learning about his Creek heritage. He tries to reconcile this newfound identity with the one shaped by his father's influence and their transient lifestyle.

Cal's father, who is a World War I veteran and serves as an influential figure in Cal's life. He is characterized by his strong values, such as loyalty and work ethic, and desires a life of purpose, which he seeks through associations like the Bonus Army.

Cal's first and best friend at Challagi, who helps him adjust to life at the school. He serves as both a mentor and a guide, helping Cal navigate the new environment and fostering a deep friendship.

Cal's deceased mother, who influences him posthumously. She was wise and perceptive, understanding Cal’s father's Creek identity and sharing a clairvoyant gift that binds her to Cal even after her passing.

The leader of the Challagi gang who exemplifies Creek values through leadership that includes serving others. He engages fairly with Cal, reflecting the just nature of Indigenous people as conveyed by Pop.

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

•

Coming of Age

•

Children`s Literature
Setting

United States • 1930s

Theme
Politics & Government

•

Race

•

Friendship
Topic
Arts & Culture

•

World History
First Publication Year

2018

Publisher

Dial Books

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

740L

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