Bone Talk

About this book

It is 1899. Ten year old Samkad thinks he knows everything about the world. He knows that home is in the mountains. He knows who his friends and his enemies are. And he knows that he will grow up to become a warrior like his dad, with his own shield, spear and axe.

His best friend is Little Luki and she too wants to become a warrior - though there's little chance of that because she is just a girl.

Then strangers arrive: a boy with many languages in his throat ... and weird-looking men called Americans who bring war and death.

Set during the U.S. invasion of the Philippines.

Endorsed by Amnesty International: "Amnesty International endorses Bone Talk because it upholds many human rights, including our rights to life, to equality, to have a religion, to enjoy our own culture. It also shows us what can happen when these are taken away from us."

Reviews

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