Born of an Eclipse

More about the book

BORN OF AN ECLIPSE, 55,300 words, is a story of magical realism/historical fiction.Although the main character is eight years old, the story is definitely for older readers.Born when the sky darkened in the middle of a sunny day, Ahni is "born bad" to her father and to others who believe that eclipses are omen of evil. Grammy casts all the spells she knows to ward off the darkness that seeks to grasp onto her granddaughter.After Big Thunder, his work horse dies, Ahni's father blames her. He turns to drink and becomes abusive. Desperate he can no longer earn a living, he leads Ahni and her mute mother to an isolated logging camp to make their own way. Even though she must work hard, Ahni finds a home and comfort at the camp. Many of the loggers treat her with kindness. When a series of challenges overwhelm the camp. Ahni is again blamed because she was born during an eclipse. A missing logger, a blizzard, dwindling supplies, a near fatal injury, and finally, the drowning of two horses are too much for the camp boss and some of the loggers. They demand Ahni leave before worse happens. Feeling abandoned-even by her mother-Ahni sets out to find her beloved Grammy. Lost and tired she comes upon a hut inhabited by Old Biddy Bones who isn't about to let Ahni continue her journey home.