UA Press book tells tale of Tlingit boy's courage
September 6, 2016
The University of Alaska Press has released “Little Whale: A Story of the Last Tlingit
War Canoe,” by Roy A. Peratrovich, Jr.
A 10-year-old Tlingit boy, Kéet, stows away for a voyage in his father’s canoe and
finds himself caught in the turbulent waters of an Alaska storm. Later, far from his
home village (that would become modern Sitka), he ends up in a dangerous dispute between
clans.
From the mists and shadows of Southeast Alaska, Peratrovich spins a timeless coming-of-age
tale to captivate and educate readers of all ages. Into a true story passed down by
his Tlingit grandfather, the author has woven his own fantasy. His illustrations draw
the reader into a time long ago when the whims of nature and man bring about a boy’s
test of courage.
Peratrovich's parents were well-known Alaska Native civil rights leaders. He was the
first Alaska Native to be registered as a professional civil engineer in Alaska. After
retiring, he returned to his passion for art and established Ravenworks Art Studio.
For more information about this title and many more, please visit www.uapress.alaska.edu or call 800-621-2736.