A Distant Enemy: 1

Set in a remote Alaskan village, this first novel fluidly communicates the bitterness of Joseph, a boy of mixed race, as he witnesses the erosion of Yup'ik Eskimo traditions by white men enforcing their ""kass'aq rules."" Unable to express his hostility toward his own Caucasian father, who left the family to ""return to civilization,"" the 14-year-old strikes out at other ""gussaks"" who cross his path, most specifically the rangers, who set fishing restrictions, and the new English teacher, who understands little about Eskimo values. Each time Joseph releases his anger by acting defiantly, he becomes more entangled in a web of deceit and destruction. Ironically, it is Mr. Townsend, the English teacher, who rescues him at his darkest hour. Throughout, Joseph's widowed grandfather stands out as a voice of reason and compassion. The respected elder's ability to acknowledge the value of ""gussak"" contributions while retaining ancient beliefs encapsulates one of the most provocative themes of this insightful book. Vanasse creates a vivid portrait of modern Eskimo lifestyles, conflicts and fears while rendering a sensitive account of one teenager's coming of age. Ages 10-14. (Mar.)