Overview of the Story

In Dave Schafer’s ‘Sun Walker’, readers embark on a gripping journey through the tumultuous landscape of early 19th century America. The narrative follows Joshua Beck, the mixed-race son of a Virginia plantation owner and an enslaved woman, who escapes to the West after facing false accusations of patricide by his half-brother. Set against the backdrop of a vast wilderness, the story intricately weaves themes of identity, adventure, and survival.

Setting the Scene: A Journey Begins

The year is 1821, and Beck is one of a hundred volunteers joining a trapping expedition that navigates the Missouri River. This journey aims to exploit the resource-rich land ahead while leaving behind the traumatic remnants of his childhood on a plantation. After a harrowing incident where he narrowly escapes death, he finds himself lost in the wilderness, confronting both nature and his own survival instincts.

Encounters with Indigenous Peoples

During this expedition, Beck encounters a trio of Crow warriors. He finds himself particularly captivated by one warrior, a woman named Sun Walker, whose striking beauty and strength leave a lasting impression on him. Schafer vividly captures this moment, stating,

“It was hard to take my eyes off the woman. I wanted to take her image with me if I was to die. She was a bronze goddess…”

This connection signifies a glimmer of hope in Beck’s otherwise turbulent life.

Challenges and Conflicts

As the expedition progresses, the threat of conflict looms larger. Beck’s half-brother, Langford Pennington, also embroiled in his own struggles, resorts to violence, further complicating the narrative. Schafer explores complex themes such as greed and moral ambiguity through Langford’s descent into questionable alliances, reflecting on the broader implications of American expansionism and the cultural tensions of the time.

The Diverse Cast of Characters

One of the notable strengths of ‘Sun Walker’ lies in its rich character development. Beck’s interactions reveal the philosophical underpinnings of race and humanity in the American West. Notable supporting characters like Mudd, Bark, and Moses provide a compelling reflection of the varied experiences and perspectives of individuals in this historical period. Beck himself, as a mulatto, must navigate racial tensions, which are portrayed with nuance and depth.

Adversities and Triumphs

The narrative escalates as Beck and his companions face an array of perilous encounters, including battles with hostile Native Americans and the harsh realities of wilderness survival. Sensitive readers may find some graphic depictions of violence, but these moments are critical to understanding the intense stakes faced by the characters. With alternating perspectives, the story keeps readers engaged and on edge, particularly during high-tension scenes.

The evolving relationship between Beck and Sun Walker adds another layer of complexity, as Beck envisions a future with her amidst mounting dangers. The pursuit of survival unfolds in a dramatic conclusion that hints at further adventures, inviting readers to anticipate potential sequels.