Thunder Birds

By Michael Barnes

When war erupts on the Minnesota frontier, childhood ends in a single terrible season. Thunder Birds follows white and Dakota boys and girls whose lives are shattered by a conflict they never chose-and whose courage and friendships defy the violent world around them.

In the summer of 1862, hunger, broken treaties, and government betrayal push the Dakota people to a breaking point. Families who once traded, played, and worshipped side-by-side are torn apart overnight. Through the eyes of young protagonists on both sides, readers witness how neighbors become enemies... and how hope survives even in a season of fear.

As the children struggle to survive, powerful leaders shape the war's fate:

Little Crow, who tries to protect his starving peopleHenry Sibley and Alexander Ramsey, determined to crush the uprisingRed Iron, Standing Buffalo, Cut Nose, Inkpaduta, Stephen Riggs and others, each driven by loyalty, vengeance, politics, or survival

Drawing on extensive historical research, author Michael Barnes blends real history with unforgettable human storytelling. The result is a novel that is both educational and deeply emotional-perfect for readers of historical fiction, Native American history, and classroom or book-club discussion.

Historically accurate and deeply researchedEmotionally powerful, character-driven storytellingA rare look at the only war fought on Minnesota soilFor fans of Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee, Little House on the Prairie, and Soldier's Heart

A moving and essential story of courage, loss, and survival, this novel shines light on one of America's least-known but most defining conflicts. Perfect for adults, students, educators, and anyone who believes history is not just dates-but people.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1962834603
• ISBN13: 9781962834605
• Release Date: November 2025
• Publisher: Calumet Editions
• Length: 286 Pages
• Weight: 0.85 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.0" x 9.0"
• Age Range: 13 to 17 years
• Grade Range: Grades 8 to 12