Set among the Tequesta Indians of south Florida during the 1500's, this story depicts Little Eagle struggling to achieve manhood. In bragging about himself, Eagle earns the enmity of the bully Bobcat. The boy plans it well--that stupid escapade at the Terrible Whirlpool--until Bobcat thwarts the scheme. Eagle nearly kills himself and his cacique. Humiliated, he hides in his bed only to hear of impending exile. Growing up is tough for this 13-year-old. Will he commit a blunder at the Bitter Drink Ceremony, bringing more ridicule? Will he live up to expectations during the Great Hunt? Will he act with courage or cowardice in dangerious situations, as when a hurricane threatens to sweep him out to sea? Soon, however, Himmarshee, the New River that appears overnight changes his life forever. Through it he discovers himself and the secret of his life. "An engaging coming-of-age tale of a boy's ascent into manhood. Bringing to life a vanished race, Dr. Corll depicts universal young adult dreams, ambitions, and contradictions that transcend peoples and times. A change of pace for adolescent readers." Linda Goldsmith, Ed.D Program Professor, English Education, Fischler Graduate School of Education, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.