The switching ends when Coyote Runs is captured and shot by Cavalry soldiers during his first raid that would have, if successful, made him a man among his Apache tribe.

In 1991 Publishers weekly wrote that "Paulsen's coming of age story is remarkable for its simple, restrained text.

Publishers Weekly wrote that "Readers with an appetite for Paulsen's blend of nature and mysticism will overlook Canyon's plot and find savor in its spirit.

[8] Groveland parks also mentioned another main theme in its review saying that "The bond between the two boys a century apart in time...grows as Brennan now searches for the final answer.".

[9] Powell's books wrote That during "a Grueling journey through the canyon to return the skull Brennan Confronts the challenges of his life.".