He knows he is a disappointment to his father, Elk River, to his uncle Owl Friend, who founded a warrior society, and to his older brother Two Wolves.

The New York Times, asserted that "What gives this book stature ... is Elk's quiet courage in defying tradition and finding his own place in his tribe and in life".

The Christian Science Monitor, emphasized that "Mari Sandoz has written a beautiful story that is bright with warmth, humor, and love of life.

There is a fine sense of place, the wide plains, the canyons, the brushy gullies; a deep insight into the life of the Cheyennes and their firm and understanding way with their young people".

[5] Kirkus Reviews found "Though simply carried out, the story thread is strengthened by its very quietude, its thoughtful examination of an Indian mind and the interweaving of Cheyenne customs with the lives of other tribes: Comanche, Ute and Kiowa.