Firegold by Dia Calhoun (Good, 2001, HC, 349 pages, Winslow Press)

Former library book in good condition: cover has wear as pictured; typical library stamps/stickers; inside very clean. ISBN 0329237357

Jonathon, a thirteen-year-old boy, bears the burden of being both feared and despised by the brown-eyed Valley people due to his striking blue eyes. These azure orbs set him apart, marking him as an outsider in their community. But Jonathon's quest for self-discovery takes him beyond the confines of the Valley.

The Red Mountains, a rugged and mysterious terrain, beckon to him. Here, amidst the craggy peaks, resides the enigmatic Dalriada —a mountain-dwelling people with their own secrets. Their horses are not mere steeds; they possess a majestic quality, and their powers are steeped in mysticism. But what intrigues Jonathon most is their shared trait: blue eyes, akin to his own.

As Jonathon ventures into the heart of the Red Mountains, he seeks answers. Who is he truly? What ancient lineage binds him to the Dalriada? The journey is not swift; it unfolds gradually, revealing layers of identity and heritage. Jonathon grapples with conflicting loyalties—the familiar Valley he calls home and the tantalizing allure of the Dalriada.

In this tale of self-discovery, "Firegold" by Dia Calhoun, the path to understanding is neither linear nor easy. Jonathon's transformation is not a sudden revelation but a slow burn, much like the eponymous firegold—a precious substance that emerges from intense heat and pressure. Through Jonathon's eyes, we witness the delicate dance between belonging and otherness, tradition and destiny.

Calhoun deftly navigates the complexities of identity, weaving a narrative that resonates with authenticity. As Jonathon grapples with his dual heritage, readers are reminded that true selfhood transcends mere physical attributes. It lies in the interplay of memories, choices, and the bonds forged across time and space.