Venture into the untamed wilds of prehistoric North America with the First Americans series, where epic survival, ancient magic, and the raw beauty of a lost world collide! Penned by Joan Lesley Hamilton under the pseudonym William Sarabande, this 11-book historical fiction saga blends fantasy and anthropological insight to bring the lives of early Native American tribes vividly to life. Follow Torka, Lonit, and their clan as they battle mammoths, navigate treacherous landscapes, and forge a legacy in a time when survival was the ultimate triumph.
With its gripping human drama and immersive portrayal of Ice Age cultures, First Americans invites readers to explore a world where every day was a test of courage and ingenuity. Ready to trek across the Bering Strait and discover the dawn of humanity on a new continent? Let’s dive into this captivating saga!
How First Americans Began
Joan Lesley Hamilton, writing as William Sarabande, launched the First Americans series in 1987 with Beyond the Sea of Ice. Inspired by her fascination with prehistoric life and her childhood visits to the La Brea Tar Pits, Hamilton crafted a saga rooted in the migration of early humans from Siberia to North America. Her background in art and creative writing, combined with a passion for natural history, shaped a series that paints vivid images of ancient landscapes and cultures. Published by Bantam Books, the series grew into an internationally acclaimed 11-volume epic, celebrated for its historical accuracy and imaginative storytelling.
The Heart of First Americans
The series kicks off with Beyond the Sea of Ice, where Torka, a bold hunter grieving his family’s loss to a mammoth, leads survivors across glacial tundra to find a new home. Corridor of Storms follows their perilous journey through rival tribes and harsh climates, while Forbidden Land introduces mystical elements as Torka’s clan confronts a magical foe, Navahlk. Spirit Moon, the final book, ties the saga together with a new generation facing the fading Ice Age and the rise of new cultures.
First Americans weaves themes of survival, community, and adaptation, set against the stark beauty of prehistoric North America. Hamilton’s anthropological insight shines through in detailed depictions of tribal customs, hunting rituals, and spiritual beliefs, blending gritty realism with touches of shamanic magic. Unlike Jean M. Auel’s Earth’s Children series, which romanticizes prehistoric life, Sarabande’s work embraces the brutal realities of the era—think less cozy cave romance, more life-or-death struggles with sabre-tooth tigers and rival clans. The vivid settings, from icy tundras to lush valleys, immerse readers in a world where nature reigns supreme.
Why First Americans Resonates
First Americans has carved a niche among fans of historical fiction and prehistoric fantasy, offering a gritty counterpoint to more romanticized tales. Its blend of adventure and cultural depth appeals to readers curious about humanity’s origins, earning praise for its vivid storytelling and well-researched details. Though less mainstream than Auel’s works, the series’ loyal fanbase cherishes its unflinching portrayal of survival and its celebration of early human resilience. Decades after its debut, First Americans remains a compelling journey into the roots of North American history.
- Publication Years: 1987–2000
- Number of Books: 11
- Publisher: Bantam Books
- Key Characters: Torka, Lonit, Karana
Ready to brave the Ice Age with Torka and Lonit? Grab Beyond the Sea of Ice and immerse yourself in the thrilling world of First Americans—where every page pulses with adventure and ancient wonder!