Step into the vibrant, ancient world of the First North Americans series, where the pulse of prehistoric North America beats through tales of courage, survival, and spiritual discovery! Penned by husband-and-wife archaeologists Kathleen O'Neal Gear and W. Michael Gear, this historical fiction saga weaves meticulous archaeological insights with gripping narratives, bringing to life the diverse cultures that thrived long before European contact. From icy migrations to bustling mound-builder cities, it’s a journey through a forgotten past that feels thrillingly alive.
How First North Americans Began
The Gears, both seasoned archaeologists, launched the series in 1990 with People of the Wolf, driven by a passion to illuminate North America’s prehistoric civilizations. Their shared expertise—Kathleen’s Ph.D. studies and Michael’s fieldwork—fueled a vision to blend rigorous science with storytelling. Meeting at an archaeological conference (where Kathleen famously stepped on Michael’s hat), they discovered a mutual dream to humanize the artifacts they studied, creating a series that’s as educational as it is enthralling.
The Heart of First North Americans
The series spans 29 books, each a standalone tale set in different eras and regions, from 13,000 years ago to the Mississippian culture around 1000 AD. People of the Wolf follows a dreamer leading his people across a frozen land bridge, battling harsh elements. People of the Earth, set in modern-day Montana and Wyoming, explores a woman torn between two cultures amid a drought. People of the Lakes centers on a young woman tasked with destroying an evil totemic mask, while People of the Owl tracks a young warrior’s rise to save his clan in prehistoric Louisiana.
Themes of resilience, cultural adaptation, and spirituality weave through the series, grounded in archaeological finds like the Kennewick Man and coastal migration routes. The Gears’ prose balances vivid action with mystic elements, like shamanistic visions, while portraying complex societies—warts and all—with wars, trade, and environmental challenges. Unlike romanticized depictions, their Native American characters are multifaceted, engaging in conflict and survival with equal parts heroism and flaws.
Why First North Americans Resonates
The series has captivated readers and critics alike, with nearly 18 million copies sold and translations in 29 languages. Its blend of authenticity and adventure sets it apart, earning accolades like the Owen Wister Award for the Gears’ contributions to Western literature. Fans praise its vivid reimagining of pre-European life, offering a counterpoint to mainstream historical narratives. By spotlighting underrepresented cultures, it invites reflection on humanity’s shared past, making it a timeless gem for history buffs and fiction lovers.
- First Book: People of the Wolf (1990)
- Total Books: 29
- Awards: Owen Wister Award (2021), Spur Award for People of the Raven
- Authors: Kathleen O'Neal Gear and W. Michael Gear, archaeologists
Ready to roam ancient North America? Grab People of the Wolf and dive into the First North Americans’ epic saga of survival and spirit!