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John Brown Dog is a Native American. He is a dancer who knows the dances of his people and frequently joins in rituals and ceremonies. His grandfather says that he has a mission for John -- he is to accompany Elena to find her mother. The Grandfather is not someone who would make meaningless requests so John knows that this trip is very important. While he does not like Elena's appearance or behavior, he agrees to assist her with this quest. As he and Elena travel, he finds that they are visiting National Monuments and causing some form of damage to them. While he does not know how they are doing this damage or why, he is aware that the Grandfather and Elena have a plan. John tries to warn the FBI of the danger and the crimes that have been committed, but they treat him as though he were crazy. Charlie Hart is the only FBI agent to believe him, although he too has his doubts. With more investigation, the FBI does begin to realize the threat that Elena presents to the fabric of American history. What the FBI refuses to realize is that what Elena is attempting to accomplish could spell the destruction of the human race. Somehow, Charlie must discover Elena's plans before all hope for humanity is lost. FACING RUSHMORE is a thought-provoking and uncomfortable book. The two main characters of the book, John Brown Dog and Charlie Hart, do not have much control over their own lives or any of the events in which they are forced to participate. Charlie believes the almost supernatural story that John tells but he is unable to convince anyone else of this truth. In addition, he is forced to follow a path in his investigation that leaves him with little control. On the other hand, John is a little more comfortable with his lack of control. He is willing to believe that his elders have a plan for him that he will carry out. While the lack of free will and independence is a little frightening, John is much more willing to accept the situation for what it is. Whether this is a political statement about the treatment of Native Americans and the forced passivity and helplessness that is forced on them is not explicit. However, based upon the underlying themes of the book, this hypothesis is incredibly likely. The story line of this book is also disturbing to the reader. Throughout history, the relationship between Europeans and Americans with Native Americans has been uneven and unfair. Various governments made promises to native tribes that were never supported or carried out. In fact, some of these promises were out-and-out lies. In FACING RUSHMORE, the Native American population is able to take revenge for past lies and mistreatment. While each individual does not realize what is going on, the events and destruction that occur throughout this book seem to be directly related to the treatment of Native Americans. I do not want to provide too many details and risk spoiling the book, but the spirits that arise to join the fight and Elena's prediction of the future is unsettling. The idea of nature taking such harsh revenge is frightening. FACING RUSHMORE is the 11th book by David Lozell Martin.
Reviewed by Sarah Dudley, September 2005
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Contact: Yvonne Klein (ymk@reviewingtheevidence.com)
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