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Reviewed by Richard Prause for Readers' Favorite
K.M. Huber's Call of the Owl Woman carries readers into ancient Peru among the Nasca people. Patya, the protagonist, is a 15-year-old girl caught between her personal desires and her duty to her people. As drought engulfs her homeland, Patya's people begin to turn on each other. When Kuyllay—the village's healer and Patya's grandmother—suddenly dies, the priests plan to use her skull for their ritual practices, as is their custom. This act angers Patya, and she even refuses to take up Kuyllay's role as a future healer. As the story unfolds, Achiq, a cunning priest, proves to be a threat to Patya's family and her younger brother, Tachico. Driven by despair and a desire to save her loved ones, Patya goes on a spiritual journey into the sacred mountains. Will she finally discover her true destiny, or will she run from it?
In Call of the Owl Woman, K.M. Huber elegantly blends Nasca culture, community conflict, and spirituality to create a coming-of-age story that is both engaging and entertaining. The author writes with respect for the culture she portrays, and her depiction of Patya feels authentic. Patya’s grief, opposition to certain traditions, personal conflicts, desire to protect her family, and search for self-identity all make the book memorable. I like how Achiq's character serves a dual purpose. He's both the villain and the oppressive power that eventually sets Patya on the path of her spiritual growth. Another intriguing aspect of the story is the ancient rituals. They show the importance of traditions in the lives of people from ancient civilizations. This fascinating book is a must-read for historical and YA fiction fans.
