Picker

Summary
Fernando Martinez is the reluctant crime boss of a trafficking gang. A fateful day in Northwestern New Mexico brings about a violent grab for power, a sudden upheaval and dire consequences for many. Take an armchair journey to an underworld populated by creation myths, thrilling highs, crushing lows, scenic locales, criminal minds and dramatic suspense. Read PICKER to experience the spectacular, sinister and spiritual sides of the Land of Enchantment!

Characters
Fernando – The criminal leader who is forced into making difficult and dangerous decisions.
Juan Carlos – The father of two brothers, he is the founder of the crime gang.
Drumming Boy - An young Acoma son that's on his way to becoming a shaman.

Quote
I don't want a life full of pain, like my dad's…with every¬thing hateful and ugly.

Locations
San Rafael, Santa Fe, Acoma Pueblo, Cibola County

First sentence
The filmy green trees on the riverbank beckoned to him. He made his way through patches of sand, clusters of spiky yuccas and thickets of cottonwood trees. He smelled the gurgling water of the crick ahead of him. Drumming Boy peered on; the surface of the river bed bubbled. He was amazed but he was not afraid.

Themes
Reality and ancient lore collide as two young men come of age; worlds apart, separated by generations.

Notes for parents
PG 13 - Mild violence, suggestion of sexuality, drug use and moderate adult themes.

More books like this
Skinwalkers by Tony Hillerman, Indians of the American Southwest by Treasure Chest Books, Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather and The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver.