I Can Make This Promise, by Christine Day. Harper, 2019. $21.00 ages 10 and up

"Serenity rolls over onto her stomach. "Are you really sure about this?" "Sure about what?" "Reading this stuff in private," she says. "Instead of just asking your parents about her." "I already told you, they lied when I asked about my name. They'll probably deny the rest of it, too." "I don't know. They might surprise you." "They lied. They won't tell me anything." "I doubt that." Serenity bites her lip."

Edie has always known that her heritage is Native American on her mother's side, Her father is white. Her mother was adopted while young by a white family. Edie has been told that her mother knows nothing about her birth family. While Edie would like to know more, the three live a happy, secure life in Seattle. Until the day Edie discovers a box in the attic and sees photos of a woman who looks exactly like she does. Who is she?

The two have the same name. Knowing her mother's reticence to discuss her past, Edie does not approach the subject with her parents. She wants to find out as much as she can on her own. That creates tension with her best friends, and eventually with her parents. Through the letters, postcards, and photos she becomes aware of some of the difficulties faced by Edith while she is pursuing a career in film. The fact that she is treated poorly in that industry because of her native heritage, and that her brother Theo does work with the American Indian Movement lead to a catastrophic event when she gives birth as a single mother. It is a story Edie's parents have been hesitating to share until she is 'old enough'.

Now, it is out in the open ... and her parents do as they had always intended. They share Edith's story. In so doing, Edie learns her own mother's history as well. Painful truths and an event that is alarming to say the least are exposed, and a path to trust and healing can begin. 

This enlightening book handles aspects of the historical treatment of Native American children with dignity and assurance. Adoption and cultural identity are at its heart. Written by a debut author whose own roots are similar, it is a worthy book to read aloud for middle graders. It is a relevant read in these days of reconciliation and understanding our collective history. We continue to hope for healing and justice for all those affected.