Mike Watson's team has just won the Alberta Bantam Provincial box lacrosse championships. The euphoria of victory and plans for next season are short-lived when Mike's father, a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, is transferred to Inuvik, Northwest Territories.
The transition to life inside the Arctic Circle is a tough one. With temperatures of -30 Celsius, a hulking monster named Joseph Kiktorak threatening him at every turn, and not a lacrosse ball in site, Mike's resentment at moving north escalates.
As his friendships with local youth develop, Mike is introduced to the amazing spectacle and athleticism of traditional "Arctic Sports." When his father witnesses the natural talent of Mike's new friends, the idea of an Inuvik lacrosse team is born! With hearts full of desire, the motley group of athletes heads south to participate in the Baggataway Lacrosse Tournament, and to face Mike's former team, The Rams.
"Adult readers should not be put off by the fact that this is a young adult novel; it is a good Arctic read for anyone."
"All the characters in the book are likeable, and Feagan introduces a wide variety of both teen and adult characters without resorting to stereotypes."
Robert Feagan is the author of two previous novels for young people: Napachee and Mystery at Shildii Rock. He was born in Fort McPherson, Northwest Territories, and often accompanied his RCMP father on patrols of the Mackenzie Delta by dog team. Feagan currently resides in St. Albert, Alberta.
"Arctic Thunder made me laugh out loud more than any book I've read recently, and I loved the opportunity it gave for a glimpse into a region of Canada that most of us will never explore. Feagan's lacrosse play-by-play is well written, and the characters he presents are fun and real. A light, refreshing read."
"The best bits of the book are when Feagan uses his platform to showcase some of the aboriginal traditions that are still in place today, and are enlightening to others outside the Inuit culture."
"Arctic Thunder is a fast-moving read that will give many readers a sport and a part of Canada they are unfamiliar with. For northern readers or lacrosse enthusiasts, it will be a great way to find themselves in pages of an exciting book."