A Boy Named Beckoning: The True Story of Dr. Carlos Montezuma, Native American Hero

By Gina Capaldi

This story reveals the remarkable life of a Native American boy named Wassaja, or "Beckoning," who was kidnapped from his Yavapai tribe and sold as a slave. Adopted by an Italian photographer in 1871 and renamed Carlos Montezuma, the young boy traveled throughout the Old West, bearing witness to the prejudice against and poor treatment of Native Americans. Carlos eventually became a doctor and leader for his people, calling out for their rights. Gina Capaldi's exquisite paintings bring to life excerpts from Dr. Carlos Montezuma's own letters describing his childhood experiences. The culminating portrait provides an inventive look back into history through the eyes of a Native American hero.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lerner Publishing
• Release date: Nov 1, 2013
• ISBN: 9781467737555

Gina Capaldi

As a freelance artist, Gina Capaldi has both written and illustrated books that range from nonfiction, educational, and picture books. Her favorite published works are her historical nonfiction, such as A Boy Named Beckoning: The True Story of Dr. Carlos Montezuma, Native American Hero. One of Gina's earlier books on American Indians has been recommended for elementary school social studies curriculum in the Virginia School systems. Gina Capaldi attended Malibu's Pepperdine University; Art Center & College of Design in Pasadena, California; and Pitzer College in Claremont, California.

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Reviews for A Boy Named Beckoning

[ash13276 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I really enjoyed this book and the history events including the main character. If I was a history teacher then I would buy this book, if it was the appropriate grade level of course. Great details was shared in the book and made it seem as if I was there. Really liked how the author wrote the book as well as the pictures that were presented.

[1derlys · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Story about a boy Yavapai Indian, captured by the Pima Indians, and adopted by a photographer in a slave sale. The boy is educated and serves his people as a doctor and speaks out for civil rights for his people. Dr, Montezuma never forgets where he came from.

[eputney87 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Summary- A young Native American boy is taken from his family when his village is raided by the US Army. He is sold into slavery, lives a childhood full of change and eventually becomes a doctor. Strength- LayoutOn almost every page there is a side strip with actual photographs taken of Carlos and his family. Underneath the photos are descriptions and historical explanations. Use with Children- This would be a great book to help bring about the discussion of culture to young children. What would it be like if you were taken from your family and moved to a completely new culture? How did Carlos feel living in an unfamiliar culture?

[cshupp_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Wow this story was rough. It is amazing that he overcame so much! I don't know what I would do if I was seperated from my family like he was.