Chapter 3, The River People Summary

The River People. Desiderio is taken in by a group of Indians who have taken to living on the river since the arrival of people from other countries in their lands. Desiderio, who is part Indian and has always been ashamed of his heritage, finds himself embracing his heritage as these kind people make him a part of their family. Desiderio quickly learns the unique singing language of these people and some of their customs. When he is healed from his wounds well enough, Desiderio joins the family in their daily activities. Nao-Kurai, the man who rescued him, asks Desiderio to teach him to read and write English. They begin their lessons in earnest, but Desiderio finds Nao-Kurai a difficult student.

Due to the war, most of the movement of commerce has been restricted on land, therefore...