Abenaki Valley — David E. Plante; Lorraine M. Plante

Pursuing a strategy of colonial expansion in the early 1600s, France encourages its citizens to leave their motherland and venture to the New World. They focus on the St. Lawrence River area and sponsor settlements along its shores, calling this region New France.

One of these intrepid individuals is Henry Priest. The government employs Henry, an educated teacher and linguist, to travel to the New World and translate, interpret, and document the Indian languages spoken in and around Quebec City. On the voyage across the Atlantic Ocean, Henry becomes friends with twelve-year-old Zoel Smith and Zoels parents and looks forward to sharing his faith in the Lord with those who need it most.

Then tragedy strikesZoels parents perish aboard ship. Henry takes Zoel under his wing, promising to care for him when they reach their destination. Life in New France is challenging, but for those who are resourceful and determined, the opportunities are unlimited. Once Henry completes his assignment for the government, how will he and Zoel survive and profit in the New World?

An inspiring story, Abenaki Valley shows how brave individuals came to the New World and discovered Gods plan to use their lives for good.