The Root Cellar

Ray Karhu leaves an archaeological dig to tend to family matters in the Upper Peninsula. What he finds in his Aunt s cabin is a legacy he knew nothing about. Viena, a Karelian emigre, was a shaman keeping the magical tradition of healing and nature worship of the Arctic Finns alive in the north woods. Ray s struggle to accept, understand, and finally embrace this tradition takes him on a wrenching journey of exploration and discovery of the past and the present. Inspired by the Kalevala s mythic images, rhythms, and portends, this story evokes its own brand of magic. Cover art by Kevin Heckeler.