"Cady is a beautifully drawn and very likeable character. Readers will feel lucky to have found Cady and accompanied her on a journey of self-discovery. Cady grows to appreciate how her people are much more in touch with the natural world, possess an ingrained sense of wonder, and a firm belief that nature in all its myriad forms communicates with them. Best of all they live in harmony with the natural world. And oh yes, this is a YA novel, but I defy anyone of any age to read a few pages and not become totally absorbed in Cady's life." -Tom Powers, Michigan In Books

"Ann Dallman's debut middle grade novel Cady and the Bear Necklace is an enthralling tale that is equal parts mystery and first-love pangs. Cady Whirlwind Thunder is a Native American girl in the 8^th grade at the Four Eagles school in the fictional town of Barnesville, Michigan, somewhere near the Escanaba area. I strongly recommend this book to both middle grade readers and parents alike, because it is a compelling, character-driven novel with a rich cultural background and a positive message for everyone." -Victor R. Volkman, Marquette Monthly

"Ann Dallman's middle grade novel, Cady and the Bear Necklace, is a passionate look at Native American culture and how it affects a young girl as she grows from a child to a young woman. This coming of age novel is full of mystery and native culture. The plot develops with growing tension as the reader wants to know more about the necklace as much as Cady does. Young readers will certainly feel connected to Cady and all her feelings and growing up emotions, struggles, and conflicts. The characters are realistic and the Native American history and culture is an interesting added bonus. The author has developed a wonderful tale of adventure, mystery and native culture. Well done! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book." -Emily-Jane Hills Orford, Readers' Favorite

"As the Director of the Crystal Falls District Community Library (MI), I highly recommend this book! It has mystery and adventure, with a hint of romance. I have bought this book for gifts, and it is just great. Ann Dallman can really write a tale for tween children that speaks to them on their level. Don't overthink it. Just put this in your cart now and buy it!" -Evelyn Gathu

"I highly recommend Cady and the Bear Necklace as a classroom read-aloud for middle school. My students and I were able to read the book together. Ann is not just an author but a teacher. Cady and the Bear Necklace introduces students to a culture that may be different from their own but yet the students feel connected to the character. Ann opens dialogue, through Cady, about issues students are facing. I was able to develop mini lessons to go along with the book. My students wrote letters to Cady giving her advice, they researched information on Native American nations, and they did character comparisons. The level of readability, the young woman as the main character, and the mystery captures all types of readers. A good book to captivate all levels within a classroom." -Gina Zanon, Michigan Master Teacher/Middle School

"What a beautifully written story of a young Native American girl, Cady, and her search for love and answers. This book is both an engaging mystery and a story of family with characters who will tug at your heartstrings. The author's descriptions and authentic dialogue will immerse the reader in Native American culture and history. I love how the characters give us a view of the world through the eyes of Native Americans. This is but a small sample of the wisdom that jumps off the page. The crisp pacing will defy you to put the book down. ." -Gregory L. Renz, author of Beneath the Flames