A Very Brave Behind a Tree Book Review

 Raiders from New FranceNorth American Forest Warfare Tactics, 17th–18th Centuries René Chartrand, Author, Adam Hook, illustrator 

This is an essential work for anyone reenacting the “French and Indian War”. It is particularly useful for anyone reenacting a milicean of that conflict. The subject matter Rene Chartrand chose to focus on is largely of the 17th century. This is especially interesting to us 18th century reenactors because it shows that this hybrid Indigenous- Canadian warfare had been happening,successfully, for over one hundred years before the war began, before any of our persona’s would have been called for service to the parish and king. This work is the lineage of the Raiders from New France passed down to the raiders of the 1700’s. 

Chartrand highlights the realities that it was Native Warriors and Canadian milice who almost single handedly carried out the will of France, sacrificing their own bodies in the process. Chartrand does not delve deep into the political motivations of the Indigenous population of New France and I would like to see a more detailed book written in this aspect.  Chartrand does acknowledge the vital role that Indigenous leaders played in the politics of  New France and the fact that they forged their own destinies alongside their  European counterparts as opposed to beneath them. 

The work is expertly illustrated by Adam Hook whose illustrations are clearly deeply researched and highlight Interesting pieces of the story. His illustrations are not only informative but convey fierce emotion, showcasing the brutality of these hundreds of years old events. 

The adoption of First Nations techniques and the blending of 16th century European naval equipment along with a distinct home team advantage and the cooperation of the people in New France are what Chartrand argues led to the often overlooked military brilliance of the Raiders from New France.