A thorough account elucidates the dramatic history of the Elwha River, sacred to the Elwha Klallam Tribe (also known as the Strong People) of the land commonly known as Washington State. Beginning with overviews of the river’s formation, the salmon that spawn in its waters, and the natural resources the river provides for the Strong People, the narrative then covers the decades of damage caused by the actions of white settlers. In 1910 and 1926, respectively, the “strangers” built two dams, greatly disrupting life in and around the river: The salmon population is decimated, habitats destroyed, banks eroded, and the Strong People’s Creation Site and lands are flooded. When the license for the dams is up for renewal, the Strong People and other allies double down on their efforts to have the dam removed; eventually, they succeed. Removal of the dams and successful rehabilitation of the river takes years and the work of many specialists, including fish, water, plant, tribal, and wildlife scientists, and many volunteers. Replete with clear diagrams and sidebars, this is a fascinating and inspiring account of perseverance, cooperation, and gratifying success.   (Ages 8-12)