Jose Barreiro's masterfully written historical novel recounts the Indians' discovery of the ways of the Europeans, as seen by Christopher Columbus' young adopted Indian son both during their first encounters as well as in Spain. While vividly recreating the often violent clashes of cultures and expectations that eventually disaffected and decimated the indigenous populations, Barreiro has maintained total accuracy in his exploration of the Taino cultures. This forgotten chapter of history makes for fascinating reading by providing an alternative view of the so frequently mythologized encounter and the men who brought it about.