From Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, The Eagle Huntress published on May 12, 2020.
In this compelling memoir, teenaged eagle hunter Aisholpan Nurgaiv tells her own story for the first time, speaking directly with award-winning and New York Times bestselling author Liz Welch (I Will Always Write Back), who traveled to Mongolia for this book. Nurgaiv’s story and fresh, sincere voice are not only inspiring but truly magnificent: with the support of her father, she captured and trained her own golden eagle and won the Ölgii eagle festival. She was the only girl to compete in the festival.
Filled with stunning photographs, The Eagle Huntress is a striking tale of determination — of a girl who defied expectations and achieved what others declared impossible. Aisholpan Nurgaiv’s story is both unique and universally relatable: a memoir of survival, empowerment, and the positive impact of one person’s triumph.
Be sure to pick up a copy for yourself here.
Buzz for The Eagle Huntress
“Nurgaiv’s love for and pride in her homeland, culture, and family come through with quiet, persuasive power. An intriguing memoir from a girl who’s become a cultural icon.” – Kirkus Reviews
“Young readers will be intrigued by the details of eagle hunting and the nomadic lifestyle and will empathize with how alien Western culture seems to Aisholpan when the film makes her famous abroad. This is an accessibly written, steadily paced story of perseverance and self-confidence.“ – School Library Connection
“Though her culture and upbringing will be very different from that of the average reader, they will connect with Nurgaiv’s young age and pursuit of her passion. Further reading suggestions and a Kazakh glossary offer additional insight into Kazakh culture. A great stand-alone or companion to the documentary film The Eagle Huntress.” – Booklist
About the Authors
Aisholpan Nurgaiv is a 16-year-old Kazakh girl and the first female eagle hunter to compete in the Golden Eagle Festival at Ölgii, Mongolia.
Liz Welch is an award-winning journalist and memoirist. She is the co-author of the New York Times bestselling I Will Always Write Back and The Kids Are All Right, whichwon an ALA Alex Award.