The opening pages of Uncle's Story suggest a twist that the reader may guess.. but after the first few pages, all bets are off... as Witi Ihimaera takes the reader on a wild and action-packed ride of plot twists and character development. Similar to Whale Rider, in that it's a coming of age (coming out of the closet?) story of a young Maori fighting against the bias and proud traditions of one's tribal family. Uncle's Story has additional drama with it's backdrop being the Vietnam War.If you saw the movie Whale Rider and loved it, then you owe it to yourself to read Uncle's Story. You won't be disappointed!!!