UW–Madison alumna Ann Dallman has released the third book in her award-winning Cady Whirlwind Thunder middle-grade mystery series. Her latest title, “Cady and the Search for Family,” was published by Modern History Press in April 2025.
Dallman earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism education from the School of Education in 1970. A retired high school language arts teacher, she now works as a freelance journalist.
The Cady Whirlwind Thunder series follows the adventures of a Native American teenager navigating family, community, and identity. In the latest installment, Cady embarks on a road trip with her grandmother through Wisconsin and Michigan, retracing the steps her mother took as a teenager. The journey becomes a search for answers about her mother’s long-ago disappearance — and a deeper understanding of herself.
“Cady and the Search for Family” continues themes of cultural identity and intergenerational connection explored in previous books in the series, and has received praise for its well-developed characters and sensitive exploration of Native youth and community. Author and educator Christine DeSmet writes, “Well-written and well-researched, this is a valuable and enjoyable novel for middle-grade readers and adults alike.”
Dallman’s first book in the series, “Cady and the Bear Necklace,” and her second, “Cady and the Birchbark Box,” were both widely recognized for their thoughtful portrayals of Native American culture and storytelling.
“Cady and the Search for Family” is available to purchase via Amazon.com and other outlets.