In "Shadow of the Jicarilla Owl," John Noah finds himself immersed in the strange spiritual world of the Jicarilla Apache Indians. Accidently, or perhaps through fate, he meets an old, lonely, sometimes comical, Jicarilla man, claiming to be a Shaman. The old man tells him "I'm waiting for the Owl; he's coming soon." Later, he explains, "Abaachii not speak of dead or dying. It bring bad spirits. When we say Owl took someone, they are gone, not to return."

Noah realizes the old man is alone and is seeking help. He develops a liking for the old man. In frightening circumstances, Noah...