In the late 1950s, Jenny, a 14-year-old girl, lived in a small coastal town in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Her family, commercial fishermen, would seasonally travel to Alaska to fish for salmon during the summer and return in the late fall. A life-changing incident at home ultimately draws Jenny to Alaska and ultimately into a world of international intrigue.

"Totem Island" offers an intriguing look into the emerging salmon industry in the US and the overarching political turmoil of the time, making it an engaging read for history enthusiasts. At its core, the book tells the story of immigrants in America adapting to a new way of life, maintaining traditions and values while also protecting the principles many fought for during and after World War 2. Ultimately, the book is a moving tale of family love, resilience, and the human spirit.