Thunderbird Spirit is smoothly told, well paced, and has interesting characters. However, its two major plot lines fail to mesh effectively. Most of Thunderbird Spirit is about hockey, racism, and self-control, but final chapters of the novel present a sub-plot that involves an attempt to blow up a hydroelectric dam. This mystery/adventure strand, which includes a last-second rescue by military helicopters, is at odds with the more believable main plot. Overall, though, this is a readable and entertaining story. There are some statements of Christian religious beliefs in Thunderbird Spirit, but they are relatively unobtrusive. Those who share these beliefs will be happy to see them presented in the novel, and readers who are disinterested can easily ignore them.