I am Kaya. I am a Native American/Indigenous girl of the Nimíipuu, or Nez Perce tribe. My stories are set prior to permanent settlement of the area by white European-Americans. The stories are post-European-American contact, as evidenced by the fact the tribe caretakes for horses (though horses were in the Americas prior to European-American arrival) and my grandmother has pock-marks from prior contact that led to disease spread. I am a very active young girl, fitting with an outdoor lifestyle. I swim in the river every morning with the other girls. I care greatly for animals, especially horses. I like my grandmother's stories. I many times act before I think, getting me into trouble many times through the series. In Meet Kaya, my rash actions get me in trouble, earning a switch for all the children from Whip Woman and the disparaging nickname "Magpie" which I try desperately to get rid of. Later, my rash actions get me and Speaking Rain kidnapped by another tribe. I am prone to boast or brag to seem important. I hope to become a strong, courageous leader of my people. I try to seem strong, even when I am feeling at my worst. Remarks made by the boys often hurt my feelings. I was awarded with the name of my heroine, Swan Circling, and am going to use it when I am ready. I deeply care about my family and friends. I am best friends with my sister Speaking Rain and we share many secrets with each other. I am also friends with Two Hawks.