A couple of kids on a mountain and are either rescued or menaced (possibly both) by a man who has had his tongue cut out. He may have been Native American or it may have been implied that this was done by Native Americans. He might also have had a dog. Probably 1995-2000. May have won awards as this was read aloud in a children’s library where award-winning books were often chosen.
Not sure if this is correct but is it Weasel by Cynthia DeFelice?
Oh, the humanity! Bookstumper solved this for me years ago, and I’ve just searched all my (considerable) bookcases and I can’t find it, nor can I remember the title or author. The man with no tongue helps the kids escape. Dear lord, if I have lost the book a second time I will run screaming into the night… I’ll post again when (if) I find the book.
It’s your lucky day – I found my old search info. The book is “The Master” by T. H. White. Now if I can just find my own copy…