From Publishers Weekly
No one is more impressed with Iktomi than Iktomi himself, and in the Plains Indian trickster's fourth misadventure his narcissism is again his (hilarious) downfall. Though he has a wife, Iktomi sets out for the next village where, he is certain, the girls will swoon over him. But Iktomi never learns: he insults his horse, and is left in the middle of nowhere without transportation. Then the Mouse People trick the trickster into putting his head inside an old buffalo skull--where it will stay until Iktomi makes his way home and faces the laughter of his village and the wrath of his wife. Goble's versions of these age-old tales are masterpieces, from his exquisitely portrayed characters to his punchy text. Fans will hope the well of Iktomi tales never runs dry. Ages 4-7.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
From School Library Journal
Grade 2-5-- Iktomi, the Plains Indian trickster of Iktomi and the Ducks (1990) and Iktomi and the Berries (1989, both Orchard), is up to no good again. Grumbling and wisecracking, full of himself as ever, the crafty fellow falls to his own stupidity as usual. He sets off in full ceremonial regalia to impress the girls in the next village, but is distracted by a Mouse-People powwow and before long has a sacred buffalo skull stuck on his head. In this irreverent condition, he stumbles into the river and floats back to his village, where Mrs. Iktomi sets him free with a few blows of her stone hammer, telling him a thing or two while she's at it. In a comfortable blend of three voices, Goble includes asides to listeners and Iktomi's own self-congratulatory running commentary, both of which add sparkle to an already lively tale. The ink and watercolor pictures make use of Goble's characteristic confident line, vivid color, and expressive forms (some in silhouette) set against plenty of contrasting white space in vibrant ways that release them from the soberness of some of his more sedate work. Details of dress, village, and animals place the story visually in a traditional context, while modern references in Iktomi's speech suggest that he and his stories are still alive today. A comic, respectful telling, and a pleasure to read many times over. --Karen Litton, London Public Libraries, Ontario, Canada
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
