From School Library Journal
Gr 4-7-Series titles by authors who have ties to their respective tribes. Each book starts with two folktales, one of which is a creation legend. Both volumes conclude with a recipe, a short greeting or prayer in the Native language and English, and a two-page glossary. The intervening chapters follow the same pattern in both books and many of the chapter titles are identical, covering "Key Historical Events," "Way of Life," "Family Life," etc. Both volumes provide some information not found in similar resources, such as mention of the government-mandated killing of Navajo livestock in the 1930s and `40s. However, adherence to a set format leads to occasional unevenness and potential confusion as some subjects are discussed at length while others are given insufficient background. For example, in the discussion of Seminole history in the 1800s, there is reference to "their black allies" with no explanation that the tribe took in runaway slaves. The books include black-and-white and full-color paintings, photos, and reproductions. A general understanding of American history will be helpful. Supplemental purchases.-Darcy Schild, Schwegler Elementary School, Lawrence, KS
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