This Land Is My Land [Hardcover]

George Littlechild (Author)

Book Description

Age Level: 6 and up

Internationally-renowned George Littlechild is a member of the Plains Cree nation. Working as an artist is Littlechild's way of healing the pain of the past and helping the next generation of Indian people. His goal is "to heighten the awareness of the history and experiences of Native peoples and to promote understanding among all peoples". He currently lives and works in Vancouver, Canada.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Bold in size, color and image, this book constitutes a stunning gallery of art by a Native American of singular vision. Through mixed-media paintings featuring collage, traditional motifs, stylized figures and a vibrant Matisse-like palette, Littlechild knits his personal stories together with the histories of his forebears (the Plains Cree) and other Native American peoples. The accompanying large-print text is broken down into 17 brief, reflective essays that interpret symbols, introduce the artist's guiding ancestors and document the struggles that have brought Native Americans to their contemporary culture. Childlike in their joy and wondrous appreciation, yet wise in the way of ancestors who lived through oppression and dismantled lives, this volume offers itself as a bridge between the past's pain and the future's potential. Ages 6-up.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From School Library Journal

Grade 3-6-Littlechild's personal observations and autobiographical memories are woven with snippets of history in this short but powerful book. The author is a member of the Plains Cree Nation, the largest Indian nation in Canada. He grew up in Alberta and makes numerous references to the pain and suffering inflicted on his people. He mentions the fact that children were forcefully taken from parents to be "re-educated" in boarding schools, the cruelty and abuse many encountered there, and the unlawful seizure of land and other acts of injustice. The author's close connection to his immediate past is represented by a series of sepia-toned photographs of his ancestors, incorporated into some of his paintings. His art is powerful, primitive, and childlike in style-large shapes with little detail. He makes bold use of color, employing unusual juxtaposition. And in spite of the deep symbolism, the paintings are playful and fun. Although the information presented here is not in the form that is usually requested for school reports, it is insightful and deeply touching.
Alexandra Marris, Rochester Public Library, NY
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 6 and up
  
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Children's Book Press (June 11, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0892391197
• ISBN-13: 978-0892391196
• Product Dimensions: 12.3 x 9.6 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #667,987 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Teachers need to read the text before an oral presentation, November 27, 2008

By 

D. Rachlin "wunland" (Stow, MA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: This Land Is My Land (Paperback)

This is a gorgeous book. LIttlechild is an incredible artist and memoirist. The texts, which narrate each painting, are very useful for demonstrating the integration of memoir and art in the classroom. Teachers of elementary grades should know that he is very open and honest, using words such as prostitution and alcoholism, when he discusses the plight of urban Indian issues and family matters. My fourth graders were amazed at the art work, and we're hoping to do something similar. He collages photographs of his ancestors and uses bright, bold colors. He is part Cree, as is the singer/educator/artist/activist Buffy Sainte-Marie. Together, his art and her music enhance any study of Native North America.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful, June 10, 2004

By 

M. Pronovost (Boston, MA, United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: This Land Is My Land (Hardcover)

I reviewed this book for circulation in the children's library where I work as an intern. I found it very touching, a first-hand account from a Native American who explains his feelings in a kind, appealing voice for a child. I am purchasing a copy for myself.