The Boy Who Made Dragonfly: A Zuni Myth (Paperback)

~ (Author), Janet Grado (Illustrator)

Editorial Reviews

Review

Although this book is an excellent one for children of all ages, it should not be reserved solely for them. An impressive work . . .

Product Description

Retells a Zuäni myth in which a young boy and his sister gain the wisdom that makes them leaders of their people through the intercession of a dragonfly.

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Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 4-8
  
• Paperback: 87 pages
• Publisher: University of New Mexico Press (July 1, 1986)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0826309100
• ISBN-13: 978-0826309105
• Product Dimensions: 7.8 x 5.5 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (7 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #163,762 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

23 of 23 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This Dragonfly Soars, January 11, 2001

By	Diana Burns (CA USA) - See all my reviews

This retelling of a Zuni tale is very refreshing....an excellent book to share with your children. The story is strong in its content, and the life examples of cause and effect, how one behavior causes negative results, and how a positive behavior can cause a positive result.

This legend brings the reader into the lives of an ancient people, and one young boy. You share the journey, and rejoice in the conclusion.

I have shared this book with many friends, all of whom enjoyed the book.

I would compare this book, in quality of writing and content, to Mary Stewart's "A Walk In Wolf Wood".

7 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Good for kids or adults, March 17, 2003

By	Gary Sprandel (Frankfort, Kentucky) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

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Hillerman brings to life this story from the Zuni, a Pueblo People of New Mexico. As the cover jacket says, this is "intended to teach both history and morality of a people", like an Old Testament story. The strength of the young boy who constructs a toy insect out of corn, is both touching and has lessons for us now in how we treat others and our resources. The drawings by Janet Grado, add nicely to the story, particularly the portraits of the corn maidens and the old woman. Although suitable for children, fans of Toni Hillerman will also enjoy this.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars excellent for adults and children, February 22, 2007

By	Deborah M. Peterson (Houston, Tx) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

We bought this for our daughter since she loves dragonflies. Tony Hillerman has wrote many good books for adults and we thought we would try this children's book. It is a Zuni story of creation and has good morals and teaches how we should live and not be greedy. I recommend this book for all.