Stories from Native North America

A collection of stories of Native peoples and organized according to the region of 16 North America cultures from which they originate. Each story is a journey to discovery told the way a storyteller would tell them. Classroom use could be coming of age, discussing culture, and heritage. ( )

Summary: A large collection of Native American stories that focuses on the traditional role men play in Native American culture. Mainly focuses on the large step between boys becoming men, and exploring what that transition into manhood means in Native American culture. Smaller print, larger vocabulary of words used, best for older teens or young adults.

Personal commentary/ reflection: I like short stories, especially ones that come from a unique place like Native American culture, because it's a chance to get exposed to something new that you don't have to invest an inordinate amount of time in! These short stories were a perfect little taste of such literature, and I liked the theme of what manhood means to Native Americans. ( )

Summary: The light-haired boy: Lakota
Curly is a young boy who is light and curly haired. His people, the Lakota, talked about him in
reference to the fact that he did not look like the rest of them. His people were in threat of war
so Curly went to seek a vision for help. He did not do the proper ceremonies in acquiring his
vision so it was not accepted and he was forced to keep it to himself. Time passed and when
they were in more dire need his father accepted the vision and Curly told all his people about it.
He saw his future and saw himself as a great warrior that was untouched by bullets and was
brave, always at the front lines. So his father, with pride, renamed him in his own name,
Tashunka Witco. This name became famous because of the warrior’s bravery, his name in
english was Crazy Horse.
Comments:
This book should be used to share the native american culture to the students. The students should know about all cultures and from culturally accurate books. ( )

Winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Native Writers Circle of the Americas, Joseph Bruchac is an Abenaki Indian who tells his stories with a distinct Native American perspective; therefore adding a more personal voice to his stories. ‘Flying with the Eagle, Racing the Great Bear’ consists of sixteen Native American stories from all across America. Each story is heart-felt as Bruchac details the emotional journey a boy takes into adulthood; through arduous rites of passages, they must gather their strength, intelligence, and endurance to face the challenges they have been given; learning the means to survival and collaboration. The author skillfully intertwines knowledge of Native American cultures with interesting adventures; thus capturing the attention of younger audiences. I highly recommend this book to young children and teens who are interested in learning about Native American culture ( )