The Tree Stand Shining is a collection of poetry by the North American Indians. The poetry is identified as coming from different groups such as the Tewa or the Papago. Many of the poems describe the sights or sounds of nature.

This collection of poetry allows students to explore other cultures. The poems do not contain humor or a lot of immediately familiar experiences, so it may be difficult for students to appreciate the poems at first. However, if used appropriately, teachers can read these poems without deeply analyzing them and help develop appreciation for poetry. This book may not be a good poetry book for first introducing poetry, but it is a good poetry book for expanding understanding of poetry and culture.

GENRE: Poetry

USES:
- use to introduce poetry or teach about Native American culture
- take students on a nature hike and have them write poetry about what they observe using as many of their senses as possible

A beautiful collection of Native American songs, lullabies and poems celebrating nature, life, culture and remembering hardship. With poems set beside cool and warm colored watercolors, the book has a meditative peaceful feel to it.