This story is beautifully illustrated. I originally looked at it because I thought it was illustrated by Kadir Nelson, but learned otherwise. It was illustrated by S.D. Nelson who is a member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. This story tells of Crazy Horse's life and his prophetic vision, "keep nothing for yourself." It describes how he got his name from his father, and became a great leader. I would definitely recommend this for any classroom. ( )

This book recounts the story of how the Lakota chief Crazy Horse received his name, as told in Lakota legends. The story is well written and authentic to the legend if not necessarily the historical facts. S.D. Nelson's illustrations are extremely vibrant and eye-catching, and he is an award-winning author and artist in his own right, in addition to illustrating this book. This book is worth it for the artwork alone, and it makes a nice addition to any kind of mythology or folklore set for younger readers. ( )

I picked this as one of my social study picture books because it’s one of the only picture books about any Native Americans I’ve found at the Red White and Blue Store. It shows Crazy Horse on his vision quest, where he becomes a man, and leads his people in battles and Sioux rituals, no matter the price. It also shows the trail of tears, which I think is important to introduce to elementary kids. ( )

Accompanied by ledger style paintings inspired by the Plains Indians, an Abenaki Indian tells the compelling story of how a young boy named Curly seeks a vision in the hope of saving his people and grows into the brave and fierce warrior, Crazy Horse.

Summary of the book
Crazy Horse's Vision by Joseph Bruchac and illustrated by S.D. Nelson is a great book. It tells the story of Curly, a Lakota Indian boy, and a natural born leader. He was brave and strong even as a young boy. He lived during the traditional Native American period and his tribe was facing changing times with Army moving in nearby to keep the peace between Lakotas and Whites. The killing of a cow prompted US forces involvement and began a battle in which Chief Conquering Bear was killed. Curly sought vision from his ancestors and granted such. The vision told him to, "keep nothing for yourself" and Curly moved onto to become the great leader he was destined to by and became known as Crazy Horse, his father gave him his own name.

Personal reaction to the book
I truly enjoyed reading about Crazy Horse. As a Native American Child there weren't many books that portrayed Natives in a traditional way, that didn't involve their slaughter, at least that I was exposed to. The illustrations are colorful and aid in bringing the story to life.

Classroom Extension Ideas
1. I would use this book as an introduction to Native American studies.
2. In the classroom, have students cut, color, and paste a Crazy Horse template of him on top of his horse.
3. I would use a template, sticks, and a base and allow older students to build a traditional tepee (miniature size). ( )