When the weather changes and the ever-falling snow threatens to engulf all the animals, it is Crow who flies up to receive the gift of fire from the Great Sky Spirit.

This is a beautiful story about how crows got their black, iridescent wings and their raspy, cracked caws. In the story, Rainbow Crow, volunteers to visit the spirit in the sky to put an end to the snowfall that was threatening the other animals. All the sky spirit was able to do was give him fire to bring down to the earth and melt the snow. During his journey back, the coal from the fire stained his beautiful, rainbow feathers and the smoke from the fire ruined his beautiful, musical voice.

This was probably one of my favorite reads this week because of the pretty illustration, the songs on all of the pages, and my love of birds (especially crows). ( )

A beautiful retelling of a Native American legend on how Crow came to be with his black iridescent colors and this harsh crowing voice.

This particular edition started off on an introduction who the Lenape are as this is one of their stories. It gives historical and cultural information on them before then going to provide some interesting facts about crows so children have a background of both. What I find funny is that one of the given crow facts states crows belong to the same family as ravens but then the author makes the comment that Crow and Raven are the same when they are clearly not (in most cases I would count down for this incorrect information but since of the story itself I will give it its full due).

The illustrations are so beautiful in this book with the bright colors, the realistic animals and the attention to detail. There is nothing missing for the reader who just may want to skim through the pages first. And what really caught my eye is there is a two-page spread of Crow sitting in the tree at the beginning of the story and also at the end but the changes to him can be seen.

The story is a bit lengthy so not perfect for very young children but older children may enjoy the story. The reading is clear and easy while giving the reader a chance to learn about the animal characters of the Lenape such as sly Coyote. The one that intrigues me is why, though, do they think that Raccoon would end up following his tail?

And finally the book ends with some questions for children to answer about the book and the idea of making a mobile based off of characters in the book if parents so wish. Altogether a wonderful book that will warm children with a very important message that our losses to sacrifice may not be actual losses upon looking at them from another viewpoint. ( )

The story of crow is a staple of many North American native peoples. This wonderful Promethean tale is beautiful with beautiful illustrations. This is a Native American story about why Crow is black with a scratchy voice. Crow is an important totem to many tribes, and I think incorporating the folklore of the people students are studying is another important way to understand who they are. I also think it's important to explaining to children how many folktales are often times the result of people witnessing natural events, and making up stories to explain it. LOVE this book. I have a deep personal connection to crows so I really loved this book. I'll admit, I cried.
Reading Level: 3.9 Interest Level: K-3 ( )

This is a very bright and colorful book. It talks about courage and selflessness through the story of a crow. It will teach great lessons to young children. ( )