The scattered, realistic black and white pencil drawings by Brian Pinkney pay appropriate tribute to both the stories and the words of Rosebud Yellow Robe. Ages 6 to adult. Joseph Bruchac, story teller and writer, is of Abenaki, English and Slovak ancestry. He is a man who follows the old ways, honoring tradition by storytelling only between first and last frosts. His latest collection, Native American Animal Stories , tells twenty-four myths from nineteen Peoples that show Bruchac's tribute to nature, his Native American heritage, and to his powerful gift of communication.
Tones vary from funny, or sad, to hopeful and the characters range from brave to loving to reckless.
In each there shines a learning, but it is always shown and never told. Ages 8- adult. Bruchac also has recorded two tapes to accompany the book. Flute and percussion pieces add to the experience and Bruchac's gentle, but dramatic voice is poignant. One warning, do not walk while listening, their truths and eloquence may knock you off your feet.