The Children of the Morning Light: Wampanoag Tales as Told By Manitonquat
This inspired collection, the children's book debut of its author and illustrator, explores the cultural traditions and history of the Wampanoag, a Native American tribe from Massachusetts. Manitonquat (Medicine Story), a Wampanoag elder, spiritual leader and storyteller, narrates 11 sparkling tales, many set down in print for the first time. Rich in meaning and flashing with humor, the entries begin with "Song of Creation," in which Kishtannit, the Big Spirit, sings up time, space and movement, followed by the sun, moon and ocean. Subsequent tales measure human experience--the dilemma of death, war, the four seasons, migration--and beneath the dancing language lies a thought-provoking solemnity. Arquette, supplying full-page acrylics interspersed throughout the volume, captures her subjects--both earthly and divine--in an unusual combination of softly smudged contours and bold starkness. This mixture of natural and supernatural faithfully reflects the text. Ages 6-up.Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.