GROWING UP INDIAN

by Evelyn Wolfson ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 1, 1986

A look backward to North American Indian children's lives two centuries ago. The question-and-answer format serves to draw topics together, some expected, some pleasantly surprising: family size; toys and games; ways children were praised, embarrassed, taught the rules; how babies were diapered before Pampers. Behavior patterns fascinate (such as name-changing throughout life), and readers learn that Indians gave us lacrosse, football and bowling. The history is weakened, however, by inadequate introduction: the time period is not clearly set, and questions leap out abruptly, assuming knowledge (e.g., the first question is ""What is a cradleboard?""). Serviceable illustrations extend the information in the text. Incisive analysis of the tragic exploitation suffered by the clans and tribes, in combination with spirited coverage of happy family life, makes the material even more useful.

Pub Date: Oct. 1, 1986

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: 96

Publisher: Walker

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 15, 1986

Categories: CHILDREN'S