Sunday, February 21, 2010

Traditional Literature Reviews- "All Our Relatives: Traditional Native American Thoughts about Nature"

Bibliography

Goble, Paul. All Our Relatives: Traditional Native 
     American Thoughts about Nature. Bloomington:
     World Wisdom, Inc., 2005. ISBN: 978-094153277.


Plot Summary

“All Our Relatives” discusses different folklore and legends of Native Americans regarding nature.  Goble shares different stories, songs, and phrases, each relating to an animal or part of nature and how the Native Americans have learned and benefitted from each.  He shares a legend of how the crow becomes black, how a woodpecker saved a man from a bear, and how magpies saved the humans from being eaten by buffalo.  Throughout the stories and legends are morals that demonstrate the need to respect and learn from the animals and nature in general.

Critical Analysis

Throughout “All Our Relatives” the reader is shown the beauty and the knowledge that nature provides us.  Goble explores the belief that Native Americans had that people and nature need to live a balanced, respectful relationship.  Excerpts of Native American stories and tidbits of knowledge support each story.  The illustrations, also by Goble, are basic and somewhat reminiscent of cave drawings.  They hold true to the nature of Native Americans and help bring the stories to life.  Goble’s illustrations give the reader a glimpse into the mind of Native Americans.

Review Excerpts

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURANL: “Black Elk, Standing Bear, Brave Buffalo, and others observe the importance of various animals and the sacred qualities of all living things.”

KIRKUS REVIEW: “The stories and the wisdom are strong, and occasionally enchanting.”

Connections

Have the students write and share their thoughts regarding nature.  After the students examine their beliefs, ask them if they think their beliefs align with the Native Americans.

“Sneve's Enduring Wisdom” by Virginia Driving Hawk
“North American Myths & Legens” by Phillip Ardagh
“Native American Mythology A-Z” by Patricia Ann Lynch

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