Growing up Indian

Children's Literature - Gisela Jernigan

While the last chapter of this book is quite good, most of the book is too general and a bit confusing with overgeneralizations and inaccuracies. For example, many Native American religious activities were communal and practiced as a group; they were not all personal and private as noted on page 54. The illustrations are not clearly labeled; for example, in referencing the Hopi hairstyles that show a girl transition into womanhood, it is not clear which is which. The book also implies that newlyweds lived with the wife's family, whereas many tribes were and still are patrilocal, that is the newlyweds lived with or near the husband's family. Wolfson is the author of From Abenaki to Zuni, which also has factual errors as noted in a previous review. 1997 (orig.

School Library Journal

Gr 4-7 A look at the way in which Indian children grew up ``long ago'' (no time period is mentioned). In a question and answer format, Wolfson covers the care of babies, discipline, schooling, toys, games, and the process of entering adulthood. In answering each question Wolfson makes general statements first, following with specific practices of selected individual tribes. Besides offering variety, this format shows readers how the influence of tradition, geography, and environment affected certain practices. Origins of superstitions, religious practices, and philosophies are woven throughout the book. The final chapter deftly explains the effect that life on reservations has had on the perpetuation of tribal customs, religions, education, and tradition. An up-to-date list of accessible suggested readings and a bibliography will lead children to additional readings on Indian history, literature, crafts, games and habitats. Bock supports the text with detailed pen-and-ink illustrations. Browsers as well as report writers may be drawn to the book due to its inviting layout. Wolfson gives children a chance to see the individuality of a people while recognizing the universal qualities in everyone. Cynthia Dobrez, Oak Lawn Public Library, Ill.