Native Artists of North America

Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly

First in the new Rainbow Warrior Artists series, endorsed by an organization of the same name that supports the preservation of Native cultures, this bright and busy volume focuses on five Native American artists, each from a different tribe: two painters, a dollmaker, a flute player and a dancer. Each section includes an interview with the respective artist, full-color photographs of his or her works and home environments, and a comment directed at children (``My message to children,'' says one artist, ``is to honor who you are and to appreciate who you are'') and a hands-on activity, such as making a yarn paintings, beading seeds or making a clapping-stick. Moore conveys a sense for the personalities of the five, giving the book spontaneity. Accordingly, some political statements are issued by these creative people who are deeply connected to their traditions and to the earth (``My work is intended to bring attention to those things that are destroying our culture'') An interesting interactive book that will be welcomed into any multicultural curriculum, Moore's offering is laid out almost like an extended magazine article--a design likely to hold its readers' attentions. Ages 8-up. (June)