Red Cloud: Sioux War Chief

School Library Journal

Gr 6-9Lazar describes Red Cloud's leadership qualities, oratorical skills, pride in his heritage, tenacity, and the effect of his leadership on the conflict between the Indians and the U.S. government in the late 1800s. The author objectively shows how, in several instances, simple or preventable mistakes led to aggression on the part of both sides. Yet, in describing other incidents, such as Colonel John M. Chivington's apparently unprovoked massacre of Cheyenne warriors, he clearly sides with the Indians. This book, like others in the series, provides both introductory and research material. Pertinent quotations enlighten readers about the subject's character. However, a couple of minor problems mar the book's total impact: when giving dates, the author occasionally leaves off the year, so students must check back to another page for it, and there are no maps. Many excellent black-and-white reproductions appear throughout, giving a clear picture of Red Cloud and of Native American life at the time.Phyllis Graves, Creekwood Middle School, Kingwood, TX