Booklist Review

Gr. 3^-5. These titles in the uneven True Books--American Indians series describe tribal history, family life, the impact of white settlement, and contemporary life on the reservation. Numerous color photos (and a few poorly reproduced paintings) show tribal land and traditional housing as well as contemporary scenes at school, work, and in ceremonial regalia. The books are visually inviting, and the topic is of great interest to intermediate students. Unfortunately, though, much of the information echoes that found in social studies textbooks, and the books are told from an outsider's perspective, missing an opportunity for native peoples to tell their own stories. The Cheyenne, another new book in the series, is not recommended as it contains historical errors and some misleading statements. For example, the text reads, "Cheyenne warriors joined in the attack on the U.S. army at the Battle of Little Big Horn"; in fact, Custer and his troops attacked the Indians camped on the Little Big Horn, and the Indians fought to defend themselves. Also, the books on the Hopi and the Navajo offer more contemporary photos and richer descriptions of culture than the volume on the Cheyenne. Teachers can use recommended titles as supplementary material; they may want to choose sections and particular photos to share with their students. --Karen Hutt