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Ages
4-8. Three young boys climb a mountain on a spirit quest, seeking
a dream that will determine their futures. The first dreams of
a black bear; the second, of a white-headed eagle; but the third
dreams only of an acorn. Disappointed, he seeks out the wise
man, who explains that each dream contains its own special gift
and gives the boy an acorn to plant and care for. Several years
later, when the others display great talents and strengths, the
third boy again seeks advice. This time, the elder tells him
to stand as tall as his little tree and contemplate its structure.
Over the years he sees that the tree gives shelter, food, comfort,
and shade to humans, birds, and other creatures. Finally, he
understands his gift--that of providing comfort, kindness, and
shelter to those who seek him out. The framed text appears against
brightly colored chalk drawings on each double-page spread. The
quiet scenes, dappled with color, match the mood and flow of
this fictional tale. Although the story is not a true Native
American legend, the concept of a spirit quest is part of many
tribal rites. Chinook vocabulary words appear at the beginning.
Deborah Abbott |