Nez Percé Chief Joseph

July 1, 2013

Gr 4-8-Originally published in 1994 under the series name "Native American Leaders of the Wild West," these books have been slightly modified and updated. The titles now reflect the subjects' specific tribal names and the word "chief" is used instead of "warrior." Unfortunately, the unappealing cover art remains the same, stereotypically depicting red-faced warriors on horseback with weapons. Many photographs have been replaced or updated with clearer, more accurate ones. In the case of Crazy Horse, speculative photographs have been replaced with other primary-source material and drawings. Each book has nine short chapters of accessible text, serviceable for introductory reports, particularly for struggling readers. The black-and-white format and deliberately easy sentences will not inspire and/or excite readers. "The Crow fired, hitting Sitting Bull in the foot. With one blow of his lance, Sitting Bull knocked his foe from his horse. Sitting Bull drew his knife. He then killed the Crow, avenging his father's death." Purchase only if you have demand.-Madeline J. Bryant, Los Angeles Public Library

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July 1, 2013
These brief biographies of seven legendary Native American leaders strive for historical accuracy but suffer from flat prose and unfortunate choices of cover illustrations. Reluctant readers may be attracted by the short, simply written chapters, which are profusely illustrated with black-and-white photographs and reproductions. The books have all been previously published under different titles and a different series name. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

(Copyright 2013 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)