A fascinating look at the social, spiritual, and ecological significance of the banyan tree in the life of an Indian village. The banyan tree in the center of the village is known as the ``many-footed one'' because its aerial roots form pillars when they touch the ground and take hold. The tree expands to form a virtual forest, and under its canopy, life thrives. The banyan is a place for egrets to nest, villagers to barter, owlets to sleep, children to play, monkeys to chase each other, bats to feed, elders to meet. In this entry in the Tree Tales series, readers come to appreciate the value of the banyan, and to gain a glimpse of the interconnectedness of all living creatures. Bash (Ancient Ones, 1994, etc.) has created a harmonious story, written out in calligraphy and warmly, colorfully illustrated with authentic scenes that firmly root this tree's importance in the facts. (Picture book/nonfiction. 6-10)
Pub Date: Sept. 1, 1996
ISBN: 0-87156-575-7
Page Count: 32
Publisher: N/A
Review Posted Online: May 19, 2010
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 1, 1996
Sloat collaborates with Huffman, a Yu’pik storyteller, to infuse a traditional “origins” tale with the joy of creating. Hearing the old women of her village grumble that they have only tasteless crowberries for the fall feast’s akutaq—described as “Eskimo ice cream,” though the recipe at the end includes mixing in shredded fish and lard—young Anana carefully fashions three dolls, then sings and dances them to life. Away they bound, to cover the hills with cranberries, blueberries, and salmonberries. Sloat dresses her smiling figures in mixes of furs and brightly patterned garb, and sends them tumbling exuberantly through grassy tundra scenes as wildlife large and small gathers to look on. Despite obtrusively inserted pronunciations for Yu’pik words in the text, young readers will be captivated by the action, and by Anana’s infectious delight. (Picture book/folktale. 6-8)
Pub Date: June 1, 2004
ISBN: 0-88240-575-6
Page Count: 32
Publisher: N/A
Review Posted Online: May 19, 2010
Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 1, 2004
BOOK REVIEW
BOOK REVIEW
BOOK REVIEW
At ``Step 2'' in the useful ``Step into Reading'' series: an admirably clear, well-balanced presentation that centers on wolves' habits and pack structure. Milton also addresses their endangered status, as well as their place in fantasy, folklore, and the popular imagination. Attractive realistic watercolors on almost every page. Top-notch: concise, but remarkably extensive in its coverage. A real bargain. (Nonfiction/Easy reader. 6-10)
Pub Date: April 1, 1992
ISBN: 0-679-91052-2
Page Count: 48
Publisher: Random House
Review Posted Online: May 19, 2010
Kirkus Reviews Issue: March 15, 1992
BOOK REVIEW
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