WEAVE LITTLE STARS INTO MY SLEEP

Using the same format as in his previous collections of Native American literature (A Braid of Lives, 2000, etc.), Philip pairs his 15 translations of various tribes’ lullabies with sepia-toned historical photographs of Native Americans. The tribe of the lullaby and that of the individuals photographed are indicated on the elegantly laid-out pages—often the same tribe is depicted in both picture and word. An endnote gives a little background on lullabies in Native American cultures, and Philip describes the kind of liberties he allowed himself in his translation. While he has “tried not to transgress the spirit or the meaning of any of the source texts,” he admits reworking some of the verses into a more recognizable form. They do become beautiful translations in our ears, but not necessarily ones that will be useful for learning about a tribe’s art forms—though sophisticated researchers can follow Philip’s sources, which are well-documented. As there is no music (nor discussion of music) here, it is also unlikely that parents would use this as a source for lullabies to sing to their children; nor will the design or text appeal to many children on a purely literary basis. Despite its potentially appealing subject, and obviously careful treatment and documentation, the readership for this title will be limited with children. For specialized collections or adult interest only. (Nonfiction. 8+)