graphic format, compilation of Native American stories (in my limited understanding, "legends" are generally held as "true" in the same way that Bible stories are regarded), by indigenous writers and a variety of artists, some of whom are indigenous as well.

cool collection, lovely art and storytelling. would like to see more indigenous artists in future! ( )

I get a crack at the things my spouse picks up in the Graphic Novel section of our library. I appreciate getting to see what he finds. This was a very disconnected collection, it was interesting to compare the stories to each other. The best ones had a distinct storyteller's voice. The art varied widely as well. I found I had to make an effort to read the ones that had art I didn't care for. ( )

This graphic novel contains renditions of Native American folklore. The folklore contains Pourquoi tales explaining natural phenomena. Some of the stories are Trickster tales where a Crow or a Racoon outsmart the other characters. Most are Beast tales featuring animals as the major characters. This graphic novel is a great way to help reluctant readers engage in reading and learning about cultural heritage. Getting used to the graphic novel format may take time for readers used to a standard novel layout, but the unique pictures and style of writing is engaging. This book has won several awards including the 2011 Aesop Prize.

This is definitely a good book for kids and young adults, but it is not exclusively for those two groups. I think adults will enjoy it as well. Personally, it reminded me of some folktales books I read when I was young back in Puerto Rico. One of the tales, the one where the bunny tricks the wolf so the rabbit can ride him as a horse is very similar to a tale we have where a rabbit does the same trick to a tiger (there is no love interest though in our tale). So if anything, maybe some themes are common and universal. And that is something pretty apparent in this collection which revolves around the theme of the trickster figure, a figure that at times can be heroic, good or evil, or mischievous; he (usually the trickster is male it seems) may win or lose, but in the end the story has some kind of lesson or message.

The stories are told by various Native American folks and storytellers (you can get their biographical notes at the end of the volume), and they are very nicely illustrated. Since we have different artists, you get exposure to various art styles, styles that do complement the stories nicely. The book makes a nice and accessible introduction to Native American tales. And in addition, this collection is certainly a nice breath of fresh air so to speak, something different to pick up if you happen to enjoy graphic novels and want something that is not just superheroes. ( )

I LOVE this book. I borrowed it on a whim after seeing it at on a library display. It sat on our library book shelf at home for a week, then right before it was due I picked it up. The kids were got interested since it is in graphic novel format. We picked a few comics to read a night. I've since ordered copies to donate to schools. I hope another compilation is in the works. ( )