The Animals Speak: The Lakota Way

Lakota creator Nelson (Grandma’s Tipi) kicks off this lively connection-oriented survey of animals and their characteristics with a line describing the Lakota Way: “If you look with your eyes and listen with your ears, our animal relatives will share their ancient wisdom with you. A spirit line connects us as we journey together.” The following spreads each focus on a specific animal (named both in English and translated into the Lakota by Dakota Goodhouse), as well as its traits, ending with qualities that readers might emulate. “Strong” buffalo, used in the making of clothes and tipis as well as for nourishment, “guides us to SHARE and BE GENEROUS.” The hummingbird, “like a tiny, whizzing whirlwind,” teaches readers to act “with great ENERGY and STRENGTH.” Per an author’s note, Lakota pictographs and ledger-book drawings inspired the acrylic illustrations that appear throughout, which are layered with organic textures and outlined shapes. A raccoon, drawn amid blue spirals, eats an ear of corn; a mother bear watches over two cubs surrounded by lines of movement; and animalia and human figures recur throughout. Just right for the youngest readers, it’s an enjoyable work that incorporates a range of beings and teachings to “prepare us for the joys and challenges in this wondrous and mysterious world.” Ages 4–8. (Mar.)