HOW RABBIT LOST HIS TAIL-A Traditional Cherokee Legend (The Grandmother Stories Vol. 3)

Childhood Education, Spring 2005 by Tait, Melanie

Duvall, Deborah L. HOW RABBIT LOST HIS TAIL-A Traditional Cherokee Legend (The Grandmother Stories Vol. 3). Il. by Murv Jacob. ISBN0-8263-3010X. Albuquerque, NM: University of New Mexico Press, 2003. 28pp. $14.95. This is a delightful retelling of a Cherokee legend explaining how the rabbit lost his long, luxurious tail and how the otter became sleek and learned to love swimming. It also teaches valuable lessons about pride, deceit, and justice. The story is told in language simple enough for young independent readers, but would make an entertaining read aloud as well. The beautifully detailed black-and-white illustrations capture the essence of the story and set the scene for the traditional tale. Even the cover background and endpapers are intriguing. This book would be of particular interest to young people learning about or celebrating Native American cultures. Ages 6-12. Reviewed by Melanie Tait, York University, Toronto, ON

Reviewed by Melanie Tait, York University, Toronto, ON