SERIES MADE SIMPLE

The Lenape

9781624691621. ea vol: 48p. (We Were Here First: The Native Americans). photos. Purple Toad. 2016. lib. ed. $29.95. ebk. $29.95.
COPY ISBN
Gr 4–8—Here are detailed books on various Native American tribes and their traditions, gender roles, pastimes, foods, shelters, and more. The works are full of drama and action, with a colorful and organized design. However, the series has faults. For example, Comanche opens from the perspective of the white Parker family and uses the kidnapping of Cynthia Parker as a narrative thread, failing to provide an alternative to harmful stereotypes. In Cheyenne, amid a discussion about unemployment, the author comments, "Ironically, their reservation sits atop rich coal deposits that could be exploited and provide a profusion of much-needed jobs." This comes across as insensitive, as this is not a viable option for the Cheyenne people.
VERDICT Though well documented and compelling, this series is marred by racial insensitivity.

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