Turquoise Boy

Rating:
Summary: A Native American Legend
Review: "Turquoise Boy: A Navajo Legend" is a part of the "Native American Legends" series. The presentation of the legend makes it accessible to readers while maintaining an accurate image of the Navajo culture. The illustrations use warm colors and geometric shapes and symbols common in the Navajo world. The text is a delightful retelling of a traditional Navajo legend. Turquoise Boy, the son of Sun Bearer and Changing Woman (Navajo spirits of creation), goes in search of a way to make the life of his people easier. He travels across the Navajo world and implores the Holy Ones, his father above (Sun Bearer-the sun), and Mirage Man below to help the People. Mirage Man shows Turquoise Boy a secret gift, and the People participate in a ceremony to bring the gift forth.

This book is a beautiful way to learn about the Navajo culture. The retelling of traditional legends are such an important part of preserving any culture, and this series has made us all participants in a wider American culture. I would recommend the whole series as well as the books from the "Legends of the World" series.