Anpao: An American Indian Odyssey

What an incredible, in-depth leap into the world of Native American mythology. While there are certainly plenty of collections of Indian folk tales, this one manages to make a single boy the hero of so many--truly, "odyssey" is the best way to describe the book. Anpao is still treated as a real, soulful character, but Highwater still writes in the simple, beautiful way that well-suits the stories.

Anapo, is by far one of the most enthralling books of all time. Each time it is read a new sence of existance and peacefullness fills the reader. There is never a dull moment while Anpao journeys to the sun to ask permission to marry his one true indian princess love, and on the way discovers himself with the help of many of nature's friends, and lessons. All the American Indian legends are mixed together perfectly to make this a story that can be read again and again and passed through generations!

As a 6th grade teacher, I first learned of ANPAO through a children's literature course. I was enthralled by the Native American (Blackfoot) culture and how Jamake Highwater used it to weave a tale of love, adventure, and history into one book. This past school year was the 5th time I have shared it with my children. It didn't matter what their reading levels were, they loved it, we shared it, and some, went out and purchased their own copies of it. You know something had an impact when a student, who wasn't necessarily the most proficient reader, relates something in his life to the characater long after the novel was completed. "That's something that Anpao would have done." I strongly suggest that all teachers of 6th grade reading or social studies, share this novel with their children.

In my opinion, this book has a meaning like no other book I read. The meaning is easy to follow and is true. It makes you wonder how awful this world became after all these diseases and war broke out. This book should be read by all students from elementary school to college. It is an extraordinary book. Just have an open mind when you read it and you'll dive into the book like it is really happening right now in present times, in your presence. In conclusion, this book should be the top.

The numerous charactors and situations that Anpao, the protagonist, faces give the old Native American beliefs on topics such as the creation story and the settleing of the white man in the new world. Anpao's long journey brinds him to the mighty Sun god so he can ask a young princess' hand in marriage. It just so happens that Anpao is the god's son. The charactors were written very cleverly wiht the use of personification which brings a deep respect for the animals and the land in the Native American beliefs. Anpao's journey is fantastic and is one that will be memorable for the years to come