Counting Coup: Becoming a Crow Chief on the Reservation and Beyond

I read this to my boys at bedtime. It was a great read! It is kind of kid friendly and written to a younger audience, yet it is an important work of literature.

Counting Coup is an interesting book, and an important one I think. Joseph Medicine Crow is the "last traditional Crow chief" and this is his story. Dr. Medicine Crow discusses his family, his schooling, his days as a soldier, he also tells us a little about Crow mythology which is really interesting, and for what it's worth, I believe him. I particularly like the story called "Stealing a Beef," and his description of his warrior training which includes running barefoot in the snow. Although the book is short and there is a whole lot more that could be said, it's worth reading. This book is great for a younger audience or adults looking to get acquainted with Crow culture.

Mr. Medicine Crow is an impressive man, about 90 years old now. The book is written in the brief and blunt sentences as he would speak English. He lived up to the old ways of the Crow when he stole fifty German horses from under their noses in World War II. A landmark in Indian literature.

This book is made up of several short story snippets from the life of Joseph Medicine Crow. The intended audience was young adult, though certainly an adult like myself can enjoy it, too. Of course, because the stories are very short and to the point, one can't help but feel that there is so much more that could have been included here. The author tells brief stories about his formative years and his time in WWII. Good, easy reading for an overnight trip, but it might leave you wanting more.

Joe Medicine Crow is a national treasure. Born on the Crow Reservation in the early years of the twentieth century, he was raised among Indians who lived during the buffalo hunting days. Grandparents Medicine Crow and Yellowtail were important Crow leaders whose homes were the place of many gatherings. Joe soaked up the stories like a sponge, and he has been an invaluable source of tribal stories. In this book, in particular, he talks about his own upbringing, as his people's traditions adapted to life in America in the new century. He writes of his life using compassion and humor, but the difficulties he faced are clear. That he has led such a strong life is testimony to the fine man that he is. I found this book tremendously enjoyable, and the glimpse it gave me into this forgotten era is priceless.