Spider Spins a Story: Fourteen Legends from Native America

This book is a collection of 14 short and simple tales from various Native American groups. Each tail ties into the Spider motif that weaves its way to the Native American oral traditions. The authors and presenters are an aggregate of storytellers and various writers. Even the editor Jill Max is actually a pseudonym of the team if Ronia K. Davidson and Kelly Bennett. Each tail is simple and geared toward the young reader of grade two and up. It starts out with a few Paragraphs explaining the particular culture the story is being told by and for. These include Kiowa, Tewa, Zuni, Wiyat, Osage, Muskogee, Navaho, Achomawi, Cherokee, Hopi, Cheyene, and Lakatoa. Not being that familiar with the different cultures I can not vouch for the authenticity of the different color paintings that accompany the stories, however they add a visual plus for the young reader.

Spider Spins a Story connects Native American tribes together with 14 various tales, all involving a spider. Preceding each legend is a brief history and description of the tribe associated with each story. Muskogee, Cheyenne, Kiowa, Hopi, Cherokee, Navajo, and Osage tribes, as well as others, are mentioned in the book. Full of colorful, gorgeous illustrations by 6 Native American artists, the book is also endorsed by tribal authorities. It appeals to both children and adults with its wonderful storytelling of Native American customs and lore. It is also a great reference to the past history and beliefs of Native American life. The brilliant colors used in the illustrations are particularly appealing and remind the reader of fine Native American art. The Gilcrease Museum, located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, was an excellent choice for the detailed research needed to write this spectacular book. Spider Spins a Story is a perfect gift for all ages.