Walk the Worlds Rim

I read this story aloud to my children, and they were riveted. It is an incredible tale about the true journey of the four survivors (3 Spaniards, one African slave, Esteban) of the Spanish Narváez expedition to Florida, originally a party of over 300 men (or 400 by some accounts). The survivors were enslaved by various Native American tribes of the upper Gulf coast, but they later escape and eventually walk to Mexico City. This book begins after the 4 survivors have escaped the hostile tribes, and are wintering with a friendly tribe of Avares Indians. They are making plans to continue their journey. The chief's 11 year old son, Chakoh, becomes their guide, as he develops a friendship with Esteban and is curious about the "Spanish God" that he believes resides in Mexico City. The story vividly brings to life many Native American cultures, their struggles, and their complex relationships with other tribes and with the "hair faces". Issues of freedom and slavery are raised, as Chakoh is unaware Esteban is a slave for much of the book and continues to make scathing comments about "warriors" who are so weak they become slaves. Issues of greed are raised, as the prospect of gold and turquoise in Cibola make the previously cooperative Spaniards quarrel with each other. This is probably a challenging book for an elementary student to read by him/herself, particularly if he/she has no real interest in Native Americans or Spanish conquests. It is an excellent read-aloud book particularly if done to enliven schoolwork and studies about that period in history. Readers can also do further research on Cabaza de Vaca and other historical figures in this story (Chakoh is apparently fictitious). Those who are willing to take the time to read this book will definitely be richer for it. Spoiler alert: The ending is bittersweet, sensitive children will be disturbed by Esteban's tragic end (true to life). However, Chakoh eventually decides to leave the riches and comfort of Mexico to improve the lives of his starving tribe back home.

Betty Baker picked a difficult period of history to bring forth this fictional book. Early Spaniards explore America after a devastating voyage in which 4 survived out of 600. One of the four is a slave. Along the way, they pick up a young boy from an indian tribe to help guide them. His tribe is starving and he hopes to learn things which will help them later when he becomes the chief. The trail leads them from tribe to tribe and eventually to Mexico. He learns much about life outside his own village. He learns that his best friend is a slave, the lowliest of people in his own mind. Over time, he realizes that slaves can be honorable. The ending is somewhat sad. My 8 year old daughter cried. The book as a whole was well written and worth reading.