The Mud Pony (1988) is retold by Caron Lee Cohen in this traditional Skidi Pawnee tale. I'm not familiar enough with the culture to summarize this story. In the acknowledgements the author writes, "This version of The Mud Pony was adapted from a longer story in the collection of George A. Dorsey, who recorded the traditions and tales of the Skidi Pawnee between 1899 and 1902. It was told to him by Yellow-Calf." The illustrations by Shanto Begay have a dreamy textured quality. This "ancient boy-hero" story shares the Pawnee belief that, despite a lowly origin, there is a path to honor.
I try to select books that perhaps don't require extensive background knowledge to understand. I'm worried that I will unintentionally misrepresent the depth of more complex narratives. I think that The Mud Pony will introduce readers to Pawnee legacy without leaving them lost and confused.
Casey Nestor has Native Americans Smart Board Lessons. Jersey Girl Gone South has Pawnee American Indians of the Plains PowerPoint.
