"A Salish Coyote Story: Beaver Steals Fire" /// Traditional Legend

"A Salish Coyote Story: Beaver Steals Fire" is exemplary choice for a traditional Aboriginal legend. Collectively, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes put together this book, with the final version being authored by Johnny Arlee, a native Salish speaker. The book also acknowledges that the story represents "thousands of years of oral tradition"(Salish and Kootenai Tribes, 2005). The artist of this book comes from a a tribal First Nations community, but does not specifically state which tribe he identifies with.

After looking at this book, it is apparent that this piece of literature is one not to be missed. It is a beautiful educational tale, that aims to impart knowledge about the gift, signficance, and power of fire. It tells the story of the Coyote, who comes up with a tricky plan to steal fire, before it has become part of life on earth.

One noteable aspect of this book is that it begins with a "Note to The Reader" which asks that the story is not shared aloud outside of wintertime months, in keeping with historical traditions. In this way, the reader is already warned of the sacred nature that the story holds.The other noteable aspect of this book is that there is Salish language include, along with an explanation and description of the words and sounds used in the book. This proves to be a great educational tool.

Overall, this book is a truly authentic telling of an Aboriginal legend, complete with a plethora of glowing reviews by popular critics such as Bloomsbury Review, as well as First Nations representatives alike. Debbie Reese, a well known authoritative figure when it comes to analyzing First Nations material, has this book listed in her "Top 10" books for 2010. Plus, this title won the American Indian Youth Literature Award, which honors the best Aboriginal books published every 2 years. In sum, every educator and parent needs to have a copy of "Beaver Steals Fire" and if possible, get a hold of the additional materials that can accompany the book, including an interactive DVD, lesson plans, and a website which gives information about the Salish and Kootenai Tribes' use of fire.

References:

Confederated Salish., Kootenai Tribes., Arlee, J., & Sandoval, S. (Illustrator). (2005). A Salish coyote story: Beaver steals fire. Lincoln: University of  Nebraska Press.