Powwow

This beautiful photo-essay captures the essence of the Native American powwow. "The unity of the many tribes engaged in the ceremony, the sense of family, and the cherishing of actively participating children are all themes young people will appreciate. A lively, positive portrayal of contemporary Native Americans."--Kirkus Reviews

Grade 3-5-- Feathers, beads, fringe, paint, bells, and shawls--these are the images that first bombard a spectator at a Native American powwow. But what does it all mean? Ancona provides an introduction to the modern powwow that explains everything. Focusing on the Crow Fair in Montana, he takes readers through the standard events that one can see at almost any powwow across the country, whether on a reservation or in the city. A time of visiting friends and being with other Indian people, the outings are also a chance for dancers to strut their stuff and compete against their peers. Young Anthony Standing Rock is shown playing with friends and then getting dressed in his traditional dance outfit. The festivities, beginning with the opening "parade" called the Grand Entry and on through the standard dances, are described and illustrated with well-placed, full-color photos that clearly reflect the text. Participants and spectators are also shown buying fries and drinks at one of the many concession stands. An exquisite kaleidoscope of Native American music, customs, and crafts. --Lisa Mitten, University of Pittsburgh, PA
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

From Kirkus Reviews

Capturing the flash and rhythm of Native American dances as performed during a ``pan-Indian'' Crow Fair in Montana, photographer Ancona is at his experienced best. Featured here is Anthony Standing Rock, a boy transformed from T-shirted kid to warrior-dancer; but the real focus is on the on four kinds of dancers--Traditional, Fancy, Grass, and Jingle-dress--and on the grace and excitement of their performances. Complementary photos and text are skillfully interwoven to explain the customary clothing, the dances' different styles, and the pride and honor the rituals convey. Particularly moving are some individual ceremonies: a giveaway of items for an honored dancer; a family dance to welcome a little girl into the ranks of the dancers. The unity of the many tribes engaged in the ceremony, the sense of family, and the cherishing of actively participating children are all themes young people will appreciate. A lively, positive portrayal of contemporary Native Americans. (Nonfiction. 6-12) -- Copyright ©1993, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.