Read this book in Granite’s Sora
Written by Traci Sorell, Illustrated by Weshoyot Alvitre
In beautiful, simple poetry, this book shows a Cherokee family of women, waiting for their loved one, a daughter, to return home from war. The family gathers in a cabin, built under a large hickory tree, at the base of an even bigger mountain. There is food baking in the warm oven, grandma weaving multi colored strands of yarn, and the family worrying and singing of their loved one, soaring in a plane, to protect and defend freedom. And within the plane a woman prays for peace and the chance to return home.
This is a beautiful book with colorful illustrations that suit the poetry. The cover is especially eye-catching – I think many kids will wonder if this book is about a giant hovering over the mountain! But the inside of the book points to a more subtle meaning. This is an especially appropriate book for November, celebrating Native American heritage month, as well as Veteran’s Day. There’s an excellent author’s note at the end discussing how Native women have served and continue to serve in wars, while their families offer support from home. She even includes the story of a Lakota pilot, Ola Mildred Rexroat, who served in the WASPs during WWII. Overall, this would be an excellent addition to elementary school libraries.Reviewed by Andrea LeBaron, Media Clerk, Upland Terrace Elementary Schools
Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades K-5
At the Mountain’s Base
Written by Traci Sorell, Illustrated by Weshoyot Alvitre
Kokila
Release Date: September 17, 2019
ISBN: 9780735230606
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
