Did You Hear Wind Sing Your Name?: An Oneida Song of Spring

by Sandra De Coteau Orie

An Oneida poet celebrates, as do her people, the coming of spring, noting each small sign of increasing warmth and life and giving thanks for all forms of life.

Genres: Native American, Picture Books, Poetry, Childrens, Nature

32 pages, Hardcover

First published March 22, 1995

Reviews

[Elizabeth]

The full-page illustrations are lush and photo-realistic -- though the shiny pages glinted in the light, making them actually a little difficult to engage with.

The trajectory into sunset and moonlight I think makes the book a really nice choice for a bedtime story -- offering the child an opportunity to reflect on/relive some of the outdoors moments of the day and settle into a quieter mode.

I appreciated the Author's Note at the beginning, providing contextual information about the Oneida to help understand the language of the story better.

[Edna]

The natural cadence while reading this book perfectly exemplifies Native American literature - and it's for children. How can you not be moved with its poetic text and beautiful illustrations? I can't get enough of this type of writing - it's guaranteed to move you. Read it and feel yourself spiritually lift upward toward the sky. Loved it!

[Theresa]

Did you hear wind sing your name"?
by sandra de coteau orie
A poetic book looking at the aspects of human nature, and physical nature of the environment. This book features the Oneida traditions and ideals. The art work is beautiful and special.
used as a small group book for early 2 and 3rd grade readers.

[Renee]

Would be a nice edition to add to a Spring book display.
Author's note is very important to read before reading the poem like book.

Sandra De Coteau Orie is an Oneida writer, artisan, and teacher who grew up on the Oneida Nation Reservation in Oneida, Wisconsin.

[Chris Powless]

EXCELLENT book and a fine read for children. A wonderful addition to the classroom as well.

[Kathleen]

An engaging picture book, with beautiful illustrations that denote the cycle of spring and the circle of life. I liked the "Author's Note" at the beginning. In it the author explains some of the cultural imagery and worldviews of the Oneida. The simple narrative (did you see...did you feel...did you smell...) is supported by charming artwork and will appeal to many age groups.

[Emma]

Josie x 2