Alice Yazzies Year

by Ramona Maher, Stephen Gammell

Twelve free verse poems chronicle the events and feelings of a Navajo girl's eleventh year.

Genres: Picture Books, Native American

48 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2003

Reviews

[Jennifer Heise]

Bear in mind that this picture book of poetry, framed as a year of experiences for a young Dine' girl, was written over 20 years ago and that it is not "own voices"-- I've found no indication that Ramona Maher was Native American, let alone Dine'.
The edition I read, published in 1977, was illustrated by Stephen Gammel, who is not Native either.

On the other hand, in the edition I'm posting my review to, the illustrator, Shonto Begay, is Dine'.
A very good change. I would like to see the newer illustrations-- but curiously enough, none of the library systems I have cards with carry the new edition.

As far as the text is concerned, the poetry is nice and there are good moments, but I wouldn't call it outstanding.

[Kris · Rating 3 out of 5]

Poetry by a Diné girl. I liked the inclusion of the names for different months, but overall, it felt like it was written by a kid. A talented kid, but a kid none the less.

[Yapha · Rating 3 out of 5]

Absolutely stunning illustrations grace this trip through the year with Alice Yazzie, who is balancing her Navajo world with the world outside her community. There is a free verse poem for each month that allows the reader to see glimpses of her life. This beautiful book is best suited for upper elementary school students, and provides an important look at Navajo culture today.

[Kayla · Rating 3 out of 5]

Features poems written by a young Navajo girl for each month of the year. Maher includes Navajo words for month and some interesting end matter about the Navajo months and people.

[Erica · Rating 2 out of 5]

"The Navajo Year: Walk Through Many Seasons" is similar, as it covers the year one month at a time, with the Navajo names for the months, but my kids liked the coyote more than Alice.