Owl in the Cedar Tree

by Natachee Scott Momaday, Don Perceval (Illustrator)

Haske, a Navaho boy, is torn between the past of his people's rich, self-sustaining culture and a present that opens up new possibilities. His parents propel him in one direction, his grandfather in another, his teacher in still another. The boy has a secret wish, but its fulfillment seems beyond reach. At night he listens to the hoot of the owl in the cedar tree and wonders if good fortune or bad is in store. This beautifully written story finally supplies the answer.

116 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1992

Reviews

[Daniel Kleven]

A really wonderful YA book, about a Navajo boy caught between two worlds. Some really great layers to this story and how it all comes together. Sidenote: Natachee is the mother of N. Scott Momaday, the first American Indian to win a Pulitzer Prize

[Andy]

My son absolutely loved this book, he couldn't wait to read it every night. Momaday gives a wonderful depiction of what life was like for a young Navaho boy growing-up between traditional Navaho Culture and Western white culture. A great book to read to kids.

[Mariana]

Great children's book