White Bead Ceremony

by Sherrin Watkins, Sherrin Watkins

WHITE BEAD CEREMONY is the first in a series about Mary Greyfeather, a contemporary Shawnee girl whose world bridges two cultures: that of a traditional Shawnee & that of a typical American child. Mary's mother wants her to learn about her Shawnee heritage, but she is more interested in Barbie dolls. Grandma suggests a Shawnee naming ceremony for Mar, complete with the traditional naming gift, a strand of white beads. Through whimsical pictures & words, WHITE BEAD CEREMONY shows what happens when the Greyfeather clan gathers to try to decide upon a name for the little girl. Will she be named for the mseewi womhsoomi, the grass-eaters, or for the thepati womhsoomi, the claw-footed animals? In WHITE BEAD CEREMONY, children everywhere can share in a traditional family celebration which becomes Mary's link to her rich Native heritage. "The book provides a welcome glimpse at how tribal traditions are woven into the fabric of modern day life; its educational value is enhanced by the inclusion of Shawnee vocabulary cut-out 'flashcards' & a thumbnail sketch of the Shawnee people." (PW). Call or write for information to order: Council Oak Publishing, 1350 E. 15th St., Tulsa, OK 74120; 918-587-6454; 800- 247-8850.

40 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 1994

Reviews

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