Raven: A Trickster Tale from the Pacific Northwest

Raven: A Trickster Tale from the Pacific Northwest. Gerald McDermott. San Diego: Harcourt Brace & Company, 1993. 32 pages. $14.95 (Hardcover). ISBN 0-15-265661-8. Grades PreK-3.

Reminds Me Of...

Raven: A Trickster Tale from the Pacific Northwest is a very interesting story. The Trickster Tale in and of itself is an interesting style that is a great way to teach custom and tradition to younger readers. Having a central symbol or character who is ‘up to something’ also catches children’s attention and keeps them engages. McDermott was wise to include a note before the story teaching about Raven and his role in Native American culture, as well as describing his character. Not only does this note explain the cultural significance of the story, but it also gives readers something to look forward to: “shape-shifter imbued with magical powers, he is at once brave and cunning, greedy and gluttonous.” This story reminded me of other materials for children:

1)      Beaver Steals Fire: A Salish Coyote Story by Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes

- This book also features a strong cast of animals who feel it is their duty to bring not light, but fire to the earth. While a Raven is not the trickster in this tale, another symbolic bird is present. This tale shed light on the beliefs of the Salish and Kootenai tribes.

2)      Arrow to the Sun: A Pueblo Indian Tale by Gerald McDermott

-This story also teaches of the importance of the sun and light in the beliefs of Pueblo Indians in particular. While this is not a trickster tale and does not feature animals, it does highlight cultural beliefs. This book also shows the bright, symmetrical illustration style of McDermott that can be seen in Raven.

3)      Just a Minute: A Trickster Tale and Counting Book  and Just in Case: A Trickster Tale and Spanish Alphabet Book by Yuyi Morales

- These two titles feature Señor Calavera, a skeleton and symbol for death in Latino culture. In these two trickster tales Morales teaches readers how to count to ten in Spanish and the Spanish alphabet, respectively. These are not simple concept books, however, rather Señora Calavera is up trying to accomplish his tasks of mischief, but instead is foiled by a very wise Grandma and Grandpa. These are great trickster tales for teaching concepts as well introducing Latino culture to children.