In the Footsteps of Crazy Horse

 

  •   Marshall, Joseph III; illustrated by Yellowhawk, Jim. In the Footsteps of Crazy Horse. Amulet Books, 2015. Ages 10-14.



Growing up in the Rosebud Sioux Indian reservation being bullied because of his looks, Jimmy McClean is ¾ Lakota and ¼ Scottish. He has grown up being made fun of because of his blue eyes and light brown hair, leaving him feeling like he isn’t Lakota enough. The summer after school lets out, he embarks on a road trip with his grandfather to follow in the footsteps of the great Lakota warrior Crazy Horse through four different states. His grandfather explains, “My great-grandfather- your great-great-grandfather – was born in 1860. He saw Crazy Horse, as close as you are to me. He said Crazy Horse had light skin, like you, and brown hair, like you. He didn't have blue eyes. But some boys teased him, too.” (Marshall III, 27). Following the story within the story format, Jimmy’s grandfather shares with him the stories of Crazy Horse.  

The story is written by Joseph Marshall III, a member of the Sioux reservation who was awarded the American Indian Youth Literature Award for Best Middle Grade Book for this work. This work targets the middle grades age range by drawing in readers with a relatable young character and setting the story in a modern-day reservation. Readers learn about the real Lakota warrior Crazy Horse through the lens of a Lakota Grandfather telling his story to his grandson about another light-skinned, brown haired Indian warrior. On their journey, they stop to visit many historical sites of importance in connection with Crazy Horse and reflect on the meaning of being a hero. 

The thing that sets this work apart from others is the author's ability to incorporate oral storytelling and passing on of history through stories. The story tells a story within itself; the use of an italic font signifies that the grandfather goes into the oral tellings of Crazy Horse. This is a wonderful medium for readers to learn about history firsthand. The grandfather does not shy away from discussing losses, injustices, and misconceptions about these events. This is a highly informative book that could be used in a history class or passed on to any child who feels like they are not enough.  

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