Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Emily

While I enjoyed this book somewhat in the fifth grade, I realize now that it is far too antiquated for our public schools. The stereotypical Native American is portrayed in this overly fantastical fiction novel that, while well written, unfortunately perpetuates misperceptions about today's Native American population. Young adults would fare better by reading nonfiction stories about Native Americans, such as Counting Coup. Perhaps by teaching the truth about the circumstances of our native people, we can begin to rebuild their homes and lives as they deserve. The Sign of the Beaver simply ignores this truth.