The Ghost Dance

Ethel King-Shaw is professor emerita of curriculum and instruction in
the Department of Teacher Preparation, University of Calgary.

Over a century ago in the United States, spiritual leaders of the Paiute
Nation became aware of the erosion of their lands and culture by the
increasing number of settlers. The days when the Native peoples lived in
harmony with nature ended when the white men came with their fast horses
and guns. The Natives called on Tavibo, the prophet who dreamed of a
dance that would make the white men leave. Their aim was to regain the
traditional way of life through a sacred, nonviolent dance. Although the
Native peoples met with many disappointments, there is still hope that
the values underlying the Ghost Dance may be realized.

Although written in dramatic prose, the story has a strong poetic
quality appropriate for the Ghost Dance. The book is rich in symbolism,
and the illustrations are truly magnificent with their bold lines and
harmonious colors. Highly recommended.