The Vision Seeker

John Steckley teaches human studies at Hunter College in Toronto.

This richly illustrated book recounts the traditional story of the young
boy who, through his vision quest, brings the sacred sweat lodge to the
“Anishnabe,” or Ojibwa people. The author, an Ojibwa from Curve Lake
in southern Ontario, is clearly knowledgeable about the traditions of
his people. Unfortunately, the minimal text he provides here fails to
address many basic questions: Who are the Anishnabe? What happens in a
sweat lodge? Who are the Seven Grandfathers? Even with Paul Morin’s
vivid illustrations, The Vision Seeker may fail to communicate its
teachings to those unfamiliar with Ojibwa traditions. Recommended with
reservations.