I Am the Eagle Free (Sky Song): A Six Nations Legend

Becky Norman is a Kitchener-based freelance writer.

Few artists rival the beautiful work exhibited in this children’s
book. The vivid colors used in these bold paintings are truly
astounding. The brilliant silhouettes depicted here are eye-catching; it
is like having a personal art gallery folded into the pages of a book.

I am the Eagle Free is intended as a children’s book, but adults will
also admire its simple message and elaborate artwork. The story itself
is about all the creatures of the Earth, and a contest that is held when
these animals gather. Despite its ecologically minded theme, the story
seems weak by comparision with the drawings; its “moral” is unclear
and the beliefs expressed in it may not appeal to all readers.
Nonetheless, this is an impressive first book; it encourages the
imagination and heightens the senses. When Simon Paul-Dene finds a tale
as powerful as his art, it will be a masterpiece.