Crazy Horse's Vision.

Crazy Horse's Vision by Joseph Bruchac Illustrated by S. D. Nelson Lee & Low Books Inc., April 2000 $16.95, ISBN 1-880-00094-6, Ages 4-8

Joseph Bruchac, of Abenaki Indian descent, is poet, storyteller and writer of numerous award-winning books for children and adults. His work reflects the rich culture and spirited nature of Native peoples. In this collaboration between Bruchac and S.D. Nelson, of Lakota (Sioux) Indian descent, the boyhood story of Crazy Horse is told.

Among the most well-known Native American heroes, Crazy Horse, named "Curly" as a child because of his head of curly hair, is a leader, a tamer of wild horses, and a hunter of buffalo. When Curly was 11 winters old, his father brought a wild horse into camp and made a challenge that whoever was the first to ride the horse could have it. In a matter of moments, Curly was on the back of the horse. The horse could not throw him. The horse finally stood still and it was declared that Curly and his crazy horse belonged together.

After a battle, which mortally wounded Chief Conquering Bear, Curly is compelled to help his people. Taking to the hills in search of a vision, Curly has an experience which changes his life forever.

Nelson's paintings, inspired by the ledger book style of the Plains Indians, feature chiseled figures in earthy colors. Nelson paints Crazy Horse with blue skin to emphasize his connection to the spirit world. The collaboration offers a glimpse into the soul of a great leader that is sure to inspire children of all colors to strive to become their best selves.