The Basket Woman A Book of Indian Tales for Children By: Mary Hunter Austin (1868-1934)
The Basket Woman is a truly captivating collection of Indian tales for children, written by the talented Mary Hunter Austin. From cover to cover, this book offers a delightful journey into the rich and colorful world of Native American folklore. Austin's storytelling prowess is evident from the very first page. She effortlessly weaves together vivid descriptions, engaging characters, and enchanting plotlines. Each tale is thoughtfully crafted, showcasing the diverse cultural heritage and deep wisdom of Native American tribes. The author's authentic voice brings these stories to life, making them easily accessible and relatable for young readers. One aspect that sets The Basket Woman apart is its focus on strong female characters. Austin skillfully presents female protagonists who, through their bravery, intelligence, and resourcefulness, challenge traditional gender roles. This emphasis on female empowerment is not only relevant but also inspiring for young readers of all genders. Another commendable aspect of this book is its celebration of nature and the natural world. Austin eloquently emphasizes the profound connection between Native American communities and the land, highlighting the importance of respecting and preserving our environment. Through these tales, readers are encouraged to develop a deep appreciation for the beauty and significance of our natural surroundings. While The Basket Woman is primarily intended for children, its appeal stretches far beyond its target audience. It serves as a valuable educational tool, introducing children to a different culture and fostering a sense of cultural diversity. Additionally, the book carries valuable moral lessons, promoting kindness, empathy, and respect for others. One minor drawback may be the occasional use of complex vocabulary and cultural references. While this adds depth to the stories, younger readers may need some assistance in fully understanding certain parts. Nonetheless, this should not discourage readers, as it can also be an opportunity for parents and educators to engage in discussions and explore further learning. In terms of aesthetics, The Basket Woman is a beautiful package. The book is graced with stunning illustrations that perfectly complement the stories, adding an extra layer of visual delight. The vibrant colors and attention to detail serve to enhance the overall reading experience, making it truly immersive. In conclusion, The Basket Woman is a captivating and culturally enriching read for children and adults alike. Mary Hunter Austin's skillful storytelling transports readers to a world filled with wonder and wisdom. This book is a must-have addition to any library, serving as a timeless tribute to the rich legacy and storytelling traditions of Native American communities. First Page: TRANSCRIBER'S NOTE: Diacritic marks over letters are enclosed within square brackets. For example, [)a] represents small letter "a" with breve. THE BASKET WOMAN A BOOK OF INDIAN TALES FOR CHILDREN BY MARY AUSTIN SCHOOL EDITION BOSTON, NEW YORK, AND CHICAGO HOUGHTON MIFFLIN COMPANY The Riverside Press, Cambridge COPYRIGHT, 1904, BY MARY AUSTIN COPYRIGHT, 1910, BY HOUGHTON MIFFLIN COMPANY ALL RIGHTS RESERVED [Illustration: From photograph by A. A. Forbes THE BASKET WOMAN] PREFACE In preparing this volume of western myths for school use the object has been not so much to provide authentic Indian Folk tales, as to present certain aspects of nature as they appear in the myth making mood, that is to say, in the form of strongest appeal to the child mind. Indian myths as they exist among Indians are too frequently sustained by coarse and cruel incidents comparable to the belly ripping joke in Jack the Giant Killer , or the blinding of Gloucester in King Lear , and when presented in story form, too often fall under the misapprehension of the myth as something invented and added to the imaginative life. It is, in fact, the root and branch of man's normal intimacy with nature. So slowly does the mind awaken to the realization of consciousness and personality as by products of animal life only, that few escape carrying over into adult life some obsession of its persistence in inanimate things, say of malevolence in opals or luckiness in a rabbit's foot, or the capacity of moral discrimination against their victims residing in hurricanes and earthquakes... Continue reading book >>

The Basket Woman A Book of Indian Tales for Children By: Mary Hunter Austin (1868-1934)

The Basket Woman is a truly captivating collection of Indian tales for children, written by the talented Mary Hunter Austin. From cover to cover, this book offers a delightful journey into the rich and colorful world of Native American folklore.

Austin's storytelling prowess is evident from the very first page. She effortlessly weaves together vivid descriptions, engaging characters, and enchanting plotlines. Each tale is thoughtfully crafted, showcasing the diverse cultural heritage and deep wisdom of Native American tribes. The author's authentic voice brings these stories to life, making them easily accessible and relatable for young readers.

One aspect that sets The Basket Woman apart is its focus on strong female characters. Austin skillfully presents female protagonists who, through their bravery, intelligence, and resourcefulness, challenge traditional gender roles. This emphasis on female empowerment is not only relevant but also inspiring for young readers of all genders.

Another commendable aspect of this book is its celebration of nature and the natural world. Austin eloquently emphasizes the profound connection between Native American communities and the land, highlighting the importance of respecting and preserving our environment. Through these tales, readers are encouraged to develop a deep appreciation for the beauty and significance of our natural surroundings.

While The Basket Woman is primarily intended for children, its appeal stretches far beyond its target audience. It serves as a valuable educational tool, introducing children to a different culture and fostering a sense of cultural diversity. Additionally, the book carries valuable moral lessons, promoting kindness, empathy, and respect for others.

One minor drawback may be the occasional use of complex vocabulary and cultural references. While this adds depth to the stories, younger readers may need some assistance in fully understanding certain parts. Nonetheless, this should not discourage readers, as it can also be an opportunity for parents and educators to engage in discussions and explore further learning.

In terms of aesthetics, The Basket Woman is a beautiful package. The book is graced with stunning illustrations that perfectly complement the stories, adding an extra layer of visual delight. The vibrant colors and attention to detail serve to enhance the overall reading experience, making it truly immersive.

In conclusion, The Basket Woman is a captivating and culturally enriching read for children and adults alike. Mary Hunter Austin's skillful storytelling transports readers to a world filled with wonder and wisdom. This book is a must-have addition to any library, serving as a timeless tribute to the rich legacy and storytelling traditions of Native American communities.

First Page:

TRANSCRIBER'S NOTE: Diacritic marks over letters are enclosed within square brackets. For example, [)a] represents small letter "a" with breve.

THE BASKET WOMAN

A BOOK OF INDIAN TALES FOR CHILDREN

MARY AUSTIN

SCHOOL EDITION

BOSTON, NEW YORK, AND CHICAGO HOUGHTON MIFFLIN COMPANY

The Riverside Press, Cambridge

[Illustration: From photograph by A. A. Forbes THE BASKET WOMAN]

PREFACE

In preparing this volume of western myths for school use the object has been not so much to provide authentic Indian Folk tales, as to present certain aspects of nature as they appear in the myth making mood, that is to say, in the form of strongest appeal to the child mind. Indian myths as they exist among Indians are too frequently sustained by coarse and cruel incidents comparable to the belly ripping joke in Jack the Giant Killer , or the blinding of Gloucester in King Lear , and when presented in story form, too often fall under the misapprehension of the myth as something invented and added to the imaginative life. It is, in fact, the root and branch of man's normal intimacy with nature.

So slowly does the mind awaken to the realization of consciousness and personality as by products of animal life only, that few escape carrying over into adult life some obsession of its persistence in inanimate things, say of malevolence in opals or luckiness in a rabbit's foot, or the capacity of moral discrimination against their victims residing in hurricanes and earthquakes... Continue reading book >>

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