Vivian’s grandmother reminds her of the many ways the land has helped them and their ancestors, and of why they should always respect their environment. An informative section on Paiute culture and history, weathering and erosion, and hoodoos is included. Beautiful illustrations and clear text make this accessible to young readers. VERDICT Recommended for most picture book collections.
Jennings’ carefully crafted text weaves a lyrical story that blends the present with the rich heritage of the Paiute culture. She also includes comprehensive backmatter that offers parents and teachers historical and scientific facts. Saroff’s luminous use of color and her attention to details complement the story...A story that honors both tradition and its young protagonist’s desire to live in the present.
The story is interesting and the illustrations are attractive...
"Vivian and the Legend of the Hoodoos" is a beautiful modern teaching tale of a Paiute Indian girl who needed to relearn some important native customs of respect, manners and gratitude for the gift of the pine cone nuts.
Author Terry Jennings and illustrator Phyllis Saroff have been careful to confer with members of the Shivwits Band as well as with naturalists from the National Park Service to ensure accuracy and cultural sensitivity. Arbordale's online resources support further exploration of both the geologic and cultural information in this and their many natural history titles like this one written for young readers.
We have never heard of the legend of the hoodoos before or the term Hoodoo and it’s a learning experience for both my son and I. The story follows Vivian and her grandma climbing up the mesa to harvest pine nuts for the winter.