Synopsis
In this retelling of the creation story of a lost American Indian people, the Earth originated as a watery place so lonely that even the creator needed a companion before setting foot there. Then, the Great Traveller, God, stepped onto it with his dog and created the world's creatures.
"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.
Review
Based on a traditional Kato Indian story, The Dog Who Walked with God is an atmospheric walk through the creation myth.
According to Kato legend, (the Kato were a small group of Athapaskan peoples who inhabited the valleys of northern California until the beginning of this century) The Traveller and his dog turned the Earth from a land where there was only water into the home for the millions of species of plant and animal that we know today.
He pushed mountains higher, made hillsides greener, filled streams and seas with fish and gave every species a name and the need to be known by it. Accompanied always by his trusty dog, (the animals were as important to the Kato as humans) The Traveller gives children a different take on creation from many other religions and traditions. Softer and more nurturing than the "Big Bang" approach, and less of a patriarchal God than many may be used to, The Traveller is a silent, roaming figure who disappeared as quietly as he came, leaving only improvement in his wake.
Soft, water-colour pictures with a prehistoric feel add to the general feeling of elemental nurturing the story portrays, and the repetitive, oral style of the tale gives it a rhythmic and reassuring quality children will love:
"For what shall I make the sun?"Perfect for a calming bedtime story, or useful for promoting understanding and tolerance of different cultures and traditions, The Dog Who Walked with God would sit comfortably on any private or school bookshelf. A lovely, soothing tale. (Ages 6 to 10.) --Lucie Naylor
he said, they say, and he decided
fire, for heat."For what shall I make the moon?"
he said, they say, and he decided
night, for moon.
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
