The Horse and the Plains Indians by Dorothy Patent –OPTIONAL

Patent, Dorothy Hinshaw The Horse and the Plains Indians: A Powerful Partnership 112 pgs.Clarion Books, 2012. $15.38.  (Rating: G)

Before the 1600’s the Native Americans were using dogs to pull their belongings and items to transport. When the Spanish in the Southwest brought vast of horses –many were stolen, or got away and were captured by Native Americans. They quickly integrated horses into their daily lives: hunting, transporting, and culturally. As many tragedies occurred towards the treatment of Native Americans by the US government, their horses suffered as well. But their love of horses did not diminish and many tribes today have horses as an important part of their lives.  

This book features lovely large font and many photographs, both modern and historic. Although clearly divided into subtopics by chapter, it does ramble through time and a tribes a bit to accomplish its goals. It’s a bit specific, topic-wise for a use when creating a report but horses are a popular subject with younger students, so this book may see some circulation.

MS, HS  –OPTIONAL Reviewer: Stephanie Elementary School Librarian & Author.