While Native American religious beliefs vary from tribe to tribe, the one thing they have in common is a belief in a higher power. This power has many names: Manitou, Wakanda, Sila, or even just the Great Spirit. This book discusses the various beliefs held by tribes in each region of the Americas. It also describes some of the important rituals practiced in each religion.
The tools and weapons used by Native American tribes were not just functional. Often, these tools and weapons were created during a special ceremony or ritual, so there was a spiritual significance to them as well. Shamans or medicine men would bless such items in the hope that they would serve their owners well. This book discusses the primary tools and weapons made by tribes in specific regions as well as how these tools and weapons were created and used.
Native Americans have an incredibly rich store of knowledge when it comes to using herbs and plants to heal illness, treat injuries, and cure disease. In fact, some of their traditions have found a place in the modern medicines we use today. This book discusses the nature-based approach Native Americans took towards healing. It also examines important figures, such as shamans and medicine men, and explains some of the remedies and rituals that were conducted.
The Native Americans fought with other tribes for a variety of reasons. Depending on the area in which they lived, a tribe could fight for territory, possessions, or simply as a matter of pride or to right a perceived wrong. This book discusses some of the best known Native American rivalries, the reasons behind them, and the impact the arrival of Europeans during the 16th through the 19th centuries had on these rivalries.
The hunting practices of Native Americans differed throughout North and South America. Some hunted with bows and arrows, others with spears and clubs, and still others with snares and traps. This book discusses the ways in which Native Americans hunted in different regions, the weapons they used, and the types of animals that were hunted. It also describes the rituals the tribes performed before hunting, and explains how they used not only the meat, but also the bones, hide, and sinews of the animals they killed.
To an outsider, Native American family life may seem simple. In reality, the societies within Native American tribes are incredibly rich and complex. Nor is family life the same from tribe to tribe. Some tribes are organized into clans; others trace their lineage according to matrilineal lines. This book discusses some of the familial arrangements of various tribes, including the reasons for such arrangements as well as the roles individuals played in their respective societies.
When Europeans arrived in the Americas during the 16th and 17th centuries, they found that some Native American tribes had created alliances, or confederacies. These agreements allowed the member tribes of the confederacy to control trade and keep the peace in their region. This book explains how these Native American confederacies were formed, discusses some famous examples like the Iroquois Confederacy, and explains how Native American groups continue to work together for the good of all tribes in the present day.
Prior to becoming a "melting pot" of many languages, the continents of North and South America were already home to a variety of Native American tribes, each with its own language. What's more, subsets of tribes often had their own dialects, sometimes making communication between two people nearly impossible, even if they lived near each other. This book discusses the major Native American languages used by tribes in various regions and how some of their words have been incorporated into the English language today.
Contrary to popular belief, Native Americans did not always have horses to assist them in their daily lives. For thousands of years they carried items themselves or even used dogs. The arrival of the horse in the Americas during the 16th century dramatically changed the lifestyles of many Native American tribes. This was particularly true of the people living on the Great Plains. This book discusses the introduction of the horse to the Native Americans by the Spanish and explains the impact this had on various Native American tribes.
The diet of Native American tribes reflected the areas in which they lived. For some tribes, like those of the Pacific Northwest, salmon was a staple part of the diet; for the people of the Great Plains, the buffalo was hunted for food. This book discusses the foods common to various tribes as well as the cultural significance certain foods had for specific tribes.
From pre-Columbian times to the present day, Native Americans have enjoyed celebrating holidays and other special occasions. Tribes celebrated festivals and ceremonies throughout the year. These included everything from significant events in a person's life, the changing of the seasons, the arrival of special people or places, and elements of nature. This book discusses the important festivals and ceremonies celebrated by tribes in specific regions, outlining the form of the festival and how each was celebrated.
From the woodland tribes to the tribes of Mexico and the Caribbean and all the way to the Arctic, Native American houses reflected the environments in which various tribes lived. Furthermore, Native American homes also reflected the deep spiritual life of a people. The way in which they were built, the materials used, and even the direction the house faced was significant. This book provides an understanding of the different homes built by the Native Americans from longhouses to tepees to igloos to pueblos.
In early America, pictures were not as prevalent as they are today. Throughout history, people have come to recognize certain places and things by the symbols that represent them.
Do you face challenging situations? Human diversity encompasses all the ways that people differ from one another. Rather than avoiding these challenges, it is important to recognize that progress comes from embracing and celebrating diversity. See why diversity is important and learn how to respect people who are different from you. This title will allow students to identify the main purpose of a text, including what the author wants to answer, explain, or describe.
Spotlight on Italy introduces children to a country that has influenced the world throughout history. Children will be taken on a tour of the country from the towering Alps to the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean islands. The daily lives of modern Italians is also presented along with their customs and traditions.
Spotlight on Russia gives children a fascinating introduction to the largest country in the world, which is part of two continents! Wonderful photographs feature Russias many diverse people, its unique plants and animals, and its dramatic landscape, including beautiful Lake Baikal. The traditions and symbols of Russia are also featured from classical ballet to the Moscow circus.
Spotlight on Brazil introduces children to the country of Brazil, where almost half the population of South America lives. Children will read about Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, the daily lives of Brazilians in the cities, and why the way of life of native peoples in the Amazon rain forest is being changed forever.
Spotlight on South Africa introduces readers to this vast country, from Table Mountain to the grasslands, where elephants, lions, and other wildlife live in protected parks. The daily lives and family traditions of the mix of people and cultures that make up South Africa today are highlighted. A special section features the joyful celebration of the World Cup of soccer held in South Africa in 2010.
Spotlight on the Philippines introduces this fascinating country in the Pacific Ocean, which is made up of over 7,000 islands. Children will learn about the daily lives of the people and the country's unique culture festivals and dances.
Spotlight on Japan reveals the beauty of this island nation, from its bamboo forests to its majestic mountains. The everyday life of the modern Japanese people is highlighted along with traditional festivals and more modern leisure activities, such as manga and karaoke. Children will also be fascinated to learn about the way of life of the ancient samurai warrior.
Colorful photographs highlight this captivating look at Indonesia. A country of 17,508 islands, Indonesia is a visual wonderland of rain forests, mountains, pristine beaches, and over 150 active volcanoes. Children will be amazed by fascinating customs and celebrations and photographs of Komodo Dragons, Sumatran tigers, and orangutans.
Children will be delighted by exciting images of pyramids and mummies in this introduction to one of the worlds oldest civilizations. Spotlight on Egypt covers everything from this country's ancient history under the ruling pharaohs to the customs and traditions of its people today. Egypt's wildlife and the importance of the Nile River and Sahara Desert are also highlighted.
Spotlight on Canada introduces children to Canada's multicultural people, its varied landscapes and climates, its exciting cities, and its joyful celebrations. A huge country with only one neighbor, the United States, Canada is divided into provinces and territories. French and English are its two official languages, and its rich history goes back to its French and English roots. This colorful book celebrates the diversity of this great country!
Mexico is the southern neighbor of the United States. It is a country with a rich history and culture, a warm climate, diverse landscapes, and a variety of wildlife. From Mayan pyramids to busy cities to happy fiestas, Spotlight on Mexico offers a joyful experience to young readers. The book also includes recipes of some favorite Mexican foods that children will love to make!
Learning to tolerate different opinions, perspectives, and beliefs is vital to a healthy society. Slim Goodbody's Can We Get Along? helps children understand the need and importance for tolerance, and the steps they can take to increase peace in their lives and in the world.
