Raven's Cry

Raven's Cry traces the history of the Haida people through the story of Eagle chief Albert Edward Edenshaw. Set in the Pacific Northwest during the 19th century, the narrative follows the transformation of Haida society as European settlers arrive on their shores. The book documents traditional Haida customs, art, and way of life while chronicling the devastating impact of colonization. Through careful research and consultation with anthropologist Wilson Duff, Harris presents an authentic portrayal of this Indigenous culture and its struggles. Written for young readers but respected for its historical accuracy, Raven's Cry earned the 1967 Canadian Library Association Book of the Year for Children Award. The text is complemented by illustrations from renowned Haida artist Bill Reid. This work stands as both a historical record and a meditation on cultural survival, asking readers to consider the true cost of colonization and the resilience of Indigenous peoples in the face of near-extinction.

Readers describe Raven's Cry as a honest portrayal of Haida history and culture that avoids romanticizing or stereotyping. Many note its value as an educational resource, particularly for young readers learning about Pacific Northwest Indigenous peoples. Readers appreciated: - Detailed research and historical accuracy - Focus on Haida art and cultural practices - Integration of real historical figures - Black and white illustrations Common criticisms: - Pacing issues in middle sections - Complex names and terms can be challenging - Some dated language/attitudes (published 1966) Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (89 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (12 ratings) "An unflinching look at a dark period in Canadian history" - Goodreads reviewer "The illustrations alone make this worth reading" - Amazon reviewer "Important but sometimes difficult subject matter for younger readers" - School Library Journal review

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🦅 The Haida people developed one of the most sophisticated canoe-building traditions in North America, creating vessels up to 60 feet long from single cedar logs. 🎨 Christie Harris spent over three years researching Haida culture and consulting with indigenous elders before writing "Raven's Cry," ensuring cultural accuracy. 🌲 Chief Albert Edward Edenshaw was a renowned real-life artist whose totem poles and carvings are now preserved in major museums worldwide, including the British Museum. 🏺 The book's title references the Raven, a central figure in Haida mythology who is considered both a creator and a trickster, playing a crucial role in their origin stories. 🗿 During the 19th century period covered in the book, the Haida population decreased by nearly 90% due to smallpox epidemics introduced through European contact.