Sun Journey

Sun Journey is the story of a young Zuni boy's return from boarding school and his preparations for the Shaloko ceremony in his pueblo. As the returned school boy reengages with his community, his formal education becomes less important: 'It dropped from him like a blanket not needed.' His Native people's culture and traditions turn out to be of higher value than formal schooling alone. In the 21 chapters, the boy and the reader learn from his grandfather the important lessons of Zuni life through the seasons - from making and planting prayer-sticks, gathering of wild plants and planting corn, to the yearly trip to the Salt Lakes and traditional stick races, games and dances. Suitable for ages 8 and up, this delightful and valuable resource describing traditional Zuni life will intrigue readers of all ages.