Buffalo Ways

Havrelock, Deidre. Buffalo Ways: The ­Enduring Story of Buffalo and the First Peoples of North America. illus. by William Burns. 40p. (Books for a Better Earth). ­Holiday House. Sept. 2026. Tr $19.99. ISBN 9780823450374.  

Gr 2-6–This beautifully told and illustrated book centers on the mutually beneficial ­relationship between Indigenous People and buffalo that began thousands of years ago. The author, a member of the Saddle Creek Cree Nation, tells the story of the Ice Age surviving bison that at once covered the Great Plains of North America. When the First People settled into the buffalo’s ­habitat, a relationship formed. Later, a spiritual bond developed that strengthened the connection between the two groups. With the arrival of Europeans, the buffalo became nearly extinct. Thanks to the efforts of several prominent Indigenous leaders, the buffalo have survived, and the US and Canadian governments have taken steps to ensure their survival. The text provides a compelling history that is further detailed in the back matter. Indigenous leaders are named, and the ­languages of many nations are included in the text. The illustrations resemble oil paintings; thick brush strokes and emotional colors effectively portray the buffalo, its surroundings, and the people who have connected with them for thousands of years. VERDICT Highly recommended. An artfully illuminating study of human and animal interactions, as well as the human impact on nature.–John Scott