cover image Iktomi and the Buffalo Skull: A Plains Indian Story

Iktomi and the Buffalo Skull: A Plains Indian Story

Paul Goble. Orchard Books (NY), $16.95 (1pp) ISBN 978-0-531-05911-1

No one is more impressed with Iktomi than Iktomi himself, and in the Plains Indian trickster's fourth misadventure his narcissism is again his (hilarious) downfall. Though he has a wife, Iktomi sets out for the next village where, he is certain, the girls will swoon over him. But Iktomi never learns: he insults his horse, and is left in the middle of nowhere without transportation. Then the Mouse People trick the trickster into putting his head inside an old buffalo skull--where it will stay until Iktomi makes his way home and faces the laughter of his village and the wrath of his wife. Goble's versions of these age-old tales are masterpieces, from his exquisitely portrayed characters to his punchy text. Fans will hope the well of Iktomi tales never runs dry. Ages 4-7. (Mar.)