Beyond the Ridge

There is no death; only a change of worlds--Goble delivers these reassurances to readers in his latest book, once more based on the customs of the Plains Indian people. The book reads like a prayer, expressing specific beliefs about dying as well as the story of a woman who is called by her long-dead mother to go ``beyond the ridge.'' The world she discovers--after a steep climb--is abundantly beautiful, and there she finds the familiar faces of people who have passed that way before her. Meanwhile, in her tepee, her loved ones recognize that she is dead, and give her a ceremonial burial. Graceful illustrations, displaying colorful beadwork on clothing and bountiful flora and fauna in each scene, further illuminate the words. The characters move elegantly through the rites, while the text whispers the meaning of symbols. A generous, encompassing view of death and dying, Goble's work is one of resonant tranquility. All ages. (Feb.)