Death of the Iron Horse

In this picture book, the Caldecott Medalist again recreates the past as experienced by Native Americans. His incomparable paintings, full of vitality and color, illustrate a true story, the Cheyennes' sole victory over encroaching whites whose railroads ""tear open our Mother, the earth.'' In 1867, the young Cheyenne warriors rode out on their ponies to attack the fire-breathing Iron Horse, causing a terrible wreck that actually had some humorous aspects. Although short-lived, the braves' triumph is entrenched in Indian lore. And the artist's final picture mutely and eloquently records the difference between the attitudes of the conquerers and the Native Americans who respected the landlitter defaces the area beside the rails of a modern Amtrak. Ages 5-8. (March)