Iktomi and the Buffalo Skull: A Plains Indian Story

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.)