My Name Is Pocahontas

``My name is Pocahontas,''comma per eed begins this picture book interpretation of a near mythic Native American's life. Though sculptor/designer Accorsi's lustrous, primitive paintings have considerable child appeal, the accompanying text is often wordy, artificial (`` `But no, wait! They intend to kill him!' '') and sentimental (``Today, Pocahontas, the `first lady' of Native Americans, is remembered for her kindness and love for all people''). Younger elementary school kids might find enough information for reports here--the salient particulars are included--yet the first-person narrative might give the impression of reading an actual autobiography. The book's design also limits its usefulness: the text is too long and the typeface too dark for a harmonious package; it overpowers the open, light-toned illustrations. Though many more books are needed on Native American history, this one misses the mark. Ages 4-8. (Mar.)