Keepers of the Earth

Native American Stories and Environmental Activities for Children

Fulcrum Publishing
Joseph Bruchac, Michael Caduto
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The flagship book in the Keepers of the Earth series, this environmental classic teaches children respect and stewardship for the Earth and all living things. Joseph Bruchac's lyrical retellings set the stage for Michael Caduto's abundance of related activities.

Beginning with Native American stories, this invaluable and time-honored resource provides readers with an abundance of hands-on activities that will inspire children to understand and appreciate Native American cultures and the Earth.

Connects to social studies, science, environmental studies and other content areas.Uses a holistic approach suitable for all ages.Provides field-tested activities.Includes charts, illustrations and graphs to enhance the projects and concepts.

When the stories and activities in this book and its companion teacher's guide are followed carefully as children progress from kindergarten through the primary grades, roughly ages five through twelve years, they provide a complete program of study in the important concepts and topics of ecology and natural history. As the stories unfold and you help the children to bring the activities to life, a holistic, interdisciplinary approach to teaching about the Earth and Native American cultures begins. These stories and activities weave together lessons both directly and through metaphors and have been enjoyed by families as well as in camp settings, nature centers, environmental education programs, public and private schools, library story hours, and in both rural and urban settings.

Contributor Bio

Joseph Bruchac, coauthor of The Keepers of the Earth series, is a nationally acclaimed Native American storyteller and writer who has authored more than 70 books of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry for adults and children. He lives in upstate New York. Michael J. Caduto is an award-winning and internationally known author, master storyteller, poet, musician, educator, and ecologist. He has received numerous awards, including the New York State Outdoor Education Association's Art and Literary Award, New England's Regional Award for Excellence in Environmental Education, the American Booksellers' "Pick of the List" Award, and the Association of Children's Booksellers' Choice Award, among others. He travels widely presenting environmental and cultural performances, speeches and workshops for children and adults. His recent books include Earth Tales from Around the World and The Crimson Elf: Italian Tales of Wisdom. He lives in Vermont.