A Children’s Book for All Ages
For its size, this sturdy little book contains a lot of information. Patchwork: Seminole & Miccosuki Art and Activities offers practical and entertaining lessons in history, art and everyday lifestyles of the native peoples of Florida since the 1900s.
Even those students who rebel against books will be captivated by the storytelling style and the beautiful graphics. Art teachers will appreciate the clear instructions on how to make patchwork art from paper and glue. The hands-on projects will give youngsters pride in their people’s history and artistic contributions.
All readers, young and old, will find the information educational and easy to digest. Page 23 has illustrations and names of popular patchwork patterns used in jackets, shirts, dresses and blankets. Numerous members from the Seminole and Miccosuki arts community are mentioned throughout. The chickee lifestyle is described and makes one want to spend a few days in the open air.
In summary, I would recommend this book to anyone who loves art and Native American lore. Patchwork , and other books by writer Downs, would do well on the Seminole Marketplace Web site and in all the Seminole museums and gift shops — and certainly in all schools in Florida and elsewhere.
[Editor’s Note: Ramona Kiyoshk is a free-lance writer and member of the Ojibway First Nation of Walpole Island, Ontario. The opinions she expresses are her own. She can be reached at satin.moccasins@gmail.com.]
"This book is a great way to integrate hands-on learning activities into the classroom using everyday materials. All fourth-grade classrooms should have this book."
