Kunu, a Penobscot Indian boy, is frustrated by his first attempts to make a basket. He rejects his dad’s offer of help, then his grandfather asks if Kunu can help him, and together they pound strips of ash until they’re thin and start weaving a basket bottom. As they work, Kunu’s grandfather points out his own first basket—sitting in the corner of the room—noting it took him seven tries to get the base right when he made it. This inspires Kunu to try working on his own basket one more time. Kunu’s sense of frustration, and later pride and accomplishment, are wonderfully realized in Lee DeCora Francis’s story about a contemporary Native family, as is the sense of continuity across generations. Susan Drucker’s somewhat static illustrations are enlivened by the intriguing details she incorporates, including insets showing a variety of baskets. (Ages 5–9)

But making the basket is difficult, and Kunu gets frustrated. He is ready to give up when his grandfather intervenes. This is not only a story about a family tradition, but also a story about learning to be patient and gentle with yourself.

• A story about contemporary Native American life
• This new paperback edition includes a new Author's Note about the traditions and importance of basketmaking in Penobscot Nation culture.

Fountas & Pinnell Level N