The Origin of the Milky Way and Other Living Stories of the Cherokee

“The living stories — because they're still being told, they remain alive — teach in a traditional way what’s important in Cherokee culture. . . . Highly recommended.” — Multicultural Review

“As a Cherokee scholar, citizen, and mother, I appreciate the contribution Duncan makes to Cherokee children’s literature. . . . Teachers, scholars, and parents should welcome this work and its contribution to Cherokee scholarship.” — Journal of Appalachian Studies

“The stories are well chosen, and they are beautifully presented. . . . A model for bringing high quality folklore research to young readers.” — Journal of Folklore Research

“The Origin of the Milky Way can be enjoyed as a delightful collection of tales to instruct children, but it is really much more than that. It contains a living history of a proud nation of very gifted people.” — The Midwest Book Review

“This is a book for children who are 10 years and older, but any adult who wants to know more about the Cherokees would enjoy its stories and the informational introductions to the sections.” — Fayetteville Observer

“Aimed at middle school and junior high school students, this collection of Cherokee stories is of interest to all levels.” — KLIATT

“All of the stories — which range from very funny to very sad to very scary — teach connection to land, culture, and community. . . . Highly recommended.” — Oyate

Featured in Carolina Country’s Tar Heel Lessons, a guide for North Carolina teachers and students

“The Origin of the Milky Way and Other Living Stories of the Cherokee provides a high-interest way of integrating elementary language arts and social studies curricula. Fables, folk tales, myths, poetry, geography, and history can all be taught through a text that is authentic, interesting, imaginative, and even funny. The rich history of the Cherokee people takes on meaning and depth when students can 'hear' the voices of the Native American people. This book gave my students a much clearer understanding of oral traditions and their place in Native American cultures.” — Jen Meyer, fifth grade teacher, Durham (N.C.) Public Schools