Horse Raid: The Making of a Warrior

Gr 4–6—This new edition of Goble's Lone Bull's Horse Raid, first published in 1973, features digitally remastered illustrations as well as revised text. Horse Raid: The Making of a Warrior is a coming-of-age story featuring Lone Bull, a "typical" 14-year-old Oglala Sioux Indian who desires to make a name for himself through horse-raiding. Since horses were of great value to Plains Indians because of their uses in chasing buffalo and transporting goods, young men sought the honor and recognition that horse-raiding brought to them and their tribe. Written from Lone Bull's perspective, this exciting and classic tale takes readers on a young warrior's adventure as he makes his first attempt to raid horses from the Crow Tribe. Through the long days and nights as Lone Bull prepares to make his attack, readers share in the struggle as well as the triumph of Lone Bull's success when he becomes a true warrior in the eyes of his family and tribe. Colorful illustrations enhance the exciting sequence of events and have been updated and revised for better clarity. This is a good choice for readers who are transitioning from easier readers to short chapter books. With a new foreword by Joseph Bruchac, as well as an updated reference page and a wealth of historical information, this serves as one option for expanding a collection in the area of Native American culture for children.—Natalie Braham, Denver Public Library