James Ruppert
Published: 2001-01-01
Total Pages: 462
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Storytelling is an important, vibrant tradition among the Native peoples of the Far North, especially in the Athabaskan communities of interior Alaska and the Yukon Territory. Here for the first time is an anthology of the best stories that Athabaskan speakers tell about themselves, their communities, and the cold, beautiful world of the Far North. Showcased are twenty accomplished Native storytellers, recognized as masters by their people, who come from the Deg Hit'an, Koyukon, Gwich'in, Northern and Southern Tutchone, Kaska, Tagish, Upper and Lower Tanana, Tanacross, Upper Kuskokwim, Dena'ina, Ahtna, and Eyak communities. Men and women, young and old, recount popular tales of legendary times, such as how Raven Shaped the World. They also share meaningful, sometimes intimate, stories about their own lives, their families, or the history of their people. These evocative, wonderfully crafted stories are a literary treasure trove; entertaining, enchanting, and offering an unforgettable glimpse of the Native peoples who live under the bright lights of the Far North.