Hopson, Nasuġraq Rainey. Eagle Drums. Nasuġraq Rainey Hopson, Illus. Roaring Brook/Holtzbrinck, 2023. 245 [+8]pp. Folklore. Trade $18.99. 978-1-2507-5065-5. GRADES 5–8. OUTSTANDING.
The origin story of the Messenger Feast, a native Alaskan tradition, has been passed down orally from generation to generation among the Iñupiaq of the Arctic Circle. This lyrical retelling, with a rhythm fresh and different, describes the hero’s journey of Piŋa, a young Iñupiat hunter, when he is confronted on a mountaintop by Savik, an eagle god who can take the form of a human or a golden eagle. Savik forces Piŋa to accompany him to his aerie, and there, among trials, struggles and self-doubt, Piŋa learns important cultural traditions from the family of the eagle god. The text is a compelling blend of traditional and modern, infused with many Native words, not italicized. Maps and glossary, which may have offered deeper context, are not included. Tribally enrolled Iñupiaq author Hopson enhances the rhythmic text with full-color illustrations of the characters, Alaskan nature, and tundra settings. Beyond the usual canon, this authentic origin myth retelling takes us deep into Iñupiat culture and community, with Piŋa’s journey being honored by the power of oral storytelling. Includes author’s note and acknowledgements.
Armin Arethna—Berkeley Public Library