Algonquin Indian Tales

Souwanas and Mary share animal legends and stories of Nanahboozhoo with two curious children, Minnehaha and Sagastao. Egerton Ryerson Young places this collection of Algonquian folklore within conversations, visits to a wigwam, canoe outings, and life in the northern landscape. The children's remarks give the tales an informal rhythm, while their questions connect the stories to the creatures and customs around them.

Among the legends are accounts of how bees acquired their stings, how people learned to make maple sugar, and why rabbits turn white in winter. One passage describes a chipmunk gathering help from trees and plants for people who are ill, then explains the affection shown toward these small animals. Young's introduction discusses differences between oral versions and his own choices in retelling them. Readers interested in folklore and children's storytelling can follow both the legends and the conversations through which they are passed on.