Keepers of the Animals

Michael J. Caduto and Joseph Bruchac — an ecologist and an Abenaki storyteller — paired 24 traditional Native American stories with hands-on wildlife ecology activities that have been field-tested across classrooms and nature programs. The stories span creation, celebration, vision, and survival, treating animals as spiritual kin and ecological teachers. The activity scope is impressive, touching science, social studies, math, creative arts, and sensory awareness. For educators and homeschool families, it functions as a genuine curriculum resource. The caveat worth naming: the worldview is Indigenous and animistic, and families rooted in Abrahamic traditions will want to frame that context for their children. The ecological stewardship values, though, are broadly admirable. A substantial, credible resource.