Raven: A Trickster Tale from the Pacific Northwest

Reach for this book when your child is curious about the origins of the world or when you want to explore how cleverness and empathy can be used to solve big problems. It is a perfect choice for introducing the concept of the 'trickster' figure, a character who uses wit rather than force to bring about positive change. The story follows Raven as he transforms himself to steal light from a selfish Great Spirit and share it with the cold, dark world. Gerald McDermott's vibrant, graphic illustrations use bold colors and geometric shapes to capture the spirit of Pacific Northwest Indigenous art. While it deals with themes of deception, the 'trickery' is framed as a selfless act of heroism for the greater good. This Caldecott Honor book is ideal for children ages 4 to 8, offering a visually stunning entry point into mythology and cultural heritage that celebrates the power of creativity and the light within us all.