The Long Ago Lake A Book of Nature Lore and Crafts

Name: The Long Ago Lake A Book of Nature Lore and Crafts
ISBN: 9780877016328

by Marne Wilkins

For families longing for deeper connection to nature, this book offers a nostalgic journey into childhood summers, blending nature lore with hands-on craft projects.

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About This Book

A parent might reach for this book when they want to inspire a deeper, more hands-on connection with the outdoors, away from screens. Part memoir and part activity guide, The Long Ago Lake recalls the author's childhood summers spent in Wisconsin, learning about the natural world from her family and their Native American friends. The book gently blends nostalgic stories with practical instructions for nature crafts, from building a cattail duck decoy to making birchbark containers. It fosters curiosity, family bonding, and a quiet appreciation for nature's wonders, making it a wonderful resource for families looking to create their own outdoor memories.

Curiosity & Wonder Nature & Outdoors Joy & Gratitude Art & Creativity Love & Family Family & Siblings Empathy & Kindness History

What Parents Should Know

Cultural Content GapMild

Portrayal of Native Americans is respectful but uses dated language ('Indian') from a non-native perspective.

Sensitive Topics

The primary sensitive topic is the portrayal of Native American culture. The book, written in 1990 about an earlier time, uses the term "Indian friends." The approach is one of deep respect and gratitude, portraying them as knowledgeable teachers who shared their wisdom generously. The focus is secular, centered on ecological knowledge and a spiritual connection to the land rather than specific religious doctrine. However, the perspective is that of a white person looking back, and the representation may lack the nuance of a contemporary own-voices narrative. The resolution of this cultural exchange is entirely positive within the book's context.