Thirteen Moons on Turtle's Back

Written by Joseph Bruchac and Jonathan London · Illustrated by Thomas Locker

Discover the secrets of the moon's cycles through Native American legends and nature's wonders.

4.2/5 Goodreads · 535 ratings

32 pages· 1,703 words· Est. 14 min read-aloud

$8.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

Explore the mystical connection between nature and Native American legends as Old Turtle's scales reveal the moon's cycles and changing seasons. Journey through lyrical poems and vivid paintings, from the Northern Cheyenne's Moon of the Popping Trees to the Abenaki's Big Moon. This enchanting tale invites readers to embrace a spiritual respect for the land and its first guardians. What secrets do the thirteen scales hold, and how do they guide the rhythms of nature? Uncover the beauty and wisdom of these ancient stories.

From the publisher

“Unusual and intelligent…An exemplary introduction to Native American culture with its emphasis on the importance of nature.” –Publishers Weekly In Native American legend, the thirteen scales on Old Turtle’s back hold the key to the thirteen cycles of the moon and the changing seasons. These lyrical poems and striking paintings celebrate the wonder of the seasons, from the Northern Cheyenne’s Moon of the Popping Trees to the Big Moon of the Abenaki. “This book instills a spiritual respect for our land and an appreciation for the people who were its first caring guardians.” –American Bookseller A Notable Children’s Trade Book in the Language ArtsAn IRA Teacher’s Choice BookA Notable Children’s Trade Book in the Field of Social Studies

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