The Shadows That Rush Past

Gr 3–5—These folktales depict the harshness of the Arctic environment and culture. The introduction reveals these tales as "Dream-histories"—sacred works of Inuit linking them to their ancestors. While children might see them as good scary fun, they also receive a glimpse into those past generations. In the first tale, a boy is kidnapped by the horrific amautalik while playing and forced to be her servant until he is finally set free by a small bird. Next, a man attempts to outwit the akhla, a cross between a grizzly bear and a human who raids graves and camps. In the third story, Nanurluk, a huge polar bear, threatens the camps. One young man decides to attack. He runs toward the bear and is swallowed whole. He attacks the creature from the inside and survives a hero. Now he thinks he is invincible and does not heed the warnings of the villagers when the next threat appears. The last story introduces Mahaha, a humanlike creature, lean and gray and very cold. He preys on the wife of a hunter, tickling her in a vicious way, torturing her until her breath is no more. When her husband returns from the hunt, he tricks the beast and avenges his wife's death. The harsh environment plays a role in all four stories. These frightening creatures are reflected in colorful and gruesome, realistic drawings. Each monster figure, even though scary, is sure to appeal to young readers.—Margaret R. Tassia, Millersville University, PA