In 1764, when Kaya and her family reunite with other Nez Percâe Indians to fish for the red salmon, she learns that bragging, even about her swift horse, can lead to trouble. - (Baker & Taylor)

In 1764, when Kaya and her family reunite with other Nez Perce Indians to fish for the red salmon, she learns that bragging, even about her swift horse, can lead to trouble. Simultaneous. - (Baker & Taylor)

Booklist Reviews

Reviewed with Janet Shaw's Kaya's Escape! Gr. 3-5. In 1764, nine-year-old Kaya lives in the traditional homeland of the Nez Perce tribe (present-day Idaho, Washington, and Oregon) with her parents, siblings, and Speaking Rain, a blind girl. In Meet Kaya, she neglects her duties and, when the other children find out, she wonders if she will ever live it down. In Kaya's Escape, Kaya and Speaking Rain are captured and taken to an enemy's camp. Determined to escape, Kaya struggles to make it home through the bitter winter weather without supplies. Nez Perce words are used throughout both stories, and a glossary is appended. A closing section in both titles provides cultural and historical information as well as pictures of the Nimiipuu, known today as the Nez Perce. The editorial staff of Pleasant Company worked with the Nez Perce Tribal Executive Council to create an advisory board that supervised all aspects of the project, including the decision to set the story before contact with white explorers and settlers. Both historically accurate and culturally sensitive, Kaya's stories are welcome additions to this publisher's output and a noteworthy result of a unique collaboration. ((Reviewed January 1 & 15, 2003)) Copyright 2003 Booklist Reviews

Horn Book Guide Reviews

Nicely designed and illustrated, this story provides a look at growing up as a Nez Perce girl in 1764. Despite the attractive layout and authentic details, the story is informative but not very entertaining. Readers will struggle to stay interested in Kaya's family and adventures and will find Kaya's descriptions--as she explains things to her blind sister Speaking Rain--a creaky literary device. Copyright 2003 Horn Book Guide Reviews