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Description
In Santa Clara Pueblo, a Tewa family keeps a centuries-old tradition alive by shaping clay into pottery entirely by hand, treating each piece with respect for the spirit known as Clay-Old-Woman. Gia Rose and her relatives gather natural clay from the earth, form it using traditional techniques, and fire the work in simple outdoor kilns. As modern life changes around them, their dedication to the craft becomes both a challenge and a celebration of their heritage. The story follows their daily practice, showing how the art of pottery links past and present for the Pueblo people.
Quick Summary
If you've ever wanted to see how a Tewa family turns a lump of raw clay into beautiful pottery, this is the book for you. Rina Swentzell shares the everyday moments of a Santa Clara Pueblo family as they follow their ancestors' techniques, from mixing the earth to firing the finished pieces in a traditional kiln. The story feels like a warm conversation, showing how art, family, and history are woven together, and it's packed with small details that make the process feel real and doable. Middle-grade readers who enjoy crafts, history, or stories that show different ways of life will find it especially appealing, and it's a great choice for kids who might be reluctant to pick up a non-fiction book. Parents can rest assured it's a respectful, positive portrayal of Native culture with no scary or inappropriate content, just a lot of heart and hands-on learning. If you liked "The Pot That Juan Built" or any book that lets you peek behind the scenes of a craft, you'll probably love this one too.