A well-illustrated guidebook that includes the history of totem-pole carving and its West Coast native tradition, and instructions and ideas on how to design and carve a totem-pole as either a traditional design or in a personal folk-art motif.

Describes how Nisga'a artist Norman Tait designs and carves a totem pole, trains his relatives to carve, and participates in the pole raising ceremonies.

Through the mists of Alaska's rain forest, totem poles have stood watch for untold generations. Imbued with mystery to outsider eyes, the fierce, carved symbols silently spoke of territories, legends, memorials, and paid debts. Today many of these cultural icons are preserved for the public to enjoy in heritage parks and historical centers through southeast Alaska. And, after nearly a century of repression, totem carving among Alaska's Tlingit, Haida, Tsimshian peoples is flourishing again. In this newly revised edition of Alaska's Totem Poles, readers learn about the history and use of totems, clan crests, symbolism, and much more. A special section describes where to go to view totems. Author Pat Kramer traveled throughout the homelands of the Totem People—along Alaska's Panhandle, the coast of British Columbia, and into the Northwest—meeting the people, learning their stores, and researching and photographing totem poles. Foreword writer David A. Boxley also offers the unique perspective of a Native Alaskan carver who has been a leader in the renaissance. This is a handy guide for travelers in Southeast Alaska who want to learn more about Alaska's totems. There's even a guide of where to view totems in the state. Ravens, killer whales (Orca) and bears... they're all represented in the totem.

"The First Peoples of the Pacific Coast recorded their history and preserved their legends and stories on spectacularly carved totem poles. This book guides readers to the many places in British Columbia, Washington and Alaska where totem poles can be found and helps viewers understand the "language" of the poles. Learn about their origin and history, the symbols and ceremonies linked to them, types of figures and how to identify them, and where to see authentic poles and pole collections." "Pat Kramer spent many years researching the material in this book and worked closely with First Peoples to create a fresh and revealing look at these incredible artifacts. Filled with fascinating facts, legends and photographs, Totem Poles is an excellent guide, reference and souvenir."--BOOK JACKET.

In his Nautilus Award-winning classic Touching Spirit Bear, author Ben Mikaelson delivers a powerful coming-of-age story of a boy who must overcome the effects that violence has had on his life. After severely injuring Peter Driscal in an empty parking lot, mischief-maker Cole Matthews is in major trouble. But instead of jail time, Cole is given another option: attend Circle Justice, an alternative program that sends juvenile offenders to a remote Alaskan Island to focus on changing their ways. Desperate to avoid prison, Cole fakes humility and agrees to go. While there, Cole is mauled by a mysterious white bear and left for dead. Thoughts of his abusive parents, helpless Peter, and his own anger cause him to examine his actions and seek redemption—from the spirit bear that attacked him, from his victims, and, most importantly, from himself. Ben Mikaelsen paints a vivid picture of a juvenile offender, examining the roots of his anger without absolving him of responsibility for his actions, and questioning a society in which angry people make victims of their peers and communities. Touching Spirit Bear is a poignant testimonial to the power of a pain that can destroy, or lead to healing. A strong choice for independent reading, sharing in the classroom, homeschooling, and book groups.

For many of us, the thought of work brings to mind a daily nine-to-five grind, reporting to disinterested supervisors, and ''working for the weekend.'' You probably enter the office feeling disenchanted, counting down the minutes until 5 p.m. Whether this approach to work is due to feeling unrecognized for your work, being a cog in a corporate machine, or the influence of apathetic coworkers, there is something you likely forgot along the way--you are the one in the driver's seat of your career.

Based on Haida artist Robert Davidson's own childhood experiences, this beautiful story highlights learning through observation, as well as the role of Elders in sharing knowledge and mentorship. Learning to carve is a lifelong journey. With the help of his father and grandfather, a boy on Haida Gwaii practises to become a skillful carver. As he carefully works on a new piece, he remembers a trip to Slatechuck Mountain to gather the argillite, as well as his father’s words about the importance of looking back to help us find our way. Written by the creators of Potlatch as Pedagogy, this book brings the Sk'ad'a Principles to life through the art of Janine Gibbons.