Book details
The Sleeping Lady
Description
To many people who gaze across Cook Inlet from Anchorage, Alaska, Mount Susitna looks like a slumbering woman. The Sleeping Lady is a modern-day folk legend that accounts for both Alaska's first snowfall and for the origin of this beautiful mountain. It is also a classic tale about a time of peace and the consequences of war. Enchanting oil paintings by artist Elizabeth Johns capture the village life of the giant people, a prehistoric, peace-loving group and the drama that ensues when they must face a band of menacing warriors. The tale centers on the fate of the story's two betrothed lovers, Nekatla and Susitna, whose encounters with war bring a lasting change to the land and their people. Cloaked in snow in winter and wildflowers in summer, Mount Susitna embodies the hope for peace so relevant at any age. As much a mythical explanation for natural phenomena as it is a tale about a time when people lived in harmony with nature and each other.
Age
4-12
Text complexity
advanced
Length
32 pages
Book in series
#1
Why to read
- Experience the Alaskan Wilderness: 'The Sleeping Lady' offers readers a vivid portrayal of the Alaskan wilderness, its beauty, and its challenges. Reading this book transports you to the remote and breathtaking landscapes that are central to the story.
- Learn about Conservation Efforts: Margaret E. Murie, known as the 'Grandmother of the Conservation Movement,' weaves important themes of environmental protection and conservation into her narrative. This book provides insight into early conservation efforts and the importance of preserving natural habitats.
- Be Inspired by Strong Female Characters: The book features strong and resilient female characters who navigate the difficulties of life in the wilderness. Their stories can inspire readers to overcome challenges and pursue their passions with determination.
- Understand Historical Context: 'The Sleeping Lady' is set in a time when Alaska was undergoing significant changes. Reading this book gives you a historical perspective on the region, the impact of human activities on the environment, and the cultural shifts that have shaped modern-day Alaska.