This attractive book by Mohawk author-illustrator C.J. Taylor is a departure from her popular picture books about native legends. An account of real people and events, Peace Walker is a chapter book about a highly respected North American model of democracy – the Iroquois Confederacy and its Great Law of Peace – which existed before European contact.

Taylor gives context to her subject with a brief prologue outlining the early history of the Iroquois and an even briefer epilogue identifying some basics of the Great Law (which still guides the Grand Council of the People of the Longhouse today). Nine chapters portray a period of internal warring that led to domination by Atotarho, a cruel Onondaga sorcerer chief. The narrative concludes with the successful efforts of Hiawatha, a highly respected Onondaga chief, and Tekanawita, a revered Huron, who converted a culture of accusation, suspicion, and revenge to one of virtue, honesty, and patience. Fans of Taylor’s art will welcome nine acrylic paintings, which break up the text and blend elements of the natural and spirit worlds.

While the literary and artistic elements of Peace Walker are capable, the book has shortcomings, particularly in the area of cultural sensitivity. By using the name Tekanawita throughout, the author fails to observe the customary respectful Iroquois practice of referring to that revered character instead as the Peacemaker. The title is puzzling since the name “Peace Walker” appears nowhere in the text. And the subtitle suggests that the two main characters are legendary rather than real.

Taylor acknowledges that there are many versions of these events. In addition to hers, intended for children as young as eight, readers should also know about two recommended resources: Hiawatha: Founder of the Iroquois Confederacy by Nancy Bonvillain (North American Indians of Achievement series) and The Great Peace, a CD-ROM available through Goodminds.com.