Copyright Date:
2018
Edition Date:
2018
Release Date:
09/04/18
ISBN:
1-7722-7218-3
ISBN 13:
978-1-7722-7218-5
Dewey:
398
Language:
English
Reviews:
School Library Journal
Gr 3-5 These folktales depict the harshness of the Arctic environment and culture. The introduction reveals these tales as "Dream-histories"sacred works of Inuit linking them to their ancestors. While children might see them as good scary fun, they also receive a glimpse into those past generations. In the first tale, a boy is kidnapped by the horrific amautalik while playing and forced to be her servant until he is finally set free by a small bird. Next, a man attempts to outwit the akhla , a cross between a grizzly bear and a human who raids graves and camps. In the third story, Nanurluk, a huge polar bear, threatens the camps. One young man decides to attack. He runs toward the bear and is swallowed whole. He attacks the creature from the inside and survives a hero. Now he thinks he is invincible and does not heed the warnings of the villagers when the next threat appears. The last story introduces Mahaha, a humanlike creature, lean and gray and very cold. He preys on the wife of a hunter, tickling her in a vicious way, torturing her until her breath is no more. When her husband returns from the hunt, he tricks the beast and avenges his wife's death. The harsh environment plays a role in all four stories. These frightening creatures are reflected in colorful and gruesome, realistic drawings. Each monster figure, even though scary, is sure to appeal to young readers. Margaret R. Tassia, Millersville University, PA
The Shadows that Rush Past introduces young readers to some of the creepiest, scariest stories from Inuit mythology.These tales, told by critically acclaimed writer Rachel Qitsualik, bring to life four creatures from Inuit mythology: the amautalik, akhla, nanurluk, and mahaha. These tales are filled with child-stealing ogresses; monsters that are half-man, half-grizzly bear; ice-covered polar bears ten times the size of normal bears; and a smiling creature that surprises unsuspecting campers and tickles them to death! Written in a playful, conversational, sometimes funny style, The Shadows that Rush Pastwill keep young readers anxious for the thrilling frights that might lurk on the next page.