Presents a modern retelling of a St:lo (Coast Salish) legend about the origin of a tribal treasure, the wondrous Sxwaixwe mask. Discusses the legend's origins, the process of transforming essentially oral sources into an accessible contemporary form, and the educational value of storytelling. Contains 13 references. (SV)

Examines the incidence of frightening figures and unhappy endings in traditional and modern Inuit stories and identifies purpose for these elements. Monsters and unhappy endings apparently are tools to help children come to terms with Eskimo environment and values. Studies the conclusions and implications for Indian education. (TES)

Non-Native scholarly interpretations of The Three Bears--a traditional story of the Nlha7kapmx Nation--focus on mythology as simplistic science to explain the physical world. In contrast, a Nlha7kapmx interpretation illuminates connections of land to people. Such stories reinforce cultural identity and teach young people about the spiritual power…

Discusses how Lord Tennyson's poetry and Chief Seathl's writings reflect radically different world views and presuppositions about man's relationship to other animals and the environment. Advocates schools either teach students techniques enabling them to uncover bias or have them read materials more in accord with ecologically sound…

Oral tradition and newness of literacy in Canadian Indian languages create lack of Indian reading materials. Paper examines need for more American Indian-language reading materials for second-language instruction. Suggests Indian literacy programs and other first steps toward producing Native literature. (TES)