Journey into Mohawk Country/as written by H.M. van den Bogaert, with artwork by George O’Connor and color by Hilary Sicamore. (First Second, 2006).
Can you imagine trying to get 4th-5th graders excited about reading the journal of a Dutch man who made a business trip into Iroquois territory in 1634? Yet, the above book, I believe, will not only make the task possible, but enjoyable. George O’Connor has adapted the translation of an actual journal into graphic novel format. The pictures just bring it to life, providing context for research and literary analysis.
As far as reading level, this is probably a bit too difficult for many of my students, but I really hope to acquire a class set for the library and work on it together with the kids, giving them some very targeted tasks to pursue as they read. Before I lose my note cards, I’ll transfer some of my thoughts here.
1. Discovering how historians can use primary docs. to piece together the past: Numerous descriptions of temporary shelters, permanent dwellings, clothing, food. (See these pages, among many others: 13,17-18,19,33)
Question: The author calls the pallisaded villages “castles?” Why does he do this? How do they remind him of castles?
Comparison of medical practices: Van den Bogaert, a barber-surgeon, makes cuts in a companion’s legs to relieve swelling (p. 20) He later witnesses a native healing practice. (p. 20 53-55, 103-105) This can launch some mini-research into various medical practices of the time.
Sewant (Wampum): I was taught as a kid that “wampum” was money. It had a particular value as a trade item because the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) did not live by the ocean. It was not, however, the official coin of the realm. (p. 132 and elsewhere) (Now that I’m thinking of it, I believe I read somewhere that not only did glass beads begin to replace shell beads in value, but also that some Europeans actually set up workshops to make the shell beads. I have to check on that for another posting.)
Beavers–what was it about them? They don’t look that soft, so why did the Dutch want so many? (p. 28)
Mention of a marten’s head and other animals as idols, fortunetellers and good luck charms. (p. 22-23). Seems like a good place to investigate cultural misunderstandings.
Geography and climate: Having lived in that part of the country, I think I was able to sort of figure out the route at first. (I think it was northwest, but more west than north.) This is for me to pursue. For the kids, though, it would be good to keep track of words that describe and terrain and weather. Later in the year, this might make it easier for them to understand the importance of the Erie Canal.
Also, van den Bogaert is careful to mention “flat land.” Would they be able to conjecture why this would be significant?
Whew!! I’ve got more notes that I thought. I will have to continue this tomorrow.
