• Age: 4 to 8
• Grade: p to 3
• Reading age: 4 to 8

Born of Mohawk and Cayuga descent, music legend Robbie Robertson learned the story of Hiawatha and his spiritual guide, the Peacemaker, as part of the Iroquois oral tradition. Now he shares the same gift of storytelling with parents and children in a beautifully illustrated picture book retelling the story.

Includes a song from Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Robbie Robertson (The Band)
"A much-needed, authentic Native American voice to children’s literature.” —Booklist (starred review)
"A beautifully retold version of this tale.” —School Library Journal (starred review)

Caldecott Honor–winning illustrator David Shannon brings the journey of Hiawatha and the Peacemaker to life with beautiful full-color oil paintings. Together, Robertson and Shannon have crafted a new children’s classic that will both educate and inspire readers of all ages.

The five Haudenosaunee (now more commonly referred to as the Iroquois) Nations are constantly warring with one another, fueled by the evil Chief Tadodaho. The Mohawk warrior Hiawatha, too, is consumed by grief and anger, but a Peacemaker appears and enlists him to assist in joining the tribes together under the Great Law.

Hiawatha was a strong and articulate warrior and so was chosen to bring this new message of unity to the warring nations during the 14th century before Europeans arrived in North America. After traveling with the Peacemaker to the different tribes hoping for peace, Hiawatha finds forgiveness within himself.

This message not only succeeded in uniting the tribes but also forever changed how the Iroquois governed themselves—a blueprint for democracy that would later inspire the authors of the US Constitution.

Includes a CD featuring an original song written and performed by Robbie Robertson.

Robbie Robertson was the lead guitarist and primary songwriter of the legendary musical group the Band. Rolling Stone named him one of the greatest guitarists of all time. He lives in Los Angeles.

Robbie Robertson's profile page

DAVID SHANNON est un auteur de renom international. Il a écrit plus de 30 albums illustrés, y compris Non, David!, un livre sur la liste d'honneur Caldecott. Il est aussi le créateur des livres à succès Alice la Fée, Des poux plein la tête et de Trop de jouets.

David Shannon is the internationally acclaimed creator of more than 30 picture books, including No, David!, a Caldecott Honor Book and his second New York Times Best Illustrated Book of the Year, and four more David picture books. Shannon's bestsellers include A Bad Case of Stripes, Duck on a Bike, and Too Many Toys. He lives in Southern California with his family and Roy, their West Highland White Terrier.

David Shannon's profile page

"Shannon’s penetrating oil paintings expressively capture the initial tension and uncertainty with which these messengers of peace are met, and the tranquility that replaces it...a CD that includes a song written and performed by Robertson underscore the author’s evident emotional connection to this story and passion for passing it on."

Publishers Weekly

"Expressive, handsome, and well-documented."

Kirkus Reviews

STARRED REVIEW
"Hiawatha and the Peacemaker adds a much-needed, authentic Native American voice to children’s literature. Its message of peace and Shannon’s incredible art make for a winning combination."

Booklist

STARRED REVIEW
"Robertson offers a beautifully retold version of this tale...[t]he bright colors of Shannon’s full-page spreads add depth and volume, giving readers greater understanding."

School Library Journal