The Way of the Warrior: Stories of the Crow People

With vigor and insight, Crow elders tell their favorite stories of the exploits of memorable leaders from years past in The Way of the Warrior. Rousing adventures and unforgettable warriors inhabit these tales: the impetuous Rabbit Child, who rushes to his fate as he keeps a sacred vow; the rise to power and dreaded revenge of Red Bear, one of the greatest and most spiritually powerful Crow leaders; the dazzling success and even greater shame of Spotted Horse; and the legendary bravery of Top of the Mountain.

 

Decades ago the storytellers represented in this volume—including Carl Crooked Arm, Plain Feather, and Cold Wind—recounted these tales to two Crow brothers, Henry Old Coyote and Barney Old Coyote Jr. The Old Coyote brothers recorded, transcribed, and translated into English the accounts, which have now been edited and introduced by Barney's granddaughter, Phenocia Bauerle. Bauerle’s editing has preserved the power of the traditional Crow oral tales and has made them accessible to non-Crow readers as well. The result is a work that entertains and teaches readers about traditional Crow leaders and their world. This remarkable collection of stories also shows that the values that guided and inspired the Crow people in the past remain meaningful for them today.