The Bluebirds of Paint Creek - Susan Goldsberry Coterel

The Bluebirds of Paint Creek is the third edition of The Hart Family Adventure Series. It is again set in southern Ohio and is an exciting trip down Paint Creek in canoes. The central theme of the book is looking for birds and their meaning to the Cherokee people. But, of course, there are other side adventures and fun that happen along the way. Granny Maybelle, the Cherokee grandmother, leads the journey and explains the significance of the wildlife that they encounter. Sophie Hart is the featured child in this adventure. She is also accompanied by sisters and cousins making for a fun family outing. Molly May, the loveable Hart family dog, accompanies the children and plays a large role in the fun. At the end of the journey the entire family gathers for Sophie Hart to receive her Native American name from Granny Maybelle. This name will remain with her for life and become part of her character. The book is beautifully illustrated with pen and ink drawings colored with pastels. At the end of the book are two Activity sections for children to write their own poem about birds and to begin observing birds in their own neighborhood.