Buffalo Hunt
         In this detailed account of the life of buffalo hunting, Russell Freedman presents the information accompanied by paintings.  The paintings, created by different artists, are able to bring the story to life.  The information is well-organized and presented in five chapters, plus a section which speaks about the illustrations, and finally an index.  Teachers can use this book as a tool when teaching about the Indians� way of life.  The table of contents is provided at the beginning for easy planning and to aid in the division of lessons.  The chapters are
presented in a logical order of sequence, beginning with the chapter explaining how the buffalo is considered, �A Gift From The Great Spirit�, followed by the preparation for the hunt, and the chapter titled, �The Hunt�.  Following the description of the hunting events, comes the chapter in which the author describes how the buffalo is used, �From the Brains to the Tail�. Finally, the author describes in his last chapter, how the buffalo is over-hunted and what life is like, �With The Buffalo Gone�. In this manner, the reader is guided through the entire process of buffalo hunting, from its beginnings, to its consequences.
          The design of the book is quite appealing.  The cover features a paining by an unknown artist.  This one features an Indian on horseback aiming an arrow at a buffalo.  Despite the absence of photography to accompany the text, Russell Freedman�s choice of paintings are what make the design of the book appealing to readers.  The cover inspires curiosity, and the inside contents do not fail to deliver amazing information and life to the text.
          The author is careful not to stereotype neither the Indians, nor the white man, but instead focuses solely on the facts and events.  When speaking of how and when the white man came into the picture, he explains how a series of events (perhaps �mistakes� on both sides) came to affect the buffalo population.  He states that �white traders wanted buffalo robes and tongues� to sell for profit, but also points out that Indians began to kill the buffalo �for their hides and tongues alone� also causing the disappearance of this great animal.
          Mr. Freeman is true to the history and accurate in his writing.  The result is an unbiased account of buffalo hunting and Native American way of life which readers of all ages can enjoy.

Freedman, Russell. 1988. Buffalo hunt. New York: Holiday House, Inc. ISBN 0-8234-0702-0.
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