Author: Diane Hoyt-Goldsmith
Title: Lacrosse: The National Game of the Iroquois

Publisher: Holiday House, 1998

Grade Level: 3-6

Summary: This book traces the history of lacrosse including the connection to the Iroquois as well as a comparison to modern day lacrosse.

Strengths: I think children will really be interested in finding out the history of lacrosse, especially how it originated and how it remains an integral part of the Iroquois American Indians. By following 13 year old Monte Lyons, children have another child to relate to throughout the history. The Lyons family is American Indian citizens of the Onondaga, which I think is extremely important for children to understand, that American Indians are not a people of the past, but are still a part of American society. I think the biggest strength is the comparison between the original game of lacrosse and the modern game of lacrosse, which will be particularly interesting for students who play lacrosse. I also found the pictures and the information on the rules of game very helpful. I think the history of the Iroquois nation also helps students to understand the people, not just the game. I especially liked the vocabulary and how it was spelled phonetically as well as the glossary in the back of the book. Overall, a very informative book.

Concerns: I think some female lacrosse players will be disappointed to know that there is no discussion of women’s lacrosse. However, this may be the perfect opportunity to provide supplemental information on women’s lacrosse.

Classroom Use: This book would be a great supplement to a study on American Indians, particularly because it shows present day American Indians. Another activity might be creating a Venn Diagram, comparing the original game of lacrosse with present day lacrosse, as well as including women’s lacrosse. I think students would find the activity interesting, plus it would give them an opportunity to practice graphic organizers.

(image from Amazon.com)