Sky Dancers

"Set in the 1930s, nonfiction author Kirk's debut picture book tells the story of John Cloud, a young Mohawk boy, and his relationship with his steelworker father, who is helping to build the Empire State Building. . . Kirk's research into the Mohawk culture and the experience of Native steelworkers adds authenticity, making this a true-to-life portrait of family life and traditions."

"Children will thrill in Hale's images of the 'sky dancers' casually strolling along the narrow beams. This will work nicely to extend children's understanding of Native American traditions, and Kirk's carefully phrased author's note provides clear-eyed background on how members of this particular group came to be disproportionately represented in such a spine-tingling line of work."

"Sky Dancers is a book for children written by Connie Ann Kirk (Seneca) which tells the story of a boy whose grandfather and father are Mohawk steelworkers. The story itself is just terrific and many adults will enjoy reading it too. The illustration is colorful for the kids and fits the story to a tee. Beautifully bound, this hardcover book features 32 pages of pure enjoyment that will surely last a lifetime or two."

"First-time picture book author Connie Ann Kirk extensively researched the Mohawk Indians' role in building New York City's skyscrapers and bridges, telling a story rich in history and tradition. . . Christy Hale's paintings burst with vibrant autumn colors and soaring compositions that pay tribute to the steelworkers as true 'sky dancers'."