Author & Illustrator Profile
Paul Goble
4 Books
Paul Goble was a British-born American author and illustrator known for picture books inspired by Native American traditions, particularly those of the Great Plains. His books often combine bold, highly detailed artwork with sensitive retellings of traditional stories and historical events. Some of his most enduring works include Buffalo Woman, Dream Wolf, and the trickster tales featuring Iktomi. Goble dedicated his career to visually preserving and sharing these vibrant cultural narratives with young readers.
Books in "Iktomi"
Iktomi, the infamous Plains Indian trickster, is always looking for an easy meal and a chance to show off his cleverness. After successfully tricking a group of prairie dogs, he thinks he has secured a grand and delicious feast.
But his oversized ego soon gets the better of him. The wily Coyote is watching nearby, ready to turn the tables on the boastful trickster. It becomes a hilarious battle of wits where the greatest prankster might just end up being the one who gets played.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
The mischievous trickster Iktomi is back, and this time he has his sights set on some delicious buffalo berries. Spotting the bright red fruit shimmering in the water, Iktomi dives in to grab a massive handful.
No matter how many times he plunges into the river, he comes up completely empty-handed and soaking wet. His endless comical efforts and frustrating failures highlight the foolishness of acting before thinking in this hilarious adventure.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
Iktomi is determined to reach the great powwow, but his journey hits a major snag when he reaches a wide, rushing river. Always looking for a shortcut, the trickster convinces a passing buzzard to ferry him across the water on its back.
However, Iktomi simply cannot resist making fun of the bird's bald head. The offended buzzard quickly teaches the boastful trickster a lesson in manners, sending him tumbling headfirst into a hollow tree.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
Iktomi is feeling particularly proud of himself as he struts across the Great Plains in his beautiful new blanket. When the weather grows hot, he casually drapes his prized blanket over a large boulder, offering it as a generous gift.
But when a sudden rainstorm approaches, the trickster changes his mind and snatches the blanket back. The deeply offended boulder decides to chase him down, forcing Iktomi to rely on some friendly bats to save him from being flattened.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
