The Song of Hiawatha

Reviewers largely praise this book for its beautiful and breathtaking illustrations, often highlighted as impressive and wonderful, with one edition specifically noted for its exquisite artwork and a prestigious award. Many found the words themselves to be beautiful, appreciating the poem's rhythm and cadence. The story is described as delightful, optimistic, and descriptive, focusing on the gentle journey of a child learning about the natural world from his grandmother, fostering an appreciation for animals and their ways of life.

However, some criticisms emerged regarding the poem's style, with one reviewer referencing a humorous take on its perceived repetitiveness, suggesting the full poem might be less engaging than individual lines. There was also a divergence of opinion on the illustrations; while generally lauded, some felt the artistic style, described as "70s pop/mod," was not a good fit for the subject matter. Concerns were also raised about the poem's cultural sensitivity and whether it remains respectful of First Peoples, alongside a note about the absence of an author's note.

Overall, this book appears to be a visually stunning edition of a classic poem, offering a gentle and descriptive narrative about childhood and nature. While the exquisite illustrations are a major draw and widely celebrated, potential readers should be aware of differing views on their stylistic compatibility and questions regarding the poem's contemporary cultural relevance. It would likely appeal to those who appreciate classic poetry, especially for its rhythm and language, as well as readers seeking a visually rich experience and a tender story about a child's early learning, particularly as a read-aloud for children.