The Christmas Coat: Memories of My Sioux Childhood

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The Christmas Coat: Memories of My Sioux Childhood

Bibliography
Sneve, V. D., & Beier, E. (2011). The Christmas coat: Memories of my Sioux childhood. New York: Holiday House.

Summary
It is winter time and Virginia is hoping for a new coat. The one she currently has is too small and does not protect her from the cold. As Christmas is approaching the reservation always receives theast boxes full of donated clothes. These boxes were sent from New England for the people on the Indian reservation twice per year.  However, Virginia always picks last since her father is the priest and one must first put the needs of the people. When the boxes arrive Virginia sees a lovely fur coat, but is taken by one of her school mates, Evelyn. She is devastated that she was not able to have it for herself and settle for an oversized brown one. Unfortunately, the fur coat becomes very smelly after it is exposed to rain that Virginia has to give Evelyn her brown coat. Virginia is sad that she will not have a coat for the winter that fits her. However, when Christmas comes around Virginia is surprised with a gift from the East. It is a beautiful and warm red coat.

Critical Analysis
This is a wonderful portrayal of Sioux Native Americans. The main character Virginia lives on a reservation in South Dakota and through her one can see the Native American culture. One can see family and community dynamics of Native Americans. Readers can be able to observe their daily lives through this book. For instance, how children had to walk through harsh conditions to attend school or how they had to wait for donations. One can also see that traditions were implemented on this community for Christmas is a Christian holiday. Yet, we see a Native American inspired Christmas. The wise men are wearing headdresses and other traditional Native American wear. The book is culturally accurate since is based on the author’s memoirs. The story is beautifully portrayed in the illustrations without stereotyping the characters.  

Review Excerpts
Kirkus Review, "Virginia's personality shines through in this poignant story that entertains and informs without recourse to stereotypes. (Picture book. 5-9)"

Publishers Weekly Review, “Sneve (Lana’s Lakota Moons) warm, nostalgic story recalls a holiday season on the reservation where her father was the Episcopal priest.”

Smithsonian Magazine’s Best Children’s Books Review, “The author recalls a childhood when an act of simple kindness ultimately became its own reward.”

Connections
A journal prompt that could be given to students about the story could be about a time they gave up something they wanted because someone else needed it. Other books that are similar:

Driving Hawk Sneve, Virginia. Dancing Teepees: Poems of American Indian Youth. ISBN 9780823407248
Driving Hawk Sneve, Virginia. Bad River Boys: A Meeting of the Lakota Sioux with Lewis and Clark. ISBN 9780823418565

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