Walking in beauty

Walking in Beauty by Susan Kent, published by McGraw-Hill School Division in 2002, is a 16-page work that explores the experiences of Indian children, specifically focusing on the Navajo Indians. The narrative follows Always Running and her brother, Looks-Behind-Him, as they navigate the challenges of attending a special school designed to teach them the ways of white people, contrasting their longing to return to their family and the beauty of their cultural heritage.

Readers will find a poignant depiction of the struggle between cultural identity and external expectations. The story highlights the children’s desire to reconnect with their roots and the beauty of their upbringing, providing insight into the complexities faced by Indigenous youth in a changing world. This edition presents a concise yet impactful exploration of themes related to cultural heritage and the impact of assimilation on personal identity.