Astorga, Amalia & Gary Paul Nabhan. Efrain of the Sonoran Desert: A Lizard's Life Among the Seri Indians. Illus. by Janet K. miller.
The zebra-tailed lizard is becoming extinct, except in those areas of Baja California populated by a small tribe of Seri indians. Nabhan, a naturalist and environmentalist, returned to Seri lands to ask the people how they kept these animals alive. The story in this book is the answer, provided by a Seri Elder. A special lizard named Efrain became a friend of the Astorga familly. He showed up regularly to be fed and, it seemed, to socialize. When he was killed by wild dogs, the entire family mourned his passing. The book closes with information on the Seri tribe, their methods of cultural transmission and survival in a harsh environment, and their story embedded in it. This is an excellent tool for beginning discussions on a number of topics, from cultural values to enironmentalism. Miller's illustrations are extraordinary. Created using a technique called reverse glass painting, the pictures are precise and clear, with blocks of vivid color and finely delineated forms. The primitive look, reminiscent of Carmen Lomas Garza's work, enhances the primary-source feeling of the text. This is not a book students will pick up on their own, but given its value both as story and as information, it merits sharing. - Ann Welton, Grant Elementary School, Tacoma, WA.