Ten-year-old McKenzie Jones stands out from the other kids, and she doesn’t like it one bit. But her boasts about her Wampanoag heritage get her in a spot with her teacher. Now she’ll have to learn all there is to know about being Wampanoag in one weekend—in time to give a presentation to the ... more

Ten-year-old McKenzie Jones stands out from the other kids, and she doesn’t like it one bit. But her boasts about her Wampanoag heritage get her in a spot with her teacher. Now she’ll have to learn all there is to know about being Wampanoag in one weekend—in time to give a presentation to the entire school on Monday! A Mom’s Choice Awards Silver Medalist for 2010, this charming story of a little girl’s awakening to the power of her history and heritage will inspire children to learn about their own ancestors, and reinforce the importance of self-esteem and a strong sense of place. Invaluable for parents and teachers looking for real-life examples of Native culture and to promote awareness of the survival of Native American culture into the present day. “Readable, intelligent and honest, this is the book that many of us have been waiting for. It deserves a wide readership and should be embraced by Indian and non-Indian readers and teachers alike.” -- Joseph Bruchac, best-selling author of Keepers of the Faith

Stephanie Duckworth-Elliot created a great adventure in a compelling journey through an incredible story portrayed in the life of McKenzie Jones, who was challenged by her teacher to present the history of her Native American culture in front of the entire class. She is a proud, strong woman, who be... more

Stephanie Duckworth-Elliot created a great adventure in a compelling journey through an incredible story portrayed in the life of McKenzie Jones, who was challenged by her teacher to present the history of her Native American culture in front of the entire class. She is a proud, strong woman, who believes in her Wampanoag heritage, and her upbringing shines light into her heart. Although she works hard trying to convince classmates of the history, and knowledge of her roots, can she prepare decades of history in one weekend? Does her grandfather help her to absorb the history and wisdom of the ancient Wampanoag culture, and is she confident to stand tall with her presentation? Will she remember to present the morals and values of a proud culture, while removing misconceptions that exist, or will she face humiliation, and disciplinary action? I highly recommend this novel to young adults, and to anyone interested in the history of the Native American culture. I also recommend this book to young women, who wish to build their self-esteem and confidence by following the strength, and spirit of McKenzie. The author painted a portrait of vivid imagery. The cover is picture-perfect in the second edition, with true to life characters in a breathtaking story. In the end, does McKenzie find the final peace that she has been searching for? Stephanie Duckworth-Elliot penned a setting where the legends told from McKenzie's grandfather can be softly heard in the background as warrior's dance to the beating of drums, trning the plot into a Masterpiece. Follow McKenzie to the farm, where she tended chores with the light of her life, her grandfather. Listen carefully to his wondrous storytelling as the bond between him, and McKenzie becomes stronger. Did Mckenze's grandfather help McKenzie to grow in spirit, while claiming her Wampanoag identity? "PONEASEQUA: THE GODDESS OF THE WATERS" is as entertaining as THE HORSE WHISPERER, and as inspiring as Walt Disney's TUCK EVERLASTING.