TWO BAD BOYS
adapted by Gail E. Haley & illustrated by Gail E. Haley
From Haley (Mountain Jack Tales, 1992, etc.), an engrossing story, subtitled ``A Very Old Cherokee Tale,'' complete with author's note, that mirrors the Christian creation myth and explains how labor came into the world. The first family—Kanati the First Hunter, Selu the Corn Mother, and Boy—live an idyllic life until Boy gets lonely. His reflection in a pool of water becomes Wild Boy, his untamed alter ego and trouble-making playmate. They spy on their father's hunting secrets, but when they try to hunt, all the animals escape from the cave, leading the boys into a life-long search for them. When they find out where their mother gets corn and beans, she destroys the source, and they are forced to grow their own food. The transgression of moral authority and the dual nature of existence are themes which have echoes throughout western literature; this Cherokee legend confirms the universality of human nature. (Picture book/folklore. 5-8)