DRUMBEAR. . .HEARTBEAT

A nuts-and-bolts look at a revered, fun celebration. ``Check out a powwow sometime,'' the author advises in this installment of the We Are Still Here series, ``There are thousands of these celebrations throughout the country every year. You'll love it, too!'' From the initial setting up of camp to the final dance contest, the powwow of Braine's book emphasizes Northern Plains dancing, drumming, and costumes, and combines features of a county fair, rodeo, dance festival, family reunion, and celebration of Indian heritage. Full-color photos show the camp, food vendors, attendees, dancers, and drummers. She also describes a ``giveaway'' ceremony in which gifts are given in honor of a family member. Similar to Robert Crum's Eagle Drum (1994), which has a more lyrical narration, Braine's provides a brief glossary and further reading. (Picture book/nonfiction. 8-12)