ACKNOWLEDGMENTS I did not take the writing of this book lightly It is an important story that is an integral part of our country’s history and one that has difficult truths in it Besides my own research for this book I am so grateful to those who helped in the process Tremendous thanks to Dr Ann Robertson Native American Studies teacher in the Sioux Falls School District and consultant for the Center for American Indian Research and Native Studies and Jace DeCory assistant professor in American Indian Studies at Black Hills State University who both vetted the story for historical and cultural accuracy Any mistakes are entirely my own Many thanks to my editor Barb McNally for making the editing process so positive and smooth And to Catherine Frank for her editorial insights and thoughts Continuing thanks to my agent Ann Tobias You are appreciated more than words can express Sheila O’Connor teacher and friend I thank you for coffee talks and encouragement And to my sister and group of friends who have encircled me with support You are my everything
VOCABULARY Lakota One of three divisions of the Oceti Sakowin Seven Council Fires Native American tribe living primarily on the western plains of South Dakota Tiospaye Lakota term for an extended family group living together in a small community Tribe Two or more groups of tiospayes tiospaye ki whose members collectively form a larger group of Native Americans He Sapa Lakota name for the Black Hills Wasna A dish that consisted of dried berries dried buffalo and fat Considered a healing dish Wotawe A medicine pouch filled with items that offer protection to its wearer
