Giveaways: An ABC Book of Loanwords from the Americas

Giveaways is a delightfully illustrated, wonderfully informative book by Linda Boyden. Hours of research and creativity went into this colorful book about words the Native Americans have 'given' to the English language. Want to know a good way to protect sheep? Read about a llama. Where did the idea of a barbeque come from? Ask the Taino people of the Caribbean. There are even legends about why the opossum's tail is hairless and how the Fanilusa Bayou got its name. Each page is lavishly illustrated with Linda's magnificent and imaginative illustrations, showing that she is a talented artist as well as author. Linda tells about each word she's chosen, as well as adding a bibliography in the back full of more fun facts. I love Giveaways and have now added it to my substitute bag of tricks. I know it will thrill and delight the elementary children I work with.

Weak on content. Not impressed for the price. The français book: L'Indien généreux (Tardivel, Vaugeois, Coté) has over 200 words. It is not quite adult and may be difficult for young readers. Was truly disappointed as was looking for a comparable work in English.

Children (and adults) will have fun with this book as they learn that many of the words they use today in the English language are words borrowed from other parts of the world. Add that to the beautiful cut-paper illustrations and you have a wonderful book the whole family will enjoy.

I'm a librarian, and this book makes a nice addition to our Native American collection. It's full of quirky facts, sure to please both the avid researcher and word lover. It's also perfect for the younger set, as my first grade son was thrilled to find out where words like barbeque and toboggan come from.