This is an exceptional poetry collection written by Lakota students in the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth grades at Red Cloud Indian School on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. The historic school was founded in 1888 at the request of Chief Red Cloud of the Oglala Lakota. The poems enable readers to learn about the unique lives and heritage of students growing up in such distinctive circumstances and straddling cultures. The collection was compiled by a teacher at the school, working with school administrators, and contains never-before-published artworks by award-winning artist S. D. Nelson. Praise for "Walking on Earth and Touching the Sky" STARRED REVIEW "This is an important collection that offers opportunities for insight into a culture that has too often been either ignored or misunderstood." --"Booklist," starred review "A moving, fascinating glimpse across cultures.

Vivid, polychromatic illustrations by Nelson accompany the students evocative works." --"Kirkus Reviews" "As a collection, the poems present an interesting, eye-opening look at the Lakota culture, which is one that is often overlooked. The paintings by S.D. Nelson are gorgeous and vibrant." --"Library Media Connection" Awards: New York Public Library s Children's Books 2012: 100 Books for Reading and Sharing list HONORABLE MENTION - 2012 Aesop Accolade, American Folklore Society Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People 2013".