To Walk the Sky: How Iroquois Steelworkers Helped Build Towering Cities – A Beautifully Illustrated History of Mohawk Skywalkers and Their Legacy by E B Lewis, Patricia Morris Buckley
on January 28, 2025
ISBN: 0063046970
Genres: Cultural / Native American, Non-Fiction
Format: Picture Book Nonfiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads

Native Americans are widely known for their powerful connection to the Earth, however, this book sheds light on a different skill; their historical connection to the sky, and the man-made, steel structures that stretch up to meet it.

The book takes us through the history of a land deal made between the Mohawk tribe and the Dominion Bridge Company in exchange for the opportunity for Mohawk Natives to take jobs working for them. To the construction bosses’ surprise, the Mohawk Natives appeared comfortable atop the tallest beams and even delighted moving among them like tightrope walkers. These daredevils became famously known as Skywalkers.

This picture book is an important homage to the Skywalkers and the pride in their unique ability to defy gravity. It includes the devastating collapse of the Quebec Bridge in 1907 and the tragedy of the Twin Towers in NYC. These tragedies did not defeat their passion to walk among the clouds and we have a long list of important structures throughout the United States that are still standing strong and continue to be built today. E.B. Lewis’ watercolor illustrations add to the beauty of the book’s message. A great addition to any library’s non-fiction section. Recommended for ages 6-12

Reviewed by Gia Charles, Patten Free Library, Bath