The Four Hills of Life

Book Receives Independent Book Publisher's
First Prize

College of Education and Human Service Professions Dean Paul Deputy said, "The art, photography, and wisdom are worthy of this award.” Peacock, who also holds an appointment as Professor of the American Indian Endowed Chair, opens the book with the following quote, "My heart still sings the songs of my childhood." The book gives the reader the experience of that truth no matter what point they are in life.

The Four Hills Of Life uses an Ojibwe perspective in telling the story about the path we walk through the seasons of life, from the springtime of youth through the winter of old age. The hills one climbs along the way are the challenges to face and the responsibilities to accept. The path is not always easy; some of us lose our way. We can question life, and by taking the good path, we commit to values and fulfill our goals.

Through engaging text, colorful illustrations, and activities designed especially for youth and young adults, The Four Hills Of Life shows how everything in creation follows this path in the great circle of life.

Thomas Peacock is a member of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and a professor of education at UMD. Marlene Wisuri is an internationally acclaimed photographer and director of the Carlton County Historical Society in Cloquet, Minnesota.

The Four Hills of Life: Ojibwe Wisdom (Hardcover)
by Thomas Peacock , Marlene Wisuri
Afton Historical Society Press (May 2006)

— written by Cheryl Reitan

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