I am Osage How Clarence Tinker became the first Native American major general

Still honored, the author writes, in an Osage Nation drum and dance ceremony every June as "one of their greatest warriors," Tinker received an officer's commission in 1908 and went on to become an army pilot and, in 1942, a major general, before being killed at the Battle of Midway. With the refrain, "I am Osage. I am Osage," pounding like a drumbeat throughout her account, Rogers celebrates the way he held onto his Indigenous roots through Indian boarding school, military academy training, and afterward, before closing with a note explaining his importance to her as a role model on her personal journey toward acceptance of her Native American heritage. Appropriately, images of drummers recur in Von Martin's grave, formal acrylics as he digitally assembles montages of photorealistic figures, usually clad either in military uniforms or vividly patterned blankets and ceremonial dress. A closing time line of Osage and Wichita history from 1820 on adds further detail and historical context to this proud remembrance.

A nation honors an extraordinary warrior who never forgot his identity. Every year since 1942, the Osage people have sung their ceremonial drum song to remember the first Native American general, Clarence Tinker, who was killed during the Battle of Midway in World War II. Rogers (Wichita) shares Major General Clarence Tinker's heartaches and successes and honors his legacy of service. She explains how, years before he was born, the Osage were removed from their land by European settlers. As a child, Tinker was sent to boarding school and made to give up his Indigenous customs. He refused to forget them, however, and constantly reminded himself that he was Osage. He joined the Army Air Corps and longed to serve in World War I, but his commanding officer wouldn't allow it. ("Is it because I am Osage?" he wondered.) He eventually realized his dream of becoming a pilot, and in 1942, he became the highest-ranking Indigenous American in history. The repeated phrase "I am Osage" establishes a rhythm throughout the story, like a drum beat, and appears at pivotal points in Tinker's life. Von Martin's bold, photorealistic images complement the text; lighter, superimposed images of his ancestors make it clear that Tinker's Osage identity was a constant source of strength. Rogers' storytelling brings to life a kindhearted, resilient historical figure who was devoted to his community. Spotlights a commendable role model and his rich heritage. (author's note, Osage and Wichita history, timeline, note from author-curator of Heartdrum) (Picture-book biography. 6-10) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.