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The Indian in the Cupboard #1
The Indian in the Cupboard
The Indian in the Cupboard is the first of five gripping books about Omri and his plastic North American Indian – Little Bull – who comes alive when Omri puts him in a cupboard
For Omri, it is a dream come true when the plastic American Indian he locks into the old cupboard comes to life. Little Bull is everything an Indian brave should be – proud, fearless and defiant.
But being in charge of a real, live, human being is a heavy responsibility, as Omri soon discovers. And when his best friend, Patrick, is let in on the secret, he soon realises that life-changing decisions lie ahead.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1980
About the author
Lynne Reid Banks
101 books408 followersLynne Reid Banks is a British author of books for children and adults. She has written forty books, including the best-selling children's novel The Indian in the Cupboard, which has sold over 10 million copies and been made into a film.
Banks was born in London, the only child of James and Muriel Reid Banks. She was evacuated to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada during World War II but returned after the war was over. She attended St Teresa's School in Surrey. Prior to becoming a writer Banks was an actress, and also worked as a television journalist in Britain, one of the first women to do so. Her first novel, The L-Shaped Room, was published in 1960.
In 1962 Banks emigrated to Israel, where she taught for eight years on an Israeli kibbutz Yasur. In 1965 she married Chaim Stephenson, with whom she had three sons. Although the family returned to England in 1971 and Banks now lives in Dorset, the influence of her time in Israel can be seen in some of her books which are set partially or mainly on kibbutzim.
Banks was born in London, the only child of James and Muriel Reid Banks. She was evacuated to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada during World War II but returned after the war was over. She attended St Teresa's School in Surrey. Prior to becoming a writer Banks was an actress, and also worked as a television journalist in Britain, one of the first women to do so. Her first novel, The L-Shaped Room, was published in 1960.
In 1962 Banks emigrated to Israel, where she taught for eight years on an Israeli kibbutz Yasur. In 1965 she married Chaim Stephenson, with whom she had three sons. Although the family returned to England in 1971 and Banks now lives in Dorset, the influence of her time in Israel can be seen in some of her books which are set partially or mainly on kibbutzim.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,982 reviews
November 21, 2011
Apparently many people feel that this book is full of racist stereotypes. I can see where they're coming from, starting with the outdated term Indian, as opposed to Native American (or Iroquois, in this case). Not only that, but the Indian in the book, Little Bear, speaks in very broken English, and he has a seemingly simplistic, stereotypical outlook.
However...it's hard to be mad at a book for being racist when it portrays the Indian as the wisest, bravest, most hard-working character in the book. Yes, in the beginning Omri doesn't realize that Little Bear is a PERSON. But the book is partly about Omri coming to see that Little Bear IS a person, and that to have him as a toy or a possession is completely inappropriate.
Little Bear has more self-respect in his 2.75 inch body than the vast majority of full-sized people. He wastes no time on self-pity and instead focuses on how he can create a life in which he can take care of himself in the very strange circumstances in which he finds himself. He wants to hunt for his own food, build his own home, etc. I think it's obvious to Omri, as well as to the reader, that Little Bear has a very strong system of values that include intelligence, skill, self-reliance, courage, and hard work, among other things.
It's hard for me to see how having an Indian as a toy is racist, when there is also a (caucasian) cowboy, a (caucasian) English soldier, and others who are in the same position. And perhaps it's stereotypical to have the Indian and the cowboy dislike and fight each other...but is it racist to have the Indian show himself to be smarter, braver, stronger, more skilled, more stoic and even more hygienic at every turn? Little Bear even teaches Omri (and the reader) that an Indian isn't an Indian, and that as an Iroquois brave, to use a teepee, especially one with Algonquin markings, is unthinkable.
As for the broken English...Little Bear is the only character in the book for whom English is not his first language. I actually liked the way he spoke, and was amazed at his way of cutting right to the heart of the matter with a very limited vocabulary. I could see how Little Bear's way of speaking might seem like baby talk, which would infantilize him, but I didn't take it that way. Instead I was impressed at the way he had learned enough English to get his meaning across and meet his needs. Little Bear's way of speaking did not make him seem any less intelligent, mature, or sophisticated to me.
In fact, Little Bear was portrayed as such a paragon for much of the book that one could almost find that racist -- as if Little Bear was more than human -- but he does have some weaknesses that he displays occasionally, such as his stubbornness and quickness to judge. So while Little Bear has many admirable qualities, he is not saintly.
I'm sure that there are dated, inaccurate and stereotypical elements in this book. Since I'm not Native American, I'm certainly not in the best position to judge. But if this book contributed to my image of Native Americans at all, it was in a positive way. I do think that this book's heart was in the right place, and that the author approached the Iroquois character with respect and the intention to portray him very positively. Overall I loved the book for it's clever, original, exciting plot, it's complex characterization, it's high-quality writing, and the messages it sends about what qualities are to be admired in people.
However...it's hard to be mad at a book for being racist when it portrays the Indian as the wisest, bravest, most hard-working character in the book. Yes, in the beginning Omri doesn't realize that Little Bear is a PERSON. But the book is partly about Omri coming to see that Little Bear IS a person, and that to have him as a toy or a possession is completely inappropriate.
Little Bear has more self-respect in his 2.75 inch body than the vast majority of full-sized people. He wastes no time on self-pity and instead focuses on how he can create a life in which he can take care of himself in the very strange circumstances in which he finds himself. He wants to hunt for his own food, build his own home, etc. I think it's obvious to Omri, as well as to the reader, that Little Bear has a very strong system of values that include intelligence, skill, self-reliance, courage, and hard work, among other things.
It's hard for me to see how having an Indian as a toy is racist, when there is also a (caucasian) cowboy, a (caucasian) English soldier, and others who are in the same position. And perhaps it's stereotypical to have the Indian and the cowboy dislike and fight each other...but is it racist to have the Indian show himself to be smarter, braver, stronger, more skilled, more stoic and even more hygienic at every turn? Little Bear even teaches Omri (and the reader) that an Indian isn't an Indian, and that as an Iroquois brave, to use a teepee, especially one with Algonquin markings, is unthinkable.
As for the broken English...Little Bear is the only character in the book for whom English is not his first language. I actually liked the way he spoke, and was amazed at his way of cutting right to the heart of the matter with a very limited vocabulary. I could see how Little Bear's way of speaking might seem like baby talk, which would infantilize him, but I didn't take it that way. Instead I was impressed at the way he had learned enough English to get his meaning across and meet his needs. Little Bear's way of speaking did not make him seem any less intelligent, mature, or sophisticated to me.
In fact, Little Bear was portrayed as such a paragon for much of the book that one could almost find that racist -- as if Little Bear was more than human -- but he does have some weaknesses that he displays occasionally, such as his stubbornness and quickness to judge. So while Little Bear has many admirable qualities, he is not saintly.
I'm sure that there are dated, inaccurate and stereotypical elements in this book. Since I'm not Native American, I'm certainly not in the best position to judge. But if this book contributed to my image of Native Americans at all, it was in a positive way. I do think that this book's heart was in the right place, and that the author approached the Iroquois character with respect and the intention to portray him very positively. Overall I loved the book for it's clever, original, exciting plot, it's complex characterization, it's high-quality writing, and the messages it sends about what qualities are to be admired in people.
June 13, 2021
We found our copy of The Indian in the Cupboard at a used book sale. This middle-grade fantasy is a favorite from childhood, and I was so excited to find a vintage copy in good condition. Our copy is a paperback edition from 1982. It’s a fairly quick read around 181 pages. The illustrations in our copy are somewhat lackluster, but they do offer a visual of the characters, which is a plus.
In this story, a young boy named Omri receives a cupboard as a gift from his brother Gillon on his birthday. There’s no telling where the cupboard actually came from because Gillon found it in an alley, but it’s in a box and looks brand new. Omri decides he’ll use it to house some of his toys. After putting in a plastic Indian figure that his friend Patrick gave him, he locks the cupboard with his grandmother’s magical key. The next time he opens the cabinet, he finds Little Bear, a living, breathing, Iroquois Indian. He wants to keep this a secret; after all, who knows what people will do when they find out. The last thing Omri wants is to lose his cabinet or Little Bear. He reluctantly tells his friend Patrick about the magical powers of the cupboard, and Patrick demands that Omri let him use the cupboard to produce a cowboy for him. He wants a living toy of his own, and he won’t take no for an answer.
It’s no wonder this book is loved by so many children. It’s such a magical story and even offers some background history with these living characters traveling from back in time. What I love about this story is that there’s so much left open for the reader to fill in with their own imagination too.
There are multiple conflicts in the story. Patrick, Omri’s friend, isn’t the easiest to get along with. He doesn’t seem to grasp the danger in people finding out about the cupboard and the living figures. He’s demanding, and Omri soon learns that he made a mistake telling him about the cupboard and Little Bear. The other conflict in the story is between the two living characters the boys brought to life. Boone, Patrick’s cowboy figure, doesn’t get along with Little Bear at all. This makes the story interesting.
All the characters in the story were written well. We actually didn’t like Patrick for much of the book because he isn’t a very good friend at all. In fact, most of the problems in the book arise because of him, but the story wouldn’t be what it is without him. Omri’s a good boy and wants to protect Boone and Little Bear. He never wants to abuse the power of the cabinet and key either, or the power he has over these living characters. He sees them for what they are: living beings with unique personalities and feelings. At one point in the book, Boone the cowboy is hurt, and Omri creates a doctor to heal him. It’s thought-provoking that Omri doesn’t just simply return them to their plastic forms with all the trouble it’s causing him. The secret’s getting out, and there’s no telling what’s in store for him.
The dialects of the characters were written perfectly, and it really brings the characters to life, making the story feel authentic. We used the audio along with the physical books a few times throughout, and the narrator did a nice job with it. There are a few strange pronunciations of words.
Overall, we all enjoyed this story. It still remains a favorite today. It has a satisfying ending, but it still provokes you to move right on to the next story. We plan on moving right along to the next book.
Do keep in mind that there are some ethnic slurs used in the text, but the characters are from the 1800s. The first edition was originally published in the UK. My rating for this one is 5*****.
This book is a Shabby Sunday share @www.readrantrockandroll.com.
In this story, a young boy named Omri receives a cupboard as a gift from his brother Gillon on his birthday. There’s no telling where the cupboard actually came from because Gillon found it in an alley, but it’s in a box and looks brand new. Omri decides he’ll use it to house some of his toys. After putting in a plastic Indian figure that his friend Patrick gave him, he locks the cupboard with his grandmother’s magical key. The next time he opens the cabinet, he finds Little Bear, a living, breathing, Iroquois Indian. He wants to keep this a secret; after all, who knows what people will do when they find out. The last thing Omri wants is to lose his cabinet or Little Bear. He reluctantly tells his friend Patrick about the magical powers of the cupboard, and Patrick demands that Omri let him use the cupboard to produce a cowboy for him. He wants a living toy of his own, and he won’t take no for an answer.
It’s no wonder this book is loved by so many children. It’s such a magical story and even offers some background history with these living characters traveling from back in time. What I love about this story is that there’s so much left open for the reader to fill in with their own imagination too.
There are multiple conflicts in the story. Patrick, Omri’s friend, isn’t the easiest to get along with. He doesn’t seem to grasp the danger in people finding out about the cupboard and the living figures. He’s demanding, and Omri soon learns that he made a mistake telling him about the cupboard and Little Bear. The other conflict in the story is between the two living characters the boys brought to life. Boone, Patrick’s cowboy figure, doesn’t get along with Little Bear at all. This makes the story interesting.
All the characters in the story were written well. We actually didn’t like Patrick for much of the book because he isn’t a very good friend at all. In fact, most of the problems in the book arise because of him, but the story wouldn’t be what it is without him. Omri’s a good boy and wants to protect Boone and Little Bear. He never wants to abuse the power of the cabinet and key either, or the power he has over these living characters. He sees them for what they are: living beings with unique personalities and feelings. At one point in the book, Boone the cowboy is hurt, and Omri creates a doctor to heal him. It’s thought-provoking that Omri doesn’t just simply return them to their plastic forms with all the trouble it’s causing him. The secret’s getting out, and there’s no telling what’s in store for him.
The dialects of the characters were written perfectly, and it really brings the characters to life, making the story feel authentic. We used the audio along with the physical books a few times throughout, and the narrator did a nice job with it. There are a few strange pronunciations of words.
Overall, we all enjoyed this story. It still remains a favorite today. It has a satisfying ending, but it still provokes you to move right on to the next story. We plan on moving right along to the next book.
Do keep in mind that there are some ethnic slurs used in the text, but the characters are from the 1800s. The first edition was originally published in the UK. My rating for this one is 5*****.
This book is a Shabby Sunday share @www.readrantrockandroll.com.
April 28, 2015
This book, oh man. This was the book I used to read and re-read and re-re-read as a kid. That book that the cliche reader goes through so many times that he wears out the cheap mass-market paperback and has to beg his parents to buy him another copy from the Scholastic book order forms from school ('membah dem?).
Now I get to share it with my daughter, and rediscover how grand an adventure it truly is.
OH! And anyone who hasn't read it, and is scanning down through the reviews to see if it is right for you and/or your children, let me say this: any of the reviewers complaining about racism don't understand the context of racism. "The Indian speaks like a stereotypical Indian!" That's because English is a second, or more likely a fourth or fifth, language for him. His dialog is in a stereotypical Indian voice because that's how YOU are reading it. Little Bull simply doesn't speak English all that well. He's speaking the way anyone would speak broken English, be it a Mexican or Swede or Iroquois or Martian. English is a hard language, man! Back off.
There are a few racial slurs from a cowboy character, and a few casual drops of the term 'Red Indian.' But those are kind of the point. This story shows Little Bull as brave, shrewd, caring, and most of all human. It shows the reader (as it showed me when I was young) that the slurs are from stupidity or fear. It helped me see these words should not define the people they're directed at, but rather the people they issue from.
Wow, went off on a tangent, there, huh? Sorry. Bottom line: this is a beautiful story, full of magic and acceptance and wonder.
Now I get to share it with my daughter, and rediscover how grand an adventure it truly is.
OH! And anyone who hasn't read it, and is scanning down through the reviews to see if it is right for you and/or your children, let me say this: any of the reviewers complaining about racism don't understand the context of racism. "The Indian speaks like a stereotypical Indian!" That's because English is a second, or more likely a fourth or fifth, language for him. His dialog is in a stereotypical Indian voice because that's how YOU are reading it. Little Bull simply doesn't speak English all that well. He's speaking the way anyone would speak broken English, be it a Mexican or Swede or Iroquois or Martian. English is a hard language, man! Back off.
There are a few racial slurs from a cowboy character, and a few casual drops of the term 'Red Indian.' But those are kind of the point. This story shows Little Bull as brave, shrewd, caring, and most of all human. It shows the reader (as it showed me when I was young) that the slurs are from stupidity or fear. It helped me see these words should not define the people they're directed at, but rather the people they issue from.
Wow, went off on a tangent, there, huh? Sorry. Bottom line: this is a beautiful story, full of magic and acceptance and wonder.
March 19, 2019
Okay so this is so cute and full of imagination! Wouldn't you as a kid in Elementary school love to have a magical cupboard that brought all your "plas-stikk" toys to life? Omri thought the same thing until so much trouble and lies got into his conscience. The bossy Indian, the crybaby cowboy, a demanding friend, a loose rat in the house....
So much fun to read. Felt like a kid all over again. I think this would be a good book for kids who hate reading.
So much fun to read. Felt like a kid all over again. I think this would be a good book for kids who hate reading.
November 5, 2019
A favorite read-aloud of my Grade 3 students!
October 13, 2007
I read this as a kid and I just re-read it last week b/c I'm teaching it to my 4th graders. I love it for the vocabulary (wielded, lithely, haughtily) that I get to expose them to. I love it for the well-defined characters. Yesterday my students wrote from the perspective of Little Bear and they loved it. (Me cold. Who this big man? What want?) And I love it for the fantastical story. Great book for kids and fun to read again as an adult.
July 3, 2017
Omri is a young boy who receives a cupboard from his best friend Patrick. When he uses his Grandmother's old key with a red satin ribbon in the cupboard with his Indian, something magical begins to happen in the cupboard. His Indian magically comes to life. Can Omri handle the magic of bringing his toys to life? Read on and find out for yourself.
This was a pretty good read. I had seen the film when I was younger but didn't know it was based on a book so when I borrowed it from my church's library, I decided to read it for myself. If you like stories about magic, toys coming to life, and more then definitely check this book out for yourself. This book is available at your local library and wherever books are sold.
This was a pretty good read. I had seen the film when I was younger but didn't know it was based on a book so when I borrowed it from my church's library, I decided to read it for myself. If you like stories about magic, toys coming to life, and more then definitely check this book out for yourself. This book is available at your local library and wherever books are sold.
April 7, 2018
Found this book under my sisters bed.. because she's a hoarder and shit.. so I was so freaking happy to read this book! I remember the movie (because I also own that shit too) but for some reason I have NEVER read this book! I really need to sit down and reconsider life changes.. so that I actually read a book before it becomes a movie! MAYBE ONE DAY GUYS!
The Indian in the Cupboard brought back so many childhood memories. I loved this movie. I thought it was the shit. So diving into the book was just amazing to me. I really wanted to see if I would love it more, if not equally.
Okay, kind of cool yet creepy to visualize toys coming to life. Now these toys sound awesome.. not that creepy doll that murders people. Dolls scare the shit out of me.. those moving eyes and shit. BUT these toys and like the toy story movies.. I could totally handle them alive. I'd freak out but then enjoy the hell out of it.
Now before I wrote this review.. I definitely saw people claiming there was racism in this book. I didn't see it that way at all. I loved Little Bull and I enjoyed his broken English. English is hard enough as it is for someone who doesn't speak it as a first language. Just like when you learn spanish, french, german, or whatever language you want to learn.. it's hard as fuck and people are probably judging you for speaking weird or wrong when it comes first nature to them.
Little Bull and the cowboy are just like I remember! I wish I could remember the cowboy's name right now but I honestly can't! Yes, the cowboy does use some racial slurs.. but I assumed it was out of fear. If people don't know about something they usually assume the worst of it.
Besides the little characters, I really enjoyed Omri! This book made me so happy to see all of these characters and read the story line all over again. It definitely makes me want to re-watch the movie just for fun!
Overall, really enjoyed diving back into a childhood favorite. I'm mad that it took me so freaking long to read this book. I will probably reread it over and over again!
The Indian in the Cupboard brought back so many childhood memories. I loved this movie. I thought it was the shit. So diving into the book was just amazing to me. I really wanted to see if I would love it more, if not equally.
Okay, kind of cool yet creepy to visualize toys coming to life. Now these toys sound awesome.. not that creepy doll that murders people. Dolls scare the shit out of me.. those moving eyes and shit. BUT these toys and like the toy story movies.. I could totally handle them alive. I'd freak out but then enjoy the hell out of it.
Now before I wrote this review.. I definitely saw people claiming there was racism in this book. I didn't see it that way at all. I loved Little Bull and I enjoyed his broken English. English is hard enough as it is for someone who doesn't speak it as a first language. Just like when you learn spanish, french, german, or whatever language you want to learn.. it's hard as fuck and people are probably judging you for speaking weird or wrong when it comes first nature to them.
Little Bull and the cowboy are just like I remember! I wish I could remember the cowboy's name right now but I honestly can't! Yes, the cowboy does use some racial slurs.. but I assumed it was out of fear. If people don't know about something they usually assume the worst of it.
Besides the little characters, I really enjoyed Omri! This book made me so happy to see all of these characters and read the story line all over again. It definitely makes me want to re-watch the movie just for fun!
Overall, really enjoyed diving back into a childhood favorite. I'm mad that it took me so freaking long to read this book. I will probably reread it over and over again!
December 10, 2018
Golly, I must have read this book a hundred times. There was just something so magical, so appealing about it! I hope kids today are still reading, I think it's timeless.
Reread 2018: Really interesting to read this aloud as an adult, and aloud to my kids. I was worried that it would be racist, and . . . sort of? But mostly in the way the Little Bear talks. He's new to speaking English, so it's a little short and abrupt, and I think she took it too far, but not to the point where he was a "grunting savage." I was actually impressed with how much is debunked in this, like Little Bear not having seen a teepee before (he's Iroquois) and the fact that "blood brothers" is a white construct to make the Natives "behave." It was interesting to see, and what my kids picked up on as well, was that Little Bear was kind of a spoiled brat, who had a lot of change come over him being in a situation where he wasn't the proud chief's son. Omri changed, and so did his friend Patrick, as they became more empathetic toward these real people who depended on them. So, to sum up: It still works. Also, it's on the 2018-2019 Battle of the Books curriculum.
Reread 2018: Really interesting to read this aloud as an adult, and aloud to my kids. I was worried that it would be racist, and . . . sort of? But mostly in the way the Little Bear talks. He's new to speaking English, so it's a little short and abrupt, and I think she took it too far, but not to the point where he was a "grunting savage." I was actually impressed with how much is debunked in this, like Little Bear not having seen a teepee before (he's Iroquois) and the fact that "blood brothers" is a white construct to make the Natives "behave." It was interesting to see, and what my kids picked up on as well, was that Little Bear was kind of a spoiled brat, who had a lot of change come over him being in a situation where he wasn't the proud chief's son. Omri changed, and so did his friend Patrick, as they became more empathetic toward these real people who depended on them. So, to sum up: It still works. Also, it's on the 2018-2019 Battle of the Books curriculum.
October 5, 2009
What a racist, dull, unimaginative book. Full of stereotypes and negative images, this book should be taught only to teach young people how NOT to write books. I only read this book for a grad class and would never recommend it to anyone. First, the writing is cliched and boring. Secondly, the way Lynne Reid Banks has portrayed the Indian (apparently, Little Bear is Iroquois) is racist and offensive. Little Bear only speaks in grunts and incomplete sentences, and the cowboy Boone wants only to kill the dirty, smelly Injun. Omri, the little boy who is given Little Bear as a present (one he doesn't want--again, this is a terrible book), refuses at first to gather the materials for Little Bear to make a longhouse--which is traditionally the lodging of an Iroquois, not a tepee. This is only one example of how Banks has made her book a metaphor for how ignorant white people have subjugated and marginalized the Indian populations of America by refusing to understand, listen to, or accommodate Indian heritage. No one should willingly pick up this book.
June 27, 2021
I remember reading this a long time ago and really liking it.
October 2, 2017
I am not too sure why I chose to read ‘The Indian in the Cupboard’ by Lynne Reid Banks – other than it came with a pile of other books recently ‘donated’ to me by a colleague. Whilst it is a book I was aware of (perhaps from the film adaptation) it wasn’t one that had got anywhere near my ‘to read’ list. Neither did I realise that ‘The Indian in the Cupboard’ was written by the same author who produced ‘The L-Shaped Room’ – a comparatively ground breaking novel of 1960. ‘The L-Shaped Room’ was also adapted for the cinema and highlighted the stigma of being an unmarried mother at that time (perhaps I should have read that book instead….).
Clearly ‘The Indian in the Cupboard’ is quite a different prospect and written 20 years after ‘The L-Shaped Room’ – this is another story in which toys ‘come to life’, only this time the story considers the reality of such a situation.
Apparently ‘The Indian in the Cupboard’ was somewhat of a success and a minor phenomenon following its publication – whilst at the same time attracting almost instantaneous and significant criticism. On the one hand the novel is a pretty straightforward story of the magic of toys coming to life and the special time that is childhood; on the other though it is at least to some extent a perpetuation of offensive racial stereotyping – the ‘Indian’ (in itself an outdated / incorrect term) ‘Little Bull’ and ‘Indians’ collectively being referred to as ‘primitive, savage, cruel and uncivilized’, seemingly taking great delight in collecting scalps, ‘with fierce black eyes’ and always apparently quick to act with violence, almost throughout. Conversely, it could be argued or rationalised on the basis that ‘The Indian in the Cupboard’ attempts at least in part to undermine racial stereotyping and misconceptions; in that it does at least debunk some myths and provides an explanation of how the taking of scalps (for instance) came about – i.e. a practice propagated/instigated by white ‘settlers’ in exchange for guns, whisky, money. In addition, Little Bull is depicted also as being creative and an accomplished builder.
So on the one hand, what we have is actually quite a good story of a boy, his friend, the magic of toys and childhood – culminating in a somewhat poignant, if a little predictable ending; on the other – an undeniably racist portrayal of a Native American Indian / Iroquois, which is where the book ultimately falls down. On balance – what needs to be considered here is the ‘The Indian in the Cupboard’ is a product of the 1980’s and not perhaps the 1930’s, where such racial stereotyping (whilst not excusable) could have been viewed at least as a product of its time – ultimately a shame.
‘The Indian in the Cupboard’ feels as though it is vainly striving to do the right thing and portray Little Bull as a positive and accomplished character in a ‘fun’ yet acceptable manner – unfortunately for the author, it fails in this endeavour. Little Bull is nothing more than a stereotypical caricature determined entirely by his ethnicity and culture.
Yes, this is a children’s book, but that doesn’t mean it has to be based on stereotypes – the influence of children’s books on their readers cannot and should not ever be underestimated.
Clearly ‘The Indian in the Cupboard’ is quite a different prospect and written 20 years after ‘The L-Shaped Room’ – this is another story in which toys ‘come to life’, only this time the story considers the reality of such a situation.
Apparently ‘The Indian in the Cupboard’ was somewhat of a success and a minor phenomenon following its publication – whilst at the same time attracting almost instantaneous and significant criticism. On the one hand the novel is a pretty straightforward story of the magic of toys coming to life and the special time that is childhood; on the other though it is at least to some extent a perpetuation of offensive racial stereotyping – the ‘Indian’ (in itself an outdated / incorrect term) ‘Little Bull’ and ‘Indians’ collectively being referred to as ‘primitive, savage, cruel and uncivilized’, seemingly taking great delight in collecting scalps, ‘with fierce black eyes’ and always apparently quick to act with violence, almost throughout. Conversely, it could be argued or rationalised on the basis that ‘The Indian in the Cupboard’ attempts at least in part to undermine racial stereotyping and misconceptions; in that it does at least debunk some myths and provides an explanation of how the taking of scalps (for instance) came about – i.e. a practice propagated/instigated by white ‘settlers’ in exchange for guns, whisky, money. In addition, Little Bull is depicted also as being creative and an accomplished builder.
So on the one hand, what we have is actually quite a good story of a boy, his friend, the magic of toys and childhood – culminating in a somewhat poignant, if a little predictable ending; on the other – an undeniably racist portrayal of a Native American Indian / Iroquois, which is where the book ultimately falls down. On balance – what needs to be considered here is the ‘The Indian in the Cupboard’ is a product of the 1980’s and not perhaps the 1930’s, where such racial stereotyping (whilst not excusable) could have been viewed at least as a product of its time – ultimately a shame.
‘The Indian in the Cupboard’ feels as though it is vainly striving to do the right thing and portray Little Bull as a positive and accomplished character in a ‘fun’ yet acceptable manner – unfortunately for the author, it fails in this endeavour. Little Bull is nothing more than a stereotypical caricature determined entirely by his ethnicity and culture.
Yes, this is a children’s book, but that doesn’t mean it has to be based on stereotypes – the influence of children’s books on their readers cannot and should not ever be underestimated.
April 13, 2026
This buddy read was supposed to go quickly, but life had other plans. I know that whenever I see my copy of this book in my bookcase I will always associate it with the many events that happened after Mr. James and I started page one. Broken wings, new beginnings, unexpected endings, leaky roofs and more: life kept us both busy but we have finally managed to get ourselves, Omri and Little Bear through to the end of this first adventure in the series.
Since the book was not published until 1980 I never read it as a youngster, but I had vague memories of the movie, so I was slightly familiar with the basic plot.
The whole idea is captivating when you first think of it. Having plastic toys come to life is something kids were dreaming of even before the book was published. But of course without the cabinet and that mysterious key, we could only use our imaginations.
Omri was thrilled with his new 'toy' at first, but he soon grew up in many ways, learning to think of someone besides himself and beginning to understand the consequences of rash decisions. That is something I wish more people (especially politicians) could learn. Maybe the world wouldn't be in such a mess right now if.....well, never mind, I digress.
I enjoyed the story, except I did worry about Little Bear and Boone being carried around inside the pockets of Omri's and best friend Patrick's jeans. I still don't see how they would have kept from being completely squished or suffocated while in transit, whether they were plastic at the time or real.
Thanks to Mr. James for all the chats we've had about this book, squeezed in among all the chats we've had about life and the world in general since way back on page one. I couldn't have gotten to the end without you, buddy!
Since the book was not published until 1980 I never read it as a youngster, but I had vague memories of the movie, so I was slightly familiar with the basic plot.
The whole idea is captivating when you first think of it. Having plastic toys come to life is something kids were dreaming of even before the book was published. But of course without the cabinet and that mysterious key, we could only use our imaginations.
Omri was thrilled with his new 'toy' at first, but he soon grew up in many ways, learning to think of someone besides himself and beginning to understand the consequences of rash decisions. That is something I wish more people (especially politicians) could learn. Maybe the world wouldn't be in such a mess right now if.....well, never mind, I digress.
I enjoyed the story, except I did worry about Little Bear and Boone being carried around inside the pockets of Omri's and best friend Patrick's jeans. I still don't see how they would have kept from being completely squished or suffocated while in transit, whether they were plastic at the time or real.
Thanks to Mr. James for all the chats we've had about this book, squeezed in among all the chats we've had about life and the world in general since way back on page one. I couldn't have gotten to the end without you, buddy!
November 15, 2023
2 stars. I’ve wanted to read this for a long time, as it’s something of a classic. I was deeply disappointed. The cupboard and key things confuses me. The boys shut toys up in it and take them out alive. They put them back in to undo the “spell,” if you would. It is made plain that the toys become real people who have time travelled into Omri’s time. The medic was a real man in WWI and Little Bear is a real Indian from the French-Indian war. That just makes me uncomfortable, right there, with it’s mix of magic and time-travel. But that wasn’t even the clincher for me.
To start off, the cupboard magic thing required an awful lot of sneaking round and lying. I don’t need to explain why that’s a bad thing.
Second, the adults were all pretty much presented as stupid or mean, except Omri’s mother. The portrayal of the teachers and headmaster, in particular, disgusted me. The whole school chapter was too much. The attitude towards school, learning, and authority was just plain bad.
Third, Omri and his brother had an awful relationship, always fighting and saying nasty things to each other and doing unkind things.
Fourth, Patrick & Omri’s relationship/friendship was bad. Omri treated Patrick like he was stupid and Patrick had no respect for Omri’s feelings.
And fifth, even Little Bear & Boone were nasty—rude, insulting, mean, and revengeful. And when they became friends, they were still unkind!
In fact, no one was nice in this book—except, again, Omri’s mother, who sounds like a dreadfully exhausted woman with a terrible household to run.
On top of all that, the language in this book took me aback. This is a book FOR kids—and ABOUT kids—and the main character is always swearing?? Oh, and also, is it really necessary to talk about how though Omri was a kid, he knew how dangerous it was to have two guys and one girl, and what if babies came???
The one thing I liked about this book, and the only reason I give it 2 stars instead of 1, was how it tackled the way Indians were treated, both in real life and in films. It was well done. Read this review for a much better, in-depth explanation of how great that part was.
Besides that, the writing style was really superb. I mean, it was amazing. I don’t say that lightly, and I would love to read more of this author, if she has any decent works. But this book shocked and horrified me, and turned me off for good on the entire series.
To start off, the cupboard magic thing required an awful lot of sneaking round and lying. I don’t need to explain why that’s a bad thing.
Second, the adults were all pretty much presented as stupid or mean, except Omri’s mother. The portrayal of the teachers and headmaster, in particular, disgusted me. The whole school chapter was too much. The attitude towards school, learning, and authority was just plain bad.
Third, Omri and his brother had an awful relationship, always fighting and saying nasty things to each other and doing unkind things.
Fourth, Patrick & Omri’s relationship/friendship was bad. Omri treated Patrick like he was stupid and Patrick had no respect for Omri’s feelings.
And fifth, even Little Bear & Boone were nasty—rude, insulting, mean, and revengeful. And when they became friends, they were still unkind!
In fact, no one was nice in this book—except, again, Omri’s mother, who sounds like a dreadfully exhausted woman with a terrible household to run.
On top of all that, the language in this book took me aback. This is a book FOR kids—and ABOUT kids—and the main character is always swearing?? Oh, and also, is it really necessary to talk about how though Omri was a kid, he knew how dangerous it was to have two guys and one girl, and what if babies came???
The one thing I liked about this book, and the only reason I give it 2 stars instead of 1, was how it tackled the way Indians were treated, both in real life and in films. It was well done. Read this review for a much better, in-depth explanation of how great that part was.
Besides that, the writing style was really superb. I mean, it was amazing. I don’t say that lightly, and I would love to read more of this author, if she has any decent works. But this book shocked and horrified me, and turned me off for good on the entire series.
April 24, 2026
Fragment of a Lost Mr. James Review: The Dark Lord in the Liquor Cabinet
The three inch Darth Vader stops pacing and reads the words carved into the wood: Debbie was HERE!
"Who is the Debbie...? If she only knew the power of the darkside," Vader says; the sound of his respirator fills the room.
"She's my friend," Ethan replies. "I’m pretty sure she knows... Anyway… move something with the force."
The remainder of this "Mr. James" review was lost during an abrupt course-correct.
Thank you Debbie Zapata for this trip down memory lane. Our reading excursions always have plenty of side quests, off topic discussions, unexpected turns, broken bones, elaborate twists, a twitter-patted hiatus (specific to this one), job interferences, absurd tangents, and boisterous laughter – yes, I can hear you from eleven states away.
Former vs. Latter
This book has an abundance of negative reviews, which narrowly focus on vernacular and Native American stereotypes. Some consider the content “demeaning” to indigenous people.
The Indian in the Cupboard was written in 1980: Native Americans were called Indians. This book does not degrade Native Americans, it empowers them. Little Bear is a brave, intelligent, highly skilled individual, mastering carpentry, hunting, and survival skills. He quickly processes a problem and takes logical action, at least, logic that would apply to an 18th century Indian.
People are entitled to their opinions, but some opinions are poorly thought out. Additionally, Little Bear has no problem bossing giants around while he screams: “Make magic! Now!” Giants who could easily squash him with a hand palm to the table. This is not stupidity. Little Bear will challenge a titian, even if the outcome is death, if it proves he’s an Indian with fortitude.
My fourth grade teacher, Mrs. October, who sported a mole to the left of her bottom lip, read The Indian in the Cupboard to the class. Students rolled their eyes, yawned, uttered distaste, looked out the window, and contracted narcolepsy. Girls would pass notes to girlfriends, who’d pass notes to "acquaintances," who’d roll notes into balls to throw at a boy sitting in the delinquent corner.
These were vain attempts to distract Mrs. O from reading, because once she projected her voice the class went silent: ears were immediately addicted.
She’d read one chapter a day, close the book and put it on her lap. The class pleaded: “A little more.”
Mrs. O smiled, went to her desk, locked the book in her drawer and said, “No.”
On the day she closed the book after the last chapter she said, “That ends Omri and Little Bear’s story.”
We looked down at our desks, dejected.
After a long pause she uttered, “Does it?”
We looked up and she was holding The Return of the Indian.
“To be read,” she said, “next year.”
The three inch Darth Vader stops pacing and reads the words carved into the wood: Debbie was HERE!
"Who is the Debbie...? If she only knew the power of the darkside," Vader says; the sound of his respirator fills the room.
"She's my friend," Ethan replies. "I’m pretty sure she knows... Anyway… move something with the force."
The remainder of this "Mr. James" review was lost during an abrupt course-correct.
Thank you Debbie Zapata for this trip down memory lane. Our reading excursions always have plenty of side quests, off topic discussions, unexpected turns, broken bones, elaborate twists, a twitter-patted hiatus (specific to this one), job interferences, absurd tangents, and boisterous laughter – yes, I can hear you from eleven states away.
Former vs. Latter
This book has an abundance of negative reviews, which narrowly focus on vernacular and Native American stereotypes. Some consider the content “demeaning” to indigenous people.
The Indian in the Cupboard was written in 1980: Native Americans were called Indians. This book does not degrade Native Americans, it empowers them. Little Bear is a brave, intelligent, highly skilled individual, mastering carpentry, hunting, and survival skills. He quickly processes a problem and takes logical action, at least, logic that would apply to an 18th century Indian.
People are entitled to their opinions, but some opinions are poorly thought out. Additionally, Little Bear has no problem bossing giants around while he screams: “Make magic! Now!” Giants who could easily squash him with a hand palm to the table. This is not stupidity. Little Bear will challenge a titian, even if the outcome is death, if it proves he’s an Indian with fortitude.
“One cannot and must not try to erase the past merely because it does not fit the present.”― Golda Meir, My LifeOrigin Story
My fourth grade teacher, Mrs. October, who sported a mole to the left of her bottom lip, read The Indian in the Cupboard to the class. Students rolled their eyes, yawned, uttered distaste, looked out the window, and contracted narcolepsy. Girls would pass notes to girlfriends, who’d pass notes to "acquaintances," who’d roll notes into balls to throw at a boy sitting in the delinquent corner.
These were vain attempts to distract Mrs. O from reading, because once she projected her voice the class went silent: ears were immediately addicted.
She’d read one chapter a day, close the book and put it on her lap. The class pleaded: “A little more.”
Mrs. O smiled, went to her desk, locked the book in her drawer and said, “No.”
On the day she closed the book after the last chapter she said, “That ends Omri and Little Bear’s story.”
We looked down at our desks, dejected.
After a long pause she uttered, “Does it?”
We looked up and she was holding The Return of the Indian.
“To be read,” she said, “next year.”
December 24, 2012
What struck me about it was not that it was racist, or dated (it didn't feel so as much as you'd think,) but that it is a deconstruction of the idea that magical toys would be fun to have, and possibly of imagination as well.
Omri gets a cupboard, a plastic indian, and a key for his birthday. When he puts the indian in the cupboard and locks him up, the indian comes to life. It seems anything locked in there becomes a conduit for people from the past. This leads to problems though, as the Indian is demanding many things, and Omri's friend Patrick wants a toy of his own to become alive.
It's an all right book in terms of writing and craft. While the book does have some elements of racism, it tends to be more unfortunate than premeditated, like The Scarlet Pimpernel. Some may also be our overreacting: the whole "me talks" thing gets pegged as racism a bit too much considering how hard it is for anyone not raised in multiple languages at birth to become as fluent in a second tongue as even a native small child. But there is an edge that might tweak the reader.
My main issue with it was that it has a very odd message. The point of the book seems to be to deconstruct the idea of the magical talking toy: these are real people with real emotions, needs, and desires. Little Bear is self-centered, violent, often in awe, at times magnaminous, but he is very much not a toy, and the point is made later in the book this transformation can easily have dire consequences. Omri does not have fun with him as opposed to having to be forced to care for him and deal with him, and the toys actually wound the boys a couple of times. Omri even starts to resent Little Bear's constant demands for meat, weapons, women, and power.
This is a pretty profound deconstruction of the magical toy idea. Most of these books carry the idea of responsibility. In the movie version, you get this: the only line I really remember is Little Bear saying to Omri "You should not play with magic you do not understand." Magical toy stories usually involve some form of mischief from a child's toys (as an allusion to the mischief the child himself creates) which the child needs to stop as he acts in loco parentis. When the mischief is ended, and the toys behave, things return to normal. The child learns a bit of responsibility while reveling in the toy's actions vicariously.
What's odd in this book is that it goes beyond it, and seems to attack the idea of imbuing the toys with life in the first place. When Omri tries to bring an indian chief to life, the man dies from a heart attack due to his age and shock. There are often realistic concerns about the little toy-men; whether or not they can be hurt, how they feel, and the worries and cares they endure. By focusing not just on their mischief, but their emotional states, doubt is cast on whether or not imbuing them with life is good at all, or even evil.
The book ends on Omri's refusal to play with toys with Patrick. There may be echoes of growing up in this, or in that childish imagination can be dangerous to maintain. That negative aspect troubled me a bit, because the age range of the book is a little young for this. I think that's why it only became "okay" for me, as the ideas are a bit more adult than I suspected.
Omri gets a cupboard, a plastic indian, and a key for his birthday. When he puts the indian in the cupboard and locks him up, the indian comes to life. It seems anything locked in there becomes a conduit for people from the past. This leads to problems though, as the Indian is demanding many things, and Omri's friend Patrick wants a toy of his own to become alive.
It's an all right book in terms of writing and craft. While the book does have some elements of racism, it tends to be more unfortunate than premeditated, like The Scarlet Pimpernel. Some may also be our overreacting: the whole "me talks" thing gets pegged as racism a bit too much considering how hard it is for anyone not raised in multiple languages at birth to become as fluent in a second tongue as even a native small child. But there is an edge that might tweak the reader.
My main issue with it was that it has a very odd message. The point of the book seems to be to deconstruct the idea of the magical talking toy: these are real people with real emotions, needs, and desires. Little Bear is self-centered, violent, often in awe, at times magnaminous, but he is very much not a toy, and the point is made later in the book this transformation can easily have dire consequences. Omri does not have fun with him as opposed to having to be forced to care for him and deal with him, and the toys actually wound the boys a couple of times. Omri even starts to resent Little Bear's constant demands for meat, weapons, women, and power.
This is a pretty profound deconstruction of the magical toy idea. Most of these books carry the idea of responsibility. In the movie version, you get this: the only line I really remember is Little Bear saying to Omri "You should not play with magic you do not understand." Magical toy stories usually involve some form of mischief from a child's toys (as an allusion to the mischief the child himself creates) which the child needs to stop as he acts in loco parentis. When the mischief is ended, and the toys behave, things return to normal. The child learns a bit of responsibility while reveling in the toy's actions vicariously.
What's odd in this book is that it goes beyond it, and seems to attack the idea of imbuing the toys with life in the first place. When Omri tries to bring an indian chief to life, the man dies from a heart attack due to his age and shock. There are often realistic concerns about the little toy-men; whether or not they can be hurt, how they feel, and the worries and cares they endure. By focusing not just on their mischief, but their emotional states, doubt is cast on whether or not imbuing them with life is good at all, or even evil.
The book ends on Omri's refusal to play with toys with Patrick. There may be echoes of growing up in this, or in that childish imagination can be dangerous to maintain. That negative aspect troubled me a bit, because the age range of the book is a little young for this. I think that's why it only became "okay" for me, as the ideas are a bit more adult than I suspected.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2011
When Omri, a young English boy, puts a toy Indian in a medicine cabinet and turns a special key, the Indian magically comes to life. But the Indian is not merely a toy come to life, but a real person with a history who has been transported into Omri’s time, in miniature form. Complications arise when Omri’s thoughtless friend puts his toy cowboy in the cupboard to see if they will fight. The two boys then endanger the small people by taking them to school.
Unlike other fantasies which create an entire magical world, the cupboard is the only magical element in this story. Because of its grounding in the everyday, this fantasy has a particular charm, as readers might imagine stumbling across just this kind of magic in their own world. Omri and his friend are ordinary children, and Omri must struggle with having taken on so much responsibility for other human beings. In the end he realizes it isn’t his place to have such power over their lives, and he uses the cupboard to send them back to their own time.
As a Native American person, I am reflexively suspicious of fiction about Indians, especially in this genre, because it is easy for non-Indians to caricature people whose culture they can’t really identify with. But while Banks’ development of the Indian’s character might be a little thin, it’s no thinner than that of other characters. Banks provides enough history of the Five Civilized Tribes, and their role in the French and Indian Wars to demonstrate Little Bull’s humanity, and it is on this basis that Omri comes to respect him. This is an entertaining, appealing story, in which an immature young man learns to take responsibility and show respect for others’ welfare. Parents and teachers ought to be aware, however, that the book contains some mild profanity and several racial epithets.
There are two abysmal sequels available, but I recommend only the original story.
Unlike other fantasies which create an entire magical world, the cupboard is the only magical element in this story. Because of its grounding in the everyday, this fantasy has a particular charm, as readers might imagine stumbling across just this kind of magic in their own world. Omri and his friend are ordinary children, and Omri must struggle with having taken on so much responsibility for other human beings. In the end he realizes it isn’t his place to have such power over their lives, and he uses the cupboard to send them back to their own time.
As a Native American person, I am reflexively suspicious of fiction about Indians, especially in this genre, because it is easy for non-Indians to caricature people whose culture they can’t really identify with. But while Banks’ development of the Indian’s character might be a little thin, it’s no thinner than that of other characters. Banks provides enough history of the Five Civilized Tribes, and their role in the French and Indian Wars to demonstrate Little Bull’s humanity, and it is on this basis that Omri comes to respect him. This is an entertaining, appealing story, in which an immature young man learns to take responsibility and show respect for others’ welfare. Parents and teachers ought to be aware, however, that the book contains some mild profanity and several racial epithets.
There are two abysmal sequels available, but I recommend only the original story.
November 11, 2025
“Little Bear looked at him steadily and nodded. Omri opened the flap and Indian and horse stepped out into the morning sunlight.”
― Lynne Reid Banks, The Indian in the Cupboard
Reread. I did not love it honestly. I'm way too tired to do a proper review right now. I liked the beginning, got bored in the middle and was skimming by the end.
My feeling is I just would have preferred it as a short story or a novella.
The thing is the magic of the idea wears off for me. I get the premise and I've read many many books on Native culture but maybe that's the problem.
Most of those reads were in childhood. My all-time favorite is "The light in the forest." It seemed to me this was trying to be both a very serious story AND kind of whimsical. Kind of difficult to be both.
That does not mean I didn't like the characters or wholly enjoy the premise. But it got tiresome. Also it doesn't really feel like a children's book. If that makes sense.
The adventure parts didn't do it for me because it isn't the type of genre that I really get into. And I kind of knew how it would end before it ended especially being that it IS a children's book.
I still feel this is one of the best titles for a book ever. Just the title evokes such imagery. And it was well written. It just really isn't my type of book. I think it really would have been if it was a bit shorter.
I think at the end of the day, I'd have preferred "whimsical" over adventure but that's just me.
― Lynne Reid Banks, The Indian in the Cupboard
Reread. I did not love it honestly. I'm way too tired to do a proper review right now. I liked the beginning, got bored in the middle and was skimming by the end.
My feeling is I just would have preferred it as a short story or a novella.
The thing is the magic of the idea wears off for me. I get the premise and I've read many many books on Native culture but maybe that's the problem.
Most of those reads were in childhood. My all-time favorite is "The light in the forest." It seemed to me this was trying to be both a very serious story AND kind of whimsical. Kind of difficult to be both.
That does not mean I didn't like the characters or wholly enjoy the premise. But it got tiresome. Also it doesn't really feel like a children's book. If that makes sense.
The adventure parts didn't do it for me because it isn't the type of genre that I really get into. And I kind of knew how it would end before it ended especially being that it IS a children's book.
I still feel this is one of the best titles for a book ever. Just the title evokes such imagery. And it was well written. It just really isn't my type of book. I think it really would have been if it was a bit shorter.
I think at the end of the day, I'd have preferred "whimsical" over adventure but that's just me.
May 8, 2020
What a fantastic re-read of a childhood classic. Flipping open this book again, the most surprising discovery was that Lynn Reid Banks was a British author! I had no idea, and I don't remember being 10 years old and realizing that, although the English turns of phrase are apparent upon re-read.
I absolutely loved this. It's magical, it's imaginative, it's well-written, and the characters are unforgettable. Banks draws a perfect Little Bear and a perfect Omri, particularly in their dialogue and their relationship with one another; in fact, all of the characters are outstandingly portrayed.
I absolutely loved this. It's magical, it's imaginative, it's well-written, and the characters are unforgettable. Banks draws a perfect Little Bear and a perfect Omri, particularly in their dialogue and their relationship with one another; in fact, all of the characters are outstandingly portrayed.
June 2, 2012
My thought, when reading The Indian in the Cupboard, was that I wish I'd read it as a child to fully enjoy it. I was surprised when I got ready to write this review to see from Goodreads that the book was published in 1980! I would have pegged the story as something written in the '50s or '60s. I realize I've been conditioned by society's sensitivities, view of political correctness, and critical spirit of looking at everything as though it contains hidden hatred; I had to fight my initial internal distaste over the stereotypical depiction of the Indian. However, I had to admit that the cowboy received far worse treatment!
I put aside my critiques and squelched my inner squirming and found much to like about the story. Lynne Reid Banks did an excellent job conveying the worry and angst the young boy felt for for his little toy come to life. I appreciate how the author had the boy evolve from seeing the Indian as a plaything to realizing that, regardless of his size, the Indian was a person with needs, feelings, and a right to live his life.
I put aside my critiques and squelched my inner squirming and found much to like about the story. Lynne Reid Banks did an excellent job conveying the worry and angst the young boy felt for for his little toy come to life. I appreciate how the author had the boy evolve from seeing the Indian as a plaything to realizing that, regardless of his size, the Indian was a person with needs, feelings, and a right to live his life.
August 22, 2012
Hmmm. I am not sure where to put this in terms of "stars." I just reread it. I loved it as a child. I remember learning about Iroquois Indians and Longhouses and being fascinated. I loved the magical adventure when a toy comes to life. For those that do not know, young Omri locks his plastic toy American Indian in the cupboard and the Indian comes to life! His friend does the same to his plastic cowboy, and the result is disastrous.
As an adult, I'm incredibly uncomfortable with the basic errors (false and negative stereotypes) in this book. Looking at it 30 years after it was first published (and after finishing a nonfiction book about the first Americans), I certainly see it as inappropriate and dated. I'm not just trying to be "politically correct" although that is a term that could be applied to me I suppose. It's somewhat disturbing to read the inaccuracies and the inherent racism in the boys comments...and in the author's suggestions from those comments.
All this is somewhat sad for me to say, since the book is well paced, magical, and simply fun from my WASPy perspective in the twenty-first century. It's too bad its not one I can readily recommend today. If I were American Indian, I would not have found it "fun." And that to me is a good reason I shouldn't be encouraging my son to read it.
What do you think?
To put it another way, at what point is racism in semi-classic literature no longer okay? I ask because there were likewise a few racist comments in The Secret Garden where I recently reread, and I've encountered it before in other older classics for children, like Kipling and so forth. But it surprised me how racist this book was, and it's only thirty years old. At any rate, if I do hand it to my son, it will be with lots of discussion about the attitudes and inaccuracies found therein.
Discussion on my blog
As an adult, I'm incredibly uncomfortable with the basic errors (false and negative stereotypes) in this book. Looking at it 30 years after it was first published (and after finishing a nonfiction book about the first Americans), I certainly see it as inappropriate and dated. I'm not just trying to be "politically correct" although that is a term that could be applied to me I suppose. It's somewhat disturbing to read the inaccuracies and the inherent racism in the boys comments...and in the author's suggestions from those comments.
All this is somewhat sad for me to say, since the book is well paced, magical, and simply fun from my WASPy perspective in the twenty-first century. It's too bad its not one I can readily recommend today. If I were American Indian, I would not have found it "fun." And that to me is a good reason I shouldn't be encouraging my son to read it.
What do you think?
To put it another way, at what point is racism in semi-classic literature no longer okay? I ask because there were likewise a few racist comments in The Secret Garden where I recently reread, and I've encountered it before in other older classics for children, like Kipling and so forth. But it surprised me how racist this book was, and it's only thirty years old. At any rate, if I do hand it to my son, it will be with lots of discussion about the attitudes and inaccuracies found therein.
Discussion on my blog
January 3, 2020
This is one of my absolute favorite books of all time. I loved it as a kid and I love it now. I hadn't read it in more than a decade, but I pulled it out to read aloud to my kids, and they loved it too, especially my daughters.
Omri's friend Patrick gives him a little plastic Indian for his birthday. Omri's brother gives him an old cupboard he found in the alley. Omri's mother finds him an old, old key that fits the lock on the cupboard, and he's delighted because now he has a place to put things. Don't we all love places to put things? I know I do.
Anyway, Omri puts his plastic Indian in the cupboard and locks it and goes to sleep. And when he wakes up, he discovers that the Indian has come alive. But is still only a couple inches tall. But totally alive. His name is Little Bear, and he is the most demanding, fierce, bossy tiny person you've ever heard of. But also endearingly brave.
My favorite parts of this book are all about Omri scrambling to provide things Little Bear needs. A tiny campfire, bark for a longhouse, food, and so on. I love miniature things, which is a big part of why books like this and The Borrowers appeal to me. And why I love playing with my kids' Calico Critters with them and keep buying them more for their birthdays. Anyway, when Omri tells Patrick about this magical event, Patrick wants a tiny person too and sticks a plastic cowboy in the cupboard. And the cowboy, Billy "Boohoo" Boone, is my other favorite thing about this story. He's cantankerous and belligerent and softhearted.
I love everything about this book, and I've read three of the sequels too, though I didn't love them as much.
Omri's friend Patrick gives him a little plastic Indian for his birthday. Omri's brother gives him an old cupboard he found in the alley. Omri's mother finds him an old, old key that fits the lock on the cupboard, and he's delighted because now he has a place to put things. Don't we all love places to put things? I know I do.
Anyway, Omri puts his plastic Indian in the cupboard and locks it and goes to sleep. And when he wakes up, he discovers that the Indian has come alive. But is still only a couple inches tall. But totally alive. His name is Little Bear, and he is the most demanding, fierce, bossy tiny person you've ever heard of. But also endearingly brave.
My favorite parts of this book are all about Omri scrambling to provide things Little Bear needs. A tiny campfire, bark for a longhouse, food, and so on. I love miniature things, which is a big part of why books like this and The Borrowers appeal to me. And why I love playing with my kids' Calico Critters with them and keep buying them more for their birthdays. Anyway, when Omri tells Patrick about this magical event, Patrick wants a tiny person too and sticks a plastic cowboy in the cupboard. And the cowboy, Billy "Boohoo" Boone, is my other favorite thing about this story. He's cantankerous and belligerent and softhearted.
I love everything about this book, and I've read three of the sequels too, though I didn't love them as much.
March 5, 2016
A proctoring-during-STAR-testing reread.
Pros: action-packed, good characterization of Omri and Patrick, moves quickly and has pretty good writing. Keeps kids instantly engaged and reading. Even as a critical, discomfited reader I was racing through and waiting to see what would happen next (I didn't remember it from my first read over twenty years ago).
Cons: "problematic" is an understatement when it comes the ridiculous stereotypes *combined* with the whole "he's a real person, this has some basis in fact" things like the longhouse vs. teepee problem. Needless to say, I cringed during all the Little Bear parts.
I guess my policy will be to recommend The Porcupine Year to follow this one whenever I hear of a teacher doing it as a classroom read-aloud!
Pros: action-packed, good characterization of Omri and Patrick, moves quickly and has pretty good writing. Keeps kids instantly engaged and reading. Even as a critical, discomfited reader I was racing through and waiting to see what would happen next (I didn't remember it from my first read over twenty years ago).
Cons: "problematic" is an understatement when it comes the ridiculous stereotypes *combined* with the whole "he's a real person, this has some basis in fact" things like the longhouse vs. teepee problem. Needless to say, I cringed during all the Little Bear parts.
I guess my policy will be to recommend The Porcupine Year to follow this one whenever I hear of a teacher doing it as a classroom read-aloud!
June 7, 2007
Meh. I don't remember this book much. I guess it was okay.
April 16, 2019
Read years ago and then saw the movie. I thought it was excellent, though my brain injury prevents me from remembering much about it. I think I would read it again.
October 3, 2018
Interesting book. Another of the Battle of the Books titles that I'm working my way through. I've never read it before, nor have I seen the movie.
I love the fantastical element of the story, even though some of it feels dated (which makes sense, seeing as how it was written in 1980, almost 40 years ago!). What surprised me was the level of maturity shown by Omri, as he quickly realizes that his "Indian" isn't a living toy, but an actual human being - just very small. And that Little Bear obviously was a real person from another time and place, that somehow his spirit (or something) has inhabited the now-alive Indian toy. It was also interesting to see Omri's friend, Patrick, treat it all as a game at first, then come to the same realizations that Omri has...that Little Bear and the cowboy, Boone, are not toys to be played with but real men.
I was very aware of how stereotypical the portrayals of Little Bear and Boone were, but it also got me to think about how the author handled it. Omri wants to build Little Bear a teepee because "Indians live in teepees". Little Bear quickly rejects that idea, explaining that his tribe does NOT live in those dwellings, that they live in longhouses, trying to dispel the very stereotypes that Omri believes. It doesn't come across that way at first...it's only after I've been thinking about that I realized it. And Boone - he's supposed to be a hard-ridin', fast-talkin' cowboy who refuses to bathe, but he also cries because he's lonely and scared. Not the stereotypical cowboy by any means. Not a perfect way to deal with the stereotypes, but I really do think the author was trying to address them.
Overall, a good book.
I love the fantastical element of the story, even though some of it feels dated (which makes sense, seeing as how it was written in 1980, almost 40 years ago!). What surprised me was the level of maturity shown by Omri, as he quickly realizes that his "Indian" isn't a living toy, but an actual human being - just very small. And that Little Bear obviously was a real person from another time and place, that somehow his spirit (or something) has inhabited the now-alive Indian toy. It was also interesting to see Omri's friend, Patrick, treat it all as a game at first, then come to the same realizations that Omri has...that Little Bear and the cowboy, Boone, are not toys to be played with but real men.
I was very aware of how stereotypical the portrayals of Little Bear and Boone were, but it also got me to think about how the author handled it. Omri wants to build Little Bear a teepee because "Indians live in teepees". Little Bear quickly rejects that idea, explaining that his tribe does NOT live in those dwellings, that they live in longhouses, trying to dispel the very stereotypes that Omri believes. It doesn't come across that way at first...it's only after I've been thinking about that I realized it. And Boone - he's supposed to be a hard-ridin', fast-talkin' cowboy who refuses to bathe, but he also cries because he's lonely and scared. Not the stereotypical cowboy by any means. Not a perfect way to deal with the stereotypes, but I really do think the author was trying to address them.
Overall, a good book.
April 6, 2017
This book was one of my favorites as a kid and I hadn't read it since then, so I decided it was time for another go. And it was just as charming as ever. What's more fun than toys coming to life? I'm convinced this book is where Toy Story got the idea from. Plus Little Bear and Boone make the greatest pair, like Buzz Lightyear and Woody.
August 29, 2019
I'm always a little nervous to go back and re-read books that I used to love. I'm one of 5 kids, so individual storytime did not happen in my house. Instead, mom gathered all 5 of us around, decked out in our jammies with wet hair from baths, and read to us all from the same book, young and old alike, before we went to bed. This series was a popular go-to for those storytimes--we read them over and over again. I'm not sure if I love this book so much because it's simply divine (if a bit overwrought in a few places), or because it reminds me of a time when my family was at its best. Either way, I'm relieved to find it still endearing and lovable.
Popsugar Reading Challenge 2019: A book that makes you nostalgic
Popsugar Reading Challenge 2019: A book that makes you nostalgic
March 19, 2025
What a great story. A cupboard and a key. Omri is having a birthday. He gets a skateboard from his parents and an old metal cupboard from one of his brothers. His brother tells omri he found the cupboard in an alley out back. Omri says, "Did it come with a key? Now omris mom tells him she has a box of keys . And guess what? One of the keys works. Here's the story. Very exciting. I have never read any books by this author. She's very talented.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2020
I probably would have enjoyed this more if I'd read it as a kid. I'm going to be giving it to my little brother to read next though!
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