Freuchen's novel gives a fascinating introduction to a different culture. Numerous illustrations by Ingrid Vang Nyman accompany the text and help the reader visualize the story. The great differences between the Eskimo culture and U.S. culture provide an example of the concept of cultural relativism and show readers the bias one holds towards one's own culture. Freuchen's explanations of how to kill a polar bear and how to light a lamp with moss and blubber relate valuable information about Eskimo life. Learning that children consider eating small strips of skin from a seal's ribs a special treat or that a delicious way to prepare dinner is to have the outside of the meat hot, the middle raw, and the inside frozen brings home cultural differences for the young reader. Eskimo Boy helps readers develop a sense of cultural sensitivity.

Killing and violent death occur throughout...