Falling into Congo: Fighting Off the Poachers

In Falling Into Congo Stan Bindell takes readers on a transformative journey with Sky, a young Native American seeking a place to belong. This compelling narrative explores the profound connections between indigenous people and the earth, a deeply relevant theme today. During his adventure in Africa Sky discovers communities preserving sacred cultural traditions amid modernization, inspiring him with their dedication to living in harmony with nature. The novel highlights the importance of cultural heritage through the teachings of the Dineh (Navajo) and other First Nations, emphasizing community, respect for elders, and the sacredness of the earth. Warriors Sky and Kyle embody their cultural values and strive to protect their traditions. Bindell's storytelling underscores the universal experience of connection with the earth, transcending cultural boundaries. Falling Into Congo encourages reflection on environmental challenges like species endangerment, showcasing the vital role of indigenous knowledge. More than a story, it is a call to action, urging the reader to draw inspiration from tribal teachings and have a meaningful effect on the world. The book reminds us of our interconnectedness and shared responsibility for safeguarding the planet for future generations. Let Falling Into Congo help you cherish the sacred, live in balance, and honor the wisdom of the past.

Review :
ForewordYa'at'eeh shik'ee doo shidine'e! ('Hello to all my relations!') The Navajo people and tribal peoples of the world have worked hard to retain their cultural bonds with the land for thousands of years. These trees of knowledge teach us all the means to live in concert and balance within the natural systems that all living beings call home. These systems - our traditions - ensure that children are taught the value of the drum song, the heartbeat of the earth, the importance of elders and communal responsibility; to not take more than you need, to keep many things sacred without question or doubt, to ensure that animals are respected, even (and especially) when they become food; and to ensure that all offspring, neighbors and community know these teachings well, so that all will succeed in the endeavor of life. The Navajos have a saying that embodies the idea of living in balance with all living things: 'Hozho.' I have learned through the years that this heartfelt sacredness is inherently human and shared by all. Every one of us at one time sang an earthsong, drummed and felt the soul and spirit and pulse of Mother Earth, and knew all the natural laws and teachings that ensure our common path. This book is written to inspire and reignite the fire that burns within all of each of us to do what is right, and learn from the teachings of tribal peoples who continue to hold steadfast to time-honored systems of knowledge, including those of the Navajo of the American desert Southwest. In my friend Stan Bindell's wonderful book Falling into Congo, Sky, a young native American man, finds himself lost, as so many of us do at some point in our lives. At once we are captivated through the eyes of Sky, who is inspired to find himself once again through the shared experience of other peoples - in this case, those who live in the heart of Africa - who fight every day to save what is sacred. One of the other key figures is Kyle, who is Navajo and lives by Navajo values. These include Navajo songs, prayers and dances, as well as listening to the tribal elders, the language and teachings about community and harmonious life, the care for plants and animals, and most importantly, ensuring that kids know the tools for a successful balanced life - all of which continues still, under the relentless onslaught of modernization and constant pressure to acculturate. Warriors such as Sky and Kyle continue to work to protect what is sacred. My hope for you is that as you read this book, you also listen to that inner voice and think about what is important. Ahxehee! ('Thank you!')Tony Skrelunas