I am guilty of being a finicky reader. Many books on the Cherokee Language I will eagerly begin to read, then set the book down, feeling defeated by the language complexity. Happily this was not the case for Journeying Into Cherokee: Help and Encouragement for Learning the Cherokee Language. Ed and Meli skillfully wove both of their perspectives together into an enjoyable experience. This is truly a remarkable accomplishment and one, that as a Cherokee lifelong learner; I treasure. My hope is that every reader and learner of Cherokee will treasure their gift of knowledge narrated inside this little book. I truly look forward to more from Ed and Meli! — Rosemary Cushman Hubert, MD
Reading Journeying Into Cherokee gave me encouragement and boosted my confidence that I can still learn our language and reclaim knowledge that earlier generations in my family lived by daily. — Traci McClellan-Sorell, enrolled Cherokee Nation citizen and author of We Are Grateful Otsaliheliga
Journeying into Cherokee: Help and Encouragement for Learning the Cherokee Language offers stories, conversations, and insights into learning the Cherokee language. Ed Fields, a speaker and teacher of Cherokee for more than two decades, and Mary Rae, his student who became a fluent speaker, offer their support, guidance, and encouragement to Cherokee language learners. This engaging book speaks good words to light the way for anyone learning Cherokee. I’m glad this is on my bookshelf and return to it often. —Ellen Cushman, author of The Cherokee Syllabary: Writing the People’s Perseverance
This book is a great, easy to understand help and resource. It helps put your fears at ease and give encouragement to keep going, especially when you feel you’re not doing well. Really it’s not just a book, it’s more like having two friends gently guide, assist, and encourage you through this wonderful journey into the Cherokee language. —Alex Green, Cherokee language student
This book is a must read no matter where you are on your Cherokee language journey. ᏗᏕᏲᎲᏍᎩ Ed is the best kind of teacher. He guides, tells stories, cheers you on, and makes jokes. Ed and Mary Rae wrote more than a primer for learning, it’s a much-needed conversation between a speaker and learner invested in the life of the Cherokee language. —Andrea L. Rogers, author of Mary and The Trail of Tears
Journeying Into Cherokee is a must have if you are a Cherokee Language learner. Full of so much helpful advice and encouragement! You will no longer feel alone on this journey! -Wadulisi (Debbie McSweeney), Cherokee language student