This third volume in Michael W. Cook’s Passamaquoddy Legends Puzzle Book series centers on the clever and endlessly curious Master Rabbit, or Mahtigwess, as he stumbles through trials and wild encounters across the stories of the Passamaquoddy people. Through a mix of puzzles, crosswords, mazes, cryptograms, coloring pages, and storytelling, Cook blends ancient folklore with interactive learning. The tales focus on themes of wit, magic, perseverance, and cultural symbolism, all rooted in a deep respect for the oral traditions of the Wabanaki tribes. It’s part storybook, part activity book, and part cultural preservation project.

I didn’t expect to enjoy this as much as I did. At first glance, you might think this is strictly for kids, but there’s a real richness here. The puzzles are woven into the stories in a way that makes you engage differently, almost like you’re unlocking layers of tradition and meaning as you go. I loved that it didn’t talk down to its readers. It trusts you to care about the culture and be curious enough to want to solve the riddles. Master Rabbit is such a charming trickster. He’s funny, often overconfident, and just the right amount of ridiculous. He’s easy to root for, even when he’s obviously setting himself up for disaster. The artwork ranging from cut to artistic, the old Micmac and Passamaquoddy words sprinkled throughout, and the playful layout all made the experience feel personal, even a little nostalgic.

Some puzzles were tricky. It can feel more like a patchwork than a flowing narrative, especially if you’re trying to read it cover-to-cover. That said, I don’t think it was meant to be read straight through. It’s more of a dip-in-and-play kind of book. And in that context, it really works. The balance of cultural education and fun is handled with care. You can tell Cook genuinely cares about honoring the Passamaquoddy heritage, and that heart shines through in the smallest details.

If you’re a teacher, a parent, or just someone curious about Indigenous stories told in a fun and interactive way, this book is a great pick. It’s especially good for readers who enjoy learning through doing, or who have a soft spot for folklore and myth. I’d say it’s perfect for kids around 8–13, but adults with an open mind and a playful streak will get a lot out of it too.

Pages: 106 | ASIN : B0FCFGGKDM