Native American Animal Stories by Joseph Bruchac III

Author:Joseph Bruchac III
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Fulcrum Publishing
Published: 1992-09-15T00:00:00+00:00

Why Possum Has a Naked Tail

Possum was flattered. “It is true,” he said, “one who has such a beautiful and perfect tail as I have should be the first one to speak in council.” He held up his tail, combing it with his long fingers. “Is not my tail the most wonderful thing you have ever seen?”

Rabbit looked close at Possum’s tail.

“My friend,” Rabbit said, “it seems to me as if your tail is just a little dirty. I think that it would look even better if you would allow me to clean it. I have some special medicine that will make your tail look just the way it should look.”

Possum looked close at his tail. It did seem as if it was a little bit dirty. “Yes,” Possum said, “that is a good idea. I want all of the animals to admire my tail when I speak in council.”

Then Rabbit mixed up his medicine. It was very strong, so strong that it loosened all of the hair on Possum’s tail. But as he put the medicine on Possum’s tail he wrapped the tail in the skin which had been shed by a snake.

“This snakeskin will make sure the medicine works well,” Rabbit said. “Do not take it off until you speak in council tomorrow. Then the people will all see your tail just as it should be seen.”

Possum did as Rabbit said. He kept the snakeskin wrapped tightly around his tail all through the night.

Possum did as Rabbit said.

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