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To each a different gift is given, and to each a different dream does come. A wise man tells the boy. Be happy with your gift, and be at peace with your dream.

The story tells of three boys who climb a mountain on their vision quest. One climbs part-way up and dreams of a bear. The second climbs further up and dreams of a hawk. And the third boy climbs to the top and dreams of an acorn. As they grow, the first two boys' gifts become very apparent; one is a great hunter and the other is a fine scout. It is only later that the boy who dreams of an acorn understands what the wise one has told him about his gift. As he grows in wisdom and maturity, like the acorn that grows into an oak tree, his gift becomes clear. He realizes the power of things small and quiet and it is he that people go to for compassion and strength.

This children's book is an original work of fiction based upon a Native American rite known as the spirit quest. The story was written in cooperation with Selene Rilatos Lynch, historian of her Siletz confederated tribe, and many Chinook words have been included in the glossary. The illustrations illuminate the story of what lies inside each of us. This book is recommended for Unitarian Universalist families, children's religious education programs, and intergenerational worship services.