Michael Naranjo is a Pueblo Indian who, after much searching, has become a talented sculptor. The son of a Baptist minister, Michael grew up observing nature and exploring the countryside around Santa Clara (New Mexico), his birthplace. When he was nine, his family moved to Taos, where he watched the ceremonies of the Taos Pueblos with fascination. On completing high school, he spent some restless years looking for a vocation, and was drafted into the army in 1967. Michael had been in Vietnam only two months when a grenade explosion left him sightless. Upon return to the U.S. and, through persistence and determination, he began to live an independent life. His feelings found an outlet in the wax figures he created, and soon he began to have them cast in bronze. An exhibit of his work was shown in Washington, D.C., and his sculpture "Eagle Dancer" was purchased by the president of the U.S. Michael has continued to receive awards and honors for his artwork, and today he is a well-known artist, a person whose determination to be independent despite his handicap has brought him success and personal fulfillment. This biography, intended for juveniles in grades five and up, is one of a series developed to help readers understand the great heritage of America's original citizens. (Reviewer/AH)