{"id":10561,"date":"2024-10-29T05:00:11","date_gmt":"2024-10-29T09:00:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.readbrightly.com\/?p=10561"},"modified":"2025-03-10T16:15:39","modified_gmt":"2025-03-10T20:15:39","slug":"native-american-history-experience-kids-teens","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.readbrightly.com\/native-american-history-experience-kids-teens\/","title":{"rendered":"36 Children\u2019s & YA Books That Celebrate Native American Heritage"},"content":{"rendered":"

I traveled in and out of the U.S. often during my childhood, but was in Silver Spring, Maryland, at four years old, in time to celebrate a \u201cFirst Thanksgiving\u201d with my kindergarten class. I remember the boys building a fort with those cardboard brackish-looking giant blocks, while us girls, as \u201cPilgrim women,\u201d wore dresses and tore hunks of baked chicken into smaller bits for the big meal. I don\u2019t know which is sadder: the fact that I, along with my (not that many) Black classmates were playing the roles of white colonizers in this theatre of the absurd, or that I don\u2019t remember who played the Indians. I don\u2019t even remember if anyone did; they are erased from my memory, as Native and Indigenous people so often are erased<\/a> from the narrative of the American past, present, and future.<\/p>\n

On Indian Country Today<\/a>, Christina Rose writes, \u201cWithout guidance, too many teachers may celebrate Native American Heritage Month in the only ways they know how: paper bag vests and feathers, classroom pow wows, and discussions on who Indians were.\u201d Many of us who celebrate the Thanksgiving<\/a> holiday would be hard pressed to know who the Wampanoag people were and are<\/a>, what the Haudenosaunee, or Iroquois, Thanksgiving Address<\/a> is, or that government policy forced \u201crelocation\u201d of Native Americans away from their productive farmland and the crops, like corn and pumpkin, that remain symbols of the Thanksgiving holiday today.<\/p>\n

November, designated as Native American Heritage Month, offers an opportunity for all of us to become more educated about that history and current state of affairs. Like all stories, Native stories are not a single story of defeat, bows and arrows, or of \u201cthe past.\u201d They include stories of joy, of cultural pride, of meeting everyday challenges, fun, and celebrations of family and friendship.<\/p>\n

yes no Picture Books 9781580897945 First Laugh \u2013 Welcome, Baby!<\/i> by Rose Ann Tahe, Nancy Bo Flood, and Jonathan Nelson <\/p>\n

A lovely celebration and affirmation of Navajo tradition, this story centers on a family eagerly awaiting a baby\u2019s first laugh, which initiates the family\u2019s formal welcome of the baby into their clans. The scene moves from the baby\u2019s home in the city to its grandparents\u2019 home in the country, and the whole family is thrilled when, at long last, they hear the baby laugh for the first time.
\n(Ages 2 \u2013 5)<\/i><\/p>\n

9781774883570 An Anishinaabe Christmas<\/i> by Wab Kinew, illustrated by Erin Hill <\/p>\n

This beautiful book from beloved Indigenous author Wab Kinew celebrates the holiday season through an Anishinaabe lense. Baby and his mother are going to the Rez for Christmas. Along the way Baby learns the legends, vocabulary, and traditions that have been in his family for generations.
\n(Ages 3 \u2013 7)<\/i><\/p>\n

9781774881125 M\u00e9tis Like Me<\/i> by Tasha Hilderman, illustrated by Risa Hugo <\/p>\n

Young readers interested in Indigenous cultures will want to read this upbeat picture book featuring M\u00e9tis crafts, food, dances, and songs. When one child feels like they don\u2019t fit in, they discover the joy of learning about their heritage. This beautiful book celebrates M\u00e9tis culture while encouraging all readers to embrace their roots.
\n(Ages 3 \u2013 7)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780679819424 Rainbow Crow<\/i> by Nancy Van Laan, illustrated by Beatriz Vidal <\/p>\n

Stunning illustrations and a solid moral message make this Lenape legend a feast for the eyes and ears. When the crow gave fire to its forest friends, the once-beautiful bird lost its lovely singing voice and colorful feathers as a result. This moving story teaches readers that sometimes you must sacrifice to help others.
\n(Ages 3 \u2013 7)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593577813 Winter’s Gifts<\/i> by Kaitlin B. Curtice, illustrated by Gloria F\u00e9lix <\/p>\n

Winter’s Gifts<\/i> tells the story of Dani, a young Potawatomi girl, and her family who embrace the slow pace of winter. Despite her schoolmates’ skepticism about the Earth’s generosity, Dani, with the support of her family and Creator, bravely educates her friends about winter’s blessings: rest, reflection, and appreciation.
\n(Ages 3 \u2013 7)<\/i><\/p>\n

9781623542900 Keepunumuk<\/i> by Danielle Greendeer, Anthony Perry, and Alexis Bunten, illustrated by Garry Meeches Sr. <\/p>\n

Keepunumuk<\/i> tells the story of the first Thanksgiving from the Wampanoag Nation\u2019s point of view. Ships bring newcomers who don\u2019t know the land\u2019s language. Wee\u00e2chumun (corn) visits the First Peoples in a series of dreams, asking them to help the newcomers, feed them, and teach them how to survive. It\u2019s a beautiful and much-needed holiday story that celebrates the culture and generosity of the Wampanoag Nation.
\n(Ages 3 \u2013 7)<\/i><\/p>\n

9781580897723 We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga<\/i> by Traci Sorell, illustrated by Fran\u00e9 Lessac <\/p>\n

This picture book introduces readers to otsaliheliga<\/i>, the word that members of the Cherokee Nation say to express gratitude. The expression is used to celebrate the small joys of family life and the beauty of the natural world throughout the year, as well to show appreciation of loved ones.
\n(Ages 3 \u2013 7)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593461853 Loaf the Cat Goes To The Powwow<\/i> by Nicholas DeShaw, illustrated by Tara Audibert <\/p>\n

Loaf the cat, who adores playing with her boy, embarks on an adventure to find him when he vanishes, eventually discovering him at a lively powwow. She joyfully watches him dance, creating a heartwarming moment he’ll always cherish.
\n(Ages 3 \u2013 7)<\/i><\/p>\n

9781984816030 Being Home<\/i> by Traci Sorrell, illustrated by Michaela Goade <\/p>\n

A Native American girl and her family are moving, and she is excited and happy. They are moving back to their ancestral land. As they make the long drive, the girl dreams about the life, family, and fun that waits for her. This joyful book celebrates the connection that people often feel toward the places their ancestors called home.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593484845 Remember<\/i> by Joy Harjo, illustrated by Michaela Goade <\/p>\n

Two award-winning creators combine their talents in this beautiful picture book. The gentle poem and stunning artwork encourage readers of all ages to remember what makes them unique. It celebrates heritage, family, and nature and is the perfect addition to every home library.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780525645009 The Water Lady<\/i> by Alice B. McGinty, illustrated by Shonto Begay <\/p>\n

Access to clean, running water is something that most people in our country take for granted. But Cody\u2019s family relies on the services of an elderly woman to get water. This is a heartfelt and eye-opening story about a woman who gives back to her community in a necessary and meaningful way.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593093894 Finding My Dance<\/i> by Ria Thundercloud, illustrated by Kalila J. Fuller <\/p>\n

Dance, Indigenous culture, and a personal journey make this stunning picture book memoir a must-read. Ria Thundercloud started dancing as a child and learned many dance forms, but she always returned to her roots. Now, she makes a living as a professional dancer. Beautiful illustrations, the warm narrative, and Ria\u2019s reasons for dancing will uplift and inspire young readers.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780735230606 At the Mountain’s Base <\/i> by Traci Sorell, illustrated by Weshoyot Alvitre <\/p>\n

This lyrical picture book illustrates the everyday lives and traditions of a Cherokee family as they wait for their loved one, a pilot, to return home from war. A celebration of family and tradition as well as Native American service members, it\u2019s an excellent addition to home and school libraries.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593530061 Kapaemahu<\/i> by Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu, Dean Hamer, and Joe Wilson, illustrated by Daniel Sousa <\/p>\n

Anyone who has visited Hawaii will love this Indigenous legend from the islands. Four Mahu (two-spirit people) from Tahiti travel to Waikiki to teach the locals about medicine and healing. The islanders build a monument in their memory that visitors can still see on Waikiki Beach. The text appears in English and the Niihau form of Hawaiian, making it an excellent book for anyone interested in the islands\u2019 history.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9781580899482 Powwow Day<\/i> by Traci Sorell, illustrated by Madelyn Goodnight <\/p>\n

Head to the powwow for a celebration of culture, community, and friendship with this gorgeous, modern picture book. River is recovering from an illness and doesn\u2019t feel well enough to dance at the powwow. Thankfully, she has a wonderful friend who suggests the perfect solution.
\n(Ages 4 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9781623543969 Kindred Spirits: Shilombish Ittibachvffa<\/i> by Leslie Stall Widener, illustrated by Johnson Yazzie <\/p>\n

This nonfiction picture book tells the heartwarming true story of how groups of people living on separate continents supported each other. Even though they had never met each other, the Choctaw Nation, the Irish, the Navajo Nation, and the Hopi tribe showed each other compassion and generosity over the centuries. This is a beautiful story of how people can come together in their times of need.
\n(Ages 5 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780142300183 Tallchief: America’s Prima Ballerina<\/i> by Maria Tallchief with Rosemary Wells, illustrated by Gary Kelley <\/p>\n

This inspiring story of Maria Tallchief, who grew up on an Osage Indian reservation and went on to become a world-renowned prima ballerina, will appeal to any young reader with a passion (or two).
\n(Ages 5 \u2013 8)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780735262928 Go Show the World<\/i> by Wab Kinew, illustrated by Joe Morse <\/p>\n

Go Show the World<\/i> is a tribute to historic and modern-day Indigenous heroes, including Tecumseh and Sacagawea. With lyrical text, Wab Kinew’s book introduces readers to both popular and lesser-known Indigenous people in the U.S. and Canada. His message rings true throughout: We are people who matter.
\n(Ages 5 \u2013 9)<\/i> <\/p>\n

9780593406472 Contenders <\/i> by Traci Sorell <\/p>\n

Charles Bender and John Meyers grew up on different reservations and played professional baseball for different teams. In 1911, they became the first two Native Americans to play against each other in the World Series. This picture book shows readers how they overcame roadblocks, misunderstandings, and prejudices to reach their dreams.
\n(Ages 6 \u2013 9)<\/i> <\/p>\n

yes no Chapter Books & Middle Grade 9780593115817 She Persisted: Maria Tallchief<\/i> by Christine Day and Chelsea Clinton, illustrated by Alexandra Boiger and Gillian Flint <\/p>\n

If you\u2019ve read Maria Tallchief\u2019s autobiographical picture book, you\u2019ll want to pick up this chapter book that dives deeper into her life. From her childhood to the stage, readers will learn about Maria\u2019s determination, hard work, and courage that helped her become America\u2019s first prima ballerina.
\n(Ages 6 \u2013 9)<\/i> <\/p>\n

9780593403037 She Persisted: Wilma Mankiller<\/i> by Traci Sorell and Chelsea Clinton, illustrated by Alexandra Boiger and Gillian Flint <\/p>\n

Young readers will love this chapter book biography of Wilma Mankiller, the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. Wilma\u2019s ancestors walked the Trail of Tears, and she witnessed many injustices against her people. Unsurprisingly, she became passionate about preserving the heritage of the First Nations and fighting for their rights.
\n(Ages 6 \u2013 9)<\/i> <\/p>\n

9780593620700 She Persisted: Deb Haaland<\/i> by Laurel Goodluck and Chelsea Clinton, illustrated by Alexandra Boiger and Gillian Flint <\/p>\n

Deb Haaland, an enrolled Pueblo Laguna member, was one of the first two Native American women elected to Congress, representing New Mexico’s 1st District. In 2021, she made history by becoming the first Native American cabinet secretary as President Biden’s Secretary of the Interior. This chapter book biography tells the story of her amazing life.
\n(Ages 6 \u2013 9)<\/i> <\/p>\n

9781623174866 The Whale Child<\/i> by Keith Egawa and Chenoa Egawa, supplement by Jessica Hernandez <\/p>\n

A look at the changing environment written by two Indigenous authors, The Whale Child<\/i> tells the story of Shiny, a whale child who is turned into a boy in order to go to land and alert humans about the harm facing the oceans. On land, Shiny meets Alex, a Coast Salish girl who learns that the living spirit of water exists everywhere. With Shiny’s help, Alex promises to teach future generations about the importance of protecting Mother Earth. This illustrated chapter book is perfect for early middle grade readers.
\n(Ages 7 \u2013 10)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780823456109 The Star That Always Stays<\/i> by Anna Rose Johnson <\/p>\n

Norvia is proud to be Ojibwe, but when her mother remarries, she’s forced to keep her heritage a secret from her new family. Both humorous and heartbreaking, this beautiful coming-of-age story inspired by the author’s own family history thoughtfully addresses assimilation, racism, blended families, and growing up. <\/p>\n

9780593522035 Lei and the Fire Goddess <\/i> by Malia Maunakea <\/p>\n

Hawaiian folklore, an angry goddess, and a kidnapped best friend combine into an action-packed adventure novel that celebrates Native Hawaiian heritage. With her friend in danger and a curse running rampant, Anna will do anything to set things right. However, the fire goddess Pele makes Anna\u2019s quest more difficult by planting monsters, magic, and mayhem in her path.
\n(Ages 8 \u2013 12)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593624814 Buffalo Dreamer<\/i> by Violet Duncan <\/p>\n

Summer loves spending time with her family in Alberta, Canada. But when she starts having unsettling dreams about the residential schools that her grandfather attended, she learns the disturbing truth about her family\u2019s past in the province. Later, she participates in a town rally and shares her hope for a better future. This heart-wrenching historical novel is based on the author\u2019s family history.
\n(Ages 10+)<\/i><\/p>\n

9781588346193 Do All Indians Live in Tipis? Second Edition<\/i> by NMAI <\/p>\n

In this illustrated guide by experts from the Smithsonian\u2019s National Museum of the American Indian, nearly 100 common misconceptions about Native American customs, culture, and history are debunked. Covering topics from totem poles to Tonto and including questions like the authenticity of the Manhattan sale for beads and trinkets and the prevalence of tipis, readers will uncover the truth about Indigenous peoples of North America from Native authors themselves.
\n(Ages 10+)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593480434 Colonization and the Wampanoag Story<\/i> by Linda Coombs <\/p>\n

Every story has two sides, and most people have only heard Christopher Columbus\u2019s version of events. Linda Coombs, an author and historian from the Wampanoag Tribe of Aquinnah, delivers the other half of the story with this captivating nonfiction book. Readers will learn about America\u2019s colonization from the Wampanoag point of view and how their resilience helped them survive the turmoil the European explorers brought.
\n(Ages 10+)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593386088 Indigenous America<\/i> by Liam McDonald, introduction by Doug Kiel, created by Jennifer Sabin <\/p>\n

This comprehensive and easy-to-read nonfiction book teaches young readers the Indigenous history of America. It covers First Nations history from the time of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Confederacy to European explorers\u2019 arrival and the resulting wars, disease, and mass murders. It also discusses topics such as Indigenous legends, stories, genocide, and advocacy in modern times.
\n(Ages 10+)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780735266124 The Misewa Saga<\/i> Series by David A. Robertson <\/p>\n

Readers looking for a Narnia-like adventure based on Indigenous legends will love this action-packed series from a member of the Norway House Cree Nation in Canada. It\u2019s about two Native American children in foster care who bond over their shared heritage. They find a portal to another dimension and get swept up in an unforgettable journey of courage and survival.
\n(Ages 10+)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593377376 Killers of the Flower Moon: Adapted for Young Readers<\/i> by David Grann <\/p>\n

True crime and Indigenous history intersect in this young reader\u2019s adaptation of the adult book by the same name. In 1920s Oklahoma, the Osage Nation thrived and became the wealthiest people per capita worldwide. But when the Osage started getting murdered in shocking numbers, the FBI stepped in to investigate. The Osage and FBI pieced together who was behind the killings and exposed a bone-chilling conspiracy.
\n(Ages 10+)<\/i><\/p>\n

yes no Young Adult 9780593203477 The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee (Young Readers Adaptation)<\/i> by David Treuer, adapted by Sheila Keenan <\/p>\n

Adapted for younger readers from the adult title, this essential nonfiction book looks at Native American culture today. It highlights current efforts to preserve Indigenous culture, language, and traditions and offers encouragement through the lived experiences of First Peoples.
\n(Young Adult)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780593094136 Imaginary Borders<\/i> by Xiuhtezcatl Martinez, illustrated by Ashley Lukashevsky <\/p>\n

Hip hop artist and environmental activist Xiuhtezcatl Martinez shares his passion for climate change in this short but powerful book. It\u2019s an excellent book to jump-start your teen\u2019s education about this critical issue.
\n(Young Adult)<\/i><\/p>\n

9780735269026 Walking in Two Worlds<\/i> by Wab Kinew <\/p>\n

Modern Native American culture collides with virtual gaming in this speculative fiction series by the bestselling and award-winning author of The Reason You Walk<\/i><\/a>. Bugz and Feng become friends in real life and the virtual world of the game they both play. But as the virtual and real worlds spill into each other, Bugz and Feng must navigate the challenges of friendship, family, and community.
\n(Young Adult)<\/i><\/p>\n

9781536213133 Hearts Unbroken<\/i> by Cynthia Leitich Smith <\/p>\n

New York Times<\/i> bestselling and award-winning author Cynthia Leitich Smith delivers a heartfelt portrayal of the challenges faced by Indigenous teens today. Louise Wolfe must decide how much of her heart to give away to a boy while her town erupts into anger over an inclusive production of The Wizard of Oz<\/i>. And don\u2019t miss the follow-up novel Harvest House<\/i><\/a>, publishing in April 2023!
\n(Young Adult)<\/i><\/p>\n

9781984854216 American Indian Stories<\/i> by Zitk\u00e1la-\u0160\u00e1 <\/p>\n

Born in 1876 and raised on the Yankton Sioux Reservation, Zitk\u00e1la-\u0160\u00e1 was eight years old when Quaker missionaries appeared, offering children a free education if only they were to leave their parents \u2014 and, implicitly, abandon their cultural roots. Expecting adventure, Zitk\u00e1la-\u0160\u00e1 begged her mother to go, and though she was a model student, she refused to accept the estrangement, going on to become an activist and founded the National Council of American Indians. This collection of her memories and work is ideal for teen readers, parents, and educators.
\n(Young Adult)<\/i><\/p>\n

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