Pershlie Perci Ami
Pershlie “Perci” Ami is a member of the Hopi/Tewa Tribe, from the Village of Walpi, AZ. For more than ten years, Perci has served as a strong advocate for suicide prevention, substance abuse, and addiction, devoting her time to the Native American Center for Excellence Substance Abuse Prevention Program as a facilitator for the Gathering of Native Americans (GONA). Perci received the Women’s Federation for World Peace USA, Her Story Award, and the Marcus Harrison Jr. Leadership Award for her exemplary work in healing, serving and advocating for Native American communities. Perci utilizes her values of culture, traditions, and family in her peace work, helping Indigenous people connect and focus on healing the mind, body, and spirit. In addition, Perci volunteers at a local ministry in Phoenix.
Teen Books (1)
Synopsis:
“Because you believed me, I began to believe myself. Because of you, I am here.”
[Trigger Warning] Please note this book addresses sensitive topics including suicide, substance abuse, and family violence. While these emotionally challenging realities are held thoughtfully, and with love, this story may be triggering.
Jessica has contemplated suicide for a while now. Grappling with the reverberating grief of losing her beloved grandmother and the trauma of a broken home, young Jessica is reaching a place so far from herself, her community, and the traditional Indigenous teachings she once lived by, it is frightening.
When it all becomes too much, Jessica attempts to take the final step over the ledge. What follows is a journey through the sacred spaces within memory, song, and the spirit world, guided by two playful tricksters—eagles, who happen to have lifetimes of wisdom to share.
With a love of riddles and soaring beyond the edges of possibility, they turn and twist Jessica’s reality until she can finally ground herself in what she has known all along, and allow the love, strength and voice of her beloved grandmother to once again be remembered and heard. The trajectory of Jessica’s life will be changed forever.
From Hopi Elder, Pershlie "Perci" Ami, and Street Outreach Worker, Anthony Goulet, comes a creative, sensitive, and thoughtful approach to the topic of suicide. Combined, they have over forty years of experience in youth development and suicide prevention.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 14+
Trigger Warning: Please note this book addresses sensitive topics including suicide, substance abuse, and family violence. While these emotionally challenging realities are held thoughtfully, and with love, this story may be triggering.
Additional Information
109 pages | 5.50" x 7.50" | Paperback
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