Indigenous Peoples in the United States

Three young cousins explore the woods in search of medicines that heal and purify, also gathering advice from wise beings who offer life lessons cherished through generations.

“I’m running low on medicines,” says Grandma Mindy. At once, Lily, Ogimaa, and Ellie are ready to help. Together they will travel Mashkiki Road—the road where the medicines grow—in search of sage and cedar for Grandma.

Not too far into the woods, they encounter Makwa (Bear), who introduces them to the Seven Grandfather Teachings. Makwa advises them to have the courage to do what is right. Farther along the path they meet Sa’be (Bigfoot), who represents honesty, and Mashkode-Bizhiikii (Buffalo), who encourages respect. When the cousins reach a grove of sage plants, they know what to do. They put out tobacco, give thanks, and gather just the amount Grandma needs—no more, no less.

As they continue on Mashkiki Road, they meet Ma’iingan (Wolf), Amik (Beaver), and Mikinaak (Turtle), who each offer their own lessons. At the cedar grove, the children put out tobacco, give thanks, and gather what they need. As they head home at last, Migizi (Eagle) glides by to assure them he has been watching over their journey. Migizi offers the seventh Grandfather Teaching: love.

Back at Grandma’s, Lily, Ogimaa, and Ellie have much treasure to share: cedar and sage from Mashkiki Road, and also tales of the wisdom they gained along the way.

Reviews
"Native teachings are at the center of this beautiful children's picture book by two members of the Red Lake Ojibwe.... Their partnership is a winner. Barrett’s lyrical text is perfectly complemented by Thunder’s contemporary illustrations."- St. Paul Pioneer Press

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 7.

Includes a Glossary of Ojibwe words used in the story.

Additional Information
32 pages | 10.00" x 10.00" | Hardcover

The beloved traditional English Christmas carol, The Twelve Days of Christmas, has been adapted here to reflect aspects of the richly varied cultures and traditions of twelve Native American cultural groups from different parts of the U.S. A cultural background is included for each day's gift in an easy-to-understand manner, placing the adapted song lyrics in the context of these tribal cultures. 

Educator Information
Recommended for grades 1 to 5.

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.25" x 11.75"

From the author of Hedge Over Heels comes another irresistible story featuring family, friendship, and an adorable baby fox!

Twelve-year-old Skye has just rescued a baby fox she’s named Kitkat, with the help of her Park Ranger cousin Braeden. Skye would usually release the fox back into the wild as soon as it’s healed, but this baby fox was injured by a trap. No one hurts a baby animal and gets away with it as long as Skye’s around, and now she’s on a mission to find the poacher!

When Skye takes Kitkat to the vet, she meets a quiet girl named Ivy. To Skye’s surprise, Ivy decides to join in on the investigation and a friendship starts to form between the girls. But will these new friends uncover the true identity of the poacher and safely release Kitkat back into the wild?

Reviews
"Skye Hunter, along with little brother Leo, spends every summer in Verdant, Massachusetts, with her aunt Lynne, uncle Pete, and park ranger cousin Braeden. Skye, with help from Braeden, rescues a baby fox from a trap baited with poisoned meat in the state park adjacent to their family diner. She names the injured fox Kitcat. At the veterinary clinic, Skye meets a girl named Ivy, who’s a new arrival to Verdant from Saskatchewan and is a member of the Nakoda First Nation. McMullen-Ciotti (Cherokee) has created two intriguing main characters, both of whom are dealing with loneliness. Skye, who has moved a lot and struggled to make friends, slowly grows close to Ivy, even as the girls search for the identity of the poacher, documenting clues while sharing aspects of their respective Indigenous cultures. Suspenseful (but not too scary) moments involve a spooky oddities shop and a search for leads at the public library. The effective combination of animal rescue and sleuthing with themes of friendship and family life make this a strong and appealing choice. Skye’s passion for natural science, Ivy’s skill in caring for animals, aspiring comedian Leo’s humor, and the storytelling of the girls’ uncles round out the story. A charming and engaging tale with special appeal for nature and animal lovers." - Kirkus Reviews

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 8 to 12.

Additional Information
256 pages | 5.25" x 7.62" | Paperback

Eleven-year-old Zach Feather can't wait to go on his first pheasant hunting trip, especially when he learns his parents have a surprise for him—a new bird dog! The family travels across the state from the Cherokee reservation in eastern Oklahoma to hunt pheasant on a relative's ranch. There are more surprises—including a rattlesnake encounter—in store for Zach on his first hunt. Along the way, he learns that hunting is about more than just finding pheasants. It's also about patience and the things in life that are most important—hunting with his dog and his family.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 8 to 11.

This book is part of the Wilderness Ridge Series. Authentic hunting and fishing stories are brought to life in this chapter-book series perfect for fans of Jake Maddox. Readers will experience the highs and lows of outdoor adventures—from the thrill of a young hunter’s first deer camp to the disappointment of missing a big fish. No matter the outcome, these stories will demonstrate essential skills young sportsmen and sportswomen need, including teamwork, respect, personal responsibility, and positive thinking. With action-packed illustrations and accessible text, Wilderness Ridge will reel in readers and have them hunting for the next book.

Additional Information
72 pages | 5.25" x 7.50" | Paperback

This delightful story teaches children that many bugs are helpful insects and enables the reader to develop a positive and protective attitude towards them. Willie the Worm introduces his insect friends and inspires the young reader to discover a fresh interest in bugs and to realize many of them are indeed their friends too. Included are a series of questions and recommended activities to help parents and teachers engage children to learn even more about these little helpers.

Educator Information
Recommended for grades 2 and under.

Included are a series of questions and recommended activities to help parents and teachers engage children to learn even more about these little helpers.

Includes these insects: worm, bee, butterfly, caterpillar, firefly, ant, ladybug, spider, daddy long legs, moth, dragonfly, hornet, snail, grasshopper, cricket.

Additional Information
40 pages | 8.50" x 8.50" | Paperback

In this uplifting, contemporary Native American story, River is recovering from illness and can't dance at the powwow this year. Will she ever dance again?

River wants so badly to dance at powwow day as she does every year. In this uplifting and contemporary picture book perfect for beginning readers, follow River's journey from feeling isolated after an illness to learning the healing power of community.

Additional information explains the history and functions of powwows, which are commonplace across the United States and Canada and are open to both Native Americans and non-Native visitors.

Awards

• 2023 Wyoming Buckaroo Award

Reviews
"A heartwarming picture book about the roles of courage, culture, and community in the journey of personal healing." —Kirkus Reviews

"A resonant, hopeful tale about the healing power of community and tradition" —Publishers Weekly

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8.

Additional Information
32 pages | 9.44" x 9.31" | Hardcover

The descendant of Cherokee ancestors who had been forced to walk the Trail of Tears, Wilma Mankiller experienced her own forced removal from the land she grew up on as a child. As she got older and learned more about the injustices her people had faced, she dedicated her life to instilling pride in Native heritage and reclaiming Native rights. She went on to become the first woman Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation.

In this chapter book biography by award-winning author Traci Sorell, readers learn about the amazing life of Wilma Mankiller--and how she persisted.

Complete with an introduction from Chelsea Clinton, black-and-white illustrations throughout, and a list of ways that readers can follow in Wilma Mankiller's footsteps and make a difference!

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 9.

This book is part of the She Persisted series, a chapter book series about women who spoke up and rose up against the odds.

Additional Information
80 pages | 5.31" x 7.63" | Paperback

In this beautifully reimagined story by NSK Neustadt Laureate and New York Times bestselling author Cynthia Leitich Smith (Muscogee Creek), Native American Lily and English Wendy embark on a high-flying journey of magic, adventure, and courage to a fairy-tale island known as Neverland…

Lily and Wendy have been best friends since they became stepsisters. But with their feuding parents planning to spend the summer apart, what will become of their family—and their friendship?

Little do they know that a mysterious boy has been watching them from the oak tree outside their window. A boy who intends to take them away from home for good, to an island of wild animals, Merfolk, Fairies, and kidnapped children, to a sea of merfolk, pirates, and a giant crocodile.

A boy who calls himself Peter Pan.

Awards

• Publishers Weekly Best Book
• Bank STreet Children's Best Books of the Year
• Kirkus Reviews Best Children's Book

Reviews
"While Smith wields Barrie’s storyteller voice, writing from a head-hopping omniscient voice that addresses readers directly, this is less a retelling and more a rebuttal, critiquing the problematic aspects of the classic—often quite overtly—and the consequences of such harmful influences are explored over the course of many actions, adventure, and magical island exploration. An exciting journey in its own right and a necessary “recommend-along” for patrons seeking Barrie’s original." — Booklist (starred review)

"Full of fantastic storytelling, thrills, and humor, this book is a recommended purchase for all upper elementary and early middle school collections." — School Library Journal 

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 8 to 12.

Sisters of the Neversea offers a modern, Indigenous take on J. M. Barrie's Peter and Wendy.

Additional Information
336 pages | 5.12" x 7.62" | Paperback

From healing to astronomy to our connection to the natural world, the lessons from Indigenous knowledge inform our learning and practices today.

How do knowledge systems get passed down over generations? Through the knowledge inherited from their Elders and ancestors, Indigenous Peoples throughout North America have observed, practiced, experimented, and interacted with plants, animals, the sky, and the waters over millennia. Knowledge keepers have shared their wisdom with younger people through oral history, stories, ceremonies, and records that took many forms.

In Sky Wolf’s Call, award-winning author team of Eldon Yellowhorn and Kathy Lowinger reveal how Indigenous knowledge comes from centuries of practices, experiences, and ideas gathered by people who have a long history with the natural world. Indigenous knowledge is explored through the use of fire and water, the acquisition of food, the study of astronomy, and healing practices.

Reviews
"An authoritative tribute to Indigenous knowledge systems that's a must-have for every library and classroom." - Kirkus Reviews

“Sky Wolf’s Call has an astoundingly broad scope introducing Indigenous Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) in North America from time immemorial to the current day … This fast paced celebration of Indigenous innovation and technology is riveting.” - The British Columbia Review

Educator Information
Interest Age: 11+
Grade: 6+
Reading Age: 11+

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

Table of Contents
Author’s Note

1: Sky Wolf’s Call: The Gift of Indigenous Knowledge: Foundational ideas behind Indigenous Knowledge and the importance of retaining, maintaining, and learning this sacred knowledge.

2: Water Knowledge Ways: Water links us all and is sacred. Indigenous people have fought to protect the gift of water from harm, and the critical role it has played in transportation, agriculture, irrigation, and food.

3: Fire and Smoke Knowledge: Fire and smoke are great gifts, including the burning of tobacco. In sacred ceremonies, smoke connects our breath with the heavens. Fire cooks our food, helps grow our crops, and even keeps our waters clean. Cultural burns are used to benefit the land.

4: Indigenous Knowledge and Food Security: Sharing, growing, and receiving food with family, community, and visitors is both an honour and a tradition. By understanding the traditional practices of salmon fishing, clam gardens, planting and harvesting certain crops, or hunting buffalo, Indigenous Peoples have respected what Mother Earth has to offer.

5: Healing Knowledge Ways: The use of the medicine wheel and the sweat lodge have been used over centuries and still help sick and troubled people. Games such as lacrosse and chunkey have helped in building individual strength and community spirit. And braiding together Indigenous healing and western science has opened new learning opportunities.

6: Sky Knowledge: From the earliest Indigenous astronomers to modern astrophysicists, these sky watchers have studied the sacred gifts of the sky: the sun, moon, planets, and stars that have produced maps, calendars, beliefs about how to govern, and even directions for building homes.

7: Keeping the Knowledge: Indigenous People hold oral narratives in high esteem because that was the way knowledge passed from one generation to the next. People in North America recorded important events with symbols, pictographs (paintings), and petroglyphs (carvings). Language Keepers and Knowledge keepers are making sure that Indigenous knowledge is never forgotten.

8: Sky Wolf’s Call: Indigenous knowledge is based on the idea that this world is a gift. Understanding the idea of connections (the skies with the earth, people with animals, the practical with the spiritual) is an important lesson with the challenges of climate change, pandemics, and wars. The wisdom of Indigenous Knowledge can help the whole world.

Thanks and Acknowledgments

Glossary

Selected Reading

Sources and Contacts

Additional Information
120 pages | 7.50" x 9.25" | Paperback

A beautifully illustrated hardcover storybook introducing kids to the characters of Netflix’s preschool show Spirit Rangers!

It’s opening day at Xus National Park in Southern California, and Kodi, Summer, and Eddy Skycedar’s first day as Junior Park Rangers! But when a mysterious storm threatens to close the park, the siblings must put their heads together to save the day.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 7.

Kids ages 3 to 7 will love this hardcover storybook full of beautiful illustrations featuring the amazing characters from Netflix’s newest preschool show Spirit Rangers!

Created by Samala Chumash descendent, Karissa Valencia, Spirit Rangers is a fantasy-adventure preschool series following Native American sibling trio Kodiak, Summer and Eddy Skycedar, who have a shared secret—they’re Spirit Rangers! Spirit Rangers protect every crook, cranny and critter of Spirit Park. With the blessing of the Chumash and Cowlitz tribes, we’ll join the Skycedar kids on their amazing adventures with spirits inspired by Indigenous stories.

Additional Information
32 pages | 10.30" x 10.30" | Hardcover

Meet the Super SHEroes of History, the women who have shaped history and society since ancient times.

Indigenous women were prominent members of their communities long before Europeans reached North America. When the newcomers arrived, they played a key role in holding their communities together in the face of social turmoil. Some joined male warriors to fight European settlement, while others such as Nanyehi/Nancy Ward argued that the two peoples could coexist peacefully. Indigenous women led political and legal fights to preserve their traditional rights throughout the 20th century and still do so today. Some became active campaigners in numerous causes, especially in the struggle to protect sacred lands from construction. This book tells their stories and describes their vital contributions.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 8 to 12.

Additional Information
48 pages | 7.12" x 8.37" | Paperback

The middle-grade novel The Brave is about a boy with an OCD issue and his move to a reservation to live with his biological mother.

Collin can't help himself—he has a unique condition that finds him counting every letter spoken to him. It's a quirk that makes him a prime target for bullies, and a continual frustration to the adults around him, including his father.

When Collin asked to leave yet another school, his dad decides to send him to live in Minnesota with the mother he's never met. She is Ojibwe, and lives on a reservation. Collin arrives in Duluth with his loyal dog, Seven, and quickly finds his mom and his new home to be warm, welcoming, and accepting of his condition.

Collin’s quirk is matched by that of his neighbor, Orenda, a girl who lives mostly in her treehouse and believes she is turning into a butterfly. With Orenda’s help, Collin works hard to overcome his challenges. His real test comes when he must step up for his new friend and trust his new family.

Reviews
"It's rare to find a book that gives insight into an intensely specific cultural and cognitive experience, yet simultaneously taps something universal: wanting to be accepted for who you are and find where you fit. The Brave does just that, and so much more. I've never read anything like it. Collin is a kid it's impossible not to root for."—Nic Stone, New York Times-bestselling author of Dear Martin

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 9 to 12.

#Ownvoices story about an Ojibwe boy named Colin who is finding out who he really is.

Additional Information
320 pages | 5.13" x 7.67" | Paperback

A Lakota author’s version of how the Pleiades, the Seven Sisters star formation, came to be.

When seven Lakota sisters venture deep into the forest to gather chokecherries, they are surprised and chased by Mato Sica, a giant bear known to eat people. The sisters run and climb up a short rock ledge and pray for help. The ground trembles and gives a sudden jolt, and they find themselves on top of a tall earth tower. A great giant eagle comes to their rescue and carries the seven sisters up to the Star Nation, where they are welcomed home and become the Wicincala Sakowin, also known as the Seven Sisters or Pleiades star formation.

Reviews
“Author/illustrator Beartrack-Algeo (Lower Brule Lakota Nation) creates a mystical world. [A] retelling of the story of Pleiades, the Seven Sisters star formation. Rich oil paintings accompany the lyrical telling. An opening glossary defines Lakota terms. Lovingly depicts the sacred relationship between Lakota people and their homeland.”— Kirkus Reviews

“Beartrack-Algeo’s love and pride of her (Lakota) culture and the land shines throughout the story.”— School Library Journal

Educator Information
Includes a glossary of Lakota words and phrases.

Concepts / Subjects: Indigenous; Lakota; Astronomy; Star Formations.

Recommended for ages 6 to 8.

Additional Information
40 pages | 8.50" x 8.50" | Paperback

In 1921, Inupait seamstress Ada Blackjack joined a a group of four white men who wanted to establish a trading post on Wrangel Island in the freezing Arctic Ocean. The explorers were stranded on the island when their return ship was forced to turn back due to ice. Facing harsh conditions and dwindling food supplies, the men died one by one, but Ada remained. Find out how she alone managed to survive the disastrous expedition.

Reviews
"The lesser-known 1921 Wrangel Island Expedition is chronicled in this graphic novel.... The book begins by introducing its two key players: Ada Blackjack (a young Inuit single mother from Nome, Alaska) and Vilhjalmur Steffansson (an aging white explorer of Icelandic heritage). Steffansson was determined to establish a European colony on Wrangel Island, off the coast of Siberia. He assembled a five-man team of explorers, and Blackjack, desperate for money, joined them. While the writing is a bit stilted, the artwork makes the tale quite lively, especially once the expedition reaches the uninhabited island. Readers will become engrossed in the team’s efforts to survive and be impressed with how Blackjack proves herself the most capable person there; indeed, she’s the sole survivor. A map and additional information conclude."— Julia Smith, Booklist

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 8 to 11.

Additional Information
32 pages | 7.00" x 9.00" | Paperback

In this evocative and heartwarming novel for readers who loved The Thing About Jellyfish, the author of I Can Make This Promise tells the story of a Native American girl struggling to find her joy again.

It’s been a hard year for Maisie Cannon, ever since she hurt her leg and could not keep up with her ballet training and auditions.

Her blended family is loving and supportive, but Maisie knows that they just can’t understand how hopeless she feels. With everything she’s dealing with, Maisie is not excited for their family midwinter road trip along the coast, near the Makah community where her mother grew up.

But soon, Maisie’s anxieties and dark moods start to hurt as much as the pain in her knee. How can she keep pretending to be strong when on the inside she feels as roiling and cold as the ocean?

Reviews
"This thoughtful, honest sophomore novel invites readers to reckon with life's messy complexities while reassuring them that every ending brings the seeds of new beginnings."— Shelf Awareness

"This meditative story about a middle school girl’s courageous journey toward healing follows a family as they navigate the complexities of supporting a tween’s life-changing injury. In her second novel, Day offers a heartening glimpse into the immense patience and love required to endure limitations, build strength, and repair damage. An insightful, stirring read about healing and resilience."— Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 8 to 12.

Additional Information
272 pages | 5.12" x 7.62"