Sherman Alexie is a well known author for teens and adults. He wrote this, his first picture book, in part because there isn't enough representation of indigenous people in picture books. In his loving family, Thunder Boy, Jr. struggles to find his own place and name.
Written by Gabriel Soliman
Definition
A story of cultural identity and belonging, Firekeeper's Daughter is suspenseful and smart. When Daunis loses someone close to her, she becomes deeply engaged in an FBI investigation of a drug that is tearing the Northern Michigan community apart.
While this loving family makes traditional fry bread, we explore the sounds colors, flavors, and togetherness of a Native American family.
Nibi, whose name means water, does not have clean water at her house for drinking and bathing. Through her persistence and sense of fairness, she is able to gather a group of people who join her voice and work to get clean water for her house.
In “We Came to America,” Faith Ringgold reminds us that America is made up of diverse groups from all over the world. She highlights Indigenous Americans who were here before others, as well as enslaved Africans who did not immigrate but were forced to come to America.
This unit includes three lessons that educate, motivate, and call youth to action.
We build empathy and respect for people and giving traditions by listening to stories and traditions of present-day Native Americans. Participants practice listening and taking notes to capture key ideas.
(A song/chant in the Hopi language)
Native American (Ojibwa) Tale: Although physically deformed, Bokwewa is gifted in supernatural ways and has a very generous and loving spirit. When his brother goes after his wife’s kidnapper, Bokwewa warns him to resist temptations that will divert him. He doesn’t obey and Bokwewa attempts to rescue him. Good for discussion on benevolence and self-sacrifice versus temptation and vanity.
