As we celebrate Thanksgiving, enjoy some beautiful new books that celebrate Native American culture and history.
We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga by Traci Sorrell, illustrated by Frane Lessac is vibrant and beautiful book. The Cherokee community uses the word “otsaliheliga” to express gratitude. The book takes us through a year of traditions and celebrations, starting in the autumn, so it’s a great way to think about thankfulness all year long. The author is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation.
Go Show the World: A Celebration of Indigenous Heroes by Wab Kinew, pictures by Joe Morse is an inspiring sampling of indigenous people of the US and Canada and their contributions. It celebrates heroes (and heroines) from a long span of time and many different indigenous cultures. The author was associate vice-president for Indigenous Affairs at the University of Winnipeg and is an elected Member of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba. Kinew is a member of the Midewin and an honorary witness for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.
You might also explore the picture books featured in an article by Educasic last year: “3 Children’s Books about Thanksgiving from Native Perspectives.”
What books do you share at Thanksgiving?