Librarian Prep Post: Books to Celebrate Native American Heritage Month
This fall is already busy with back-to-school activities, but November’s Native American Heritage Month will be here before you know it. We’ve selected a few books you can order, process, and spotlight ahead of time, ensuring your readers have authentic stories and voices to explore when the month begins.
Clack, Clack! Smack!
Interest Level: Grade 1 – Grade 3
Written and illustrated by Cherokee Nation tribal members, this fast-paced story follows a game of social stickball played by children from two Cherokee communities in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, the capital of the Cherokee Nation. Interspersed with the exciting play-by-play of the game is the Tsalagi language (called Cherokee in English), which reflects the importance of keeping the language alive. Vann loves his tribal game, but he isn’t as skilled as his teammates. With the coach’s encouragement to work together—gadugi—an important Cherokee value, and the help of his best friend Jesse, Vann overcomes his self-doubt in this uplifting story of team spirit and collaboration. Includes a Tsalagi glossary and notes about stickball and language.
Native American Lives
Interest Level: Grade 4 – Grade 8
How much do you know about Dakota and Ojibwe leaders? This series highlights the lives of leaders while amplifying Native storytelling and representation.
Native to This Land
From the Series Spotlight on Social Justice
Interest Level: Grade 6 – Grade 12
Hundreds of Indigenous nations call North America home—and have since before the countries that make up the continent formed. Indigenous peoples across North America have experienced centuries of struggle and resilience in the face of colonization and oppression. Their journey emphasizes the importance of connection to land, tradition, and community while challenging the narratives imposed by colonial powers. Native to This Land uncovers the rich tapestry of Indigenous histories, highlighting the enduring spirit that continues to thrive. As Native nations navigate the complexities of identity, culture, and sovereignty, their experiences reflect a powerful story of survival and resistance. This examination of Indigenous rights shows an evolving landscape where the struggle for justice and self-determination is as crucial as ever.
Looking for More Ideas?
Don’t forget to look back! Past Librarian Prep Posts highlight additional Native-focused titles from earlier seasons that pair perfectly with the new books we’ve shared here. Pulling from both will give your readers a fuller range of stories and perspectives.
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