November is Native American Heritage Month. Here at Lee & Low Books, we publish a range of Native American, Indigenous, and First Nations children’s books, many of which were written or illustrated by Native creators. We are proud to showcase stories that celebrate Native voices and experiences of Native communities historically underrepresented or misrepresented in children’s literature.
By Sunshine Tenasco
Illustrated by Chief Lady Bird
This bright and vivacious book from two Native creators celebrates the energy, moxie, and determination of water activists of all ages. View the Teacher’s Guide.
By Simon J. Ortiz
Illustrated by Sharol Graves
This powerful story by renowned Acoma Pueblo poet and storyteller Simon J. Ortiz traces the history of Native people of North America from the time of creation to the present. Available in Spanish as El pueblo seguirá. View the Teacher’s Guide.
What’s the Most Beautiful Thing You Know About Horses?
By Richard Van Camp
Illustrated by George Littlechild
Author Richard Van Camp asks his friends and family, “What’s the most beautiful thing you know about horses?” Check out this lesson plan designed for grade 2 created for Books to Build On: Indigenous Literatures for Learning.
By Xelena González
Illustrated by Adriana M. Garcia
From the creators of the award-winning picture book All Around Us comes another lyrical intergenerational story exploring our connections to nature, family, and traditions. Available in Spanish as Donde las maravillas crecen. View the Teacher’s Guide.
By Charlene Willing McManis with Traci Sorell
When Regina’s Umpqua tribe is legally terminated and her family must relocate from Oregon to Los Angeles, she goes on a quest to understand her identity as an Indian despite being so far from home. View the Teacher’s Guide.
The Witch Owl Parliament (Clockwork Curandera #1)
By David Bowles, Raúl the Third
Illustrated by Stacey Robinson, Damian Duffy
Discover a graphic novel unlike any other—a brilliant steampunk reimagining of Frankenstein set in colonial Mexico. View the Teacher’s Guide.
More Resources:
– Watch the Webinar: A Discussion of Contemporary Native Children’s Literature
– Honoring Indigenous Stories on Veterans Day
– Book List: Native Books by Native Authors
