Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with Book Recommendations for Kids

by Kevin Noble Maillard; illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal
Ages 5–8
Recommended by Dean D., Pelham Bay Library

Bread is a food that almost everyone has tasted in their lives. The book Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story is all about bread, but not just any type of bread. It’s about a special dish called fry bread that originated from the Navajo, a Native American tribe. It tells the story of how fry bread brings families together and connects them to their roots. Readers will learn the process of making fry bread, in addition to the deep significance of this delicious dish. It's not just a food to eat, it represents unity, tradition, and resilience.

by Carole Lindstrom; illustrated by Steph Littlebird
Ages 5–8
Recommended by Kelly T., Wakefield Library

My Powerful Hair is an inspiring picture book written by Carole Lindstrom (author of Caldecott Medal winner We Are Water Protectors) and illustrated by Steph Littlebird. In this story, a young Indigenous girl cherishes her hair and wishes to grow it long. Stories, adventures, gifts, prayers, and energy are all held in this young girl’s hair. As the girl gains more life experiences, her hair grows longer and longer. It eventually reaches her waist! This book highlights how hair can represent our spirit, strength, and power. Hair tells the story of who we are. My Powerful Hair invites readers to learn about and connect with the traditions and beliefs of a beautiful culture.

by Joy Harjo; illustrated by Michaela Goade
Ages 5–8 
Recommended by Suri M., Pelham Bay Library

It is important to remember who you are and where you came from. In Remember, these values are portrayed through an enlightening poem. This book highlights Joy Harjo and Michaela Goade’s own cultures, and emphasizes the importance of our individuality and connection to the world around us. With mystical illustrations, this book allows young readers to take a deeper look into other cultures while relating new lessons back to their own. The bright colors and magical depictions of animals perfectly reflect Harjo’s positive message to young readers: Be grateful for your life and the world around you.

by Laurel Goodluck; illustrated by Madelyn Goodnight
Ages 5–8
Recommended by Dasiya T., Epiphany Library

Perfect for Native American Heritage Month, Rock Your Mocs is a tribute to Rock Your Mocs Day on November 15th! Beginning in New Mexico over a decade ago, this tradition gives Indigenous people the opportunity to express and embrace their cultural identities. Mocs, short for moccasins, are sacred items that are passed down through many generations, often as symbols of the Native journey.

Tradition. Style. Pride. More than just something that we wear on our feet, shoes represent our unique journeys. Written and illustrated by Native authors, this book highlights all walks of life by celebrating the joy and meaning behind wearing moccasins. It amplifies the importance of honoring our ancestry and unique traditions.

by Julie Buchholtz; illustrated by Aliya Ghare
Ages 5–8
Recommended by Wilbely N., Parkchester Library

Who Am I? is a delightful picture book that provides an engaging way to learn about Indigenous cultures and identities. Using colorful illustrations and rhythmic text, this book invites readers to explore different Native American tribes and their traditions. It encourages young people to not only celebrate their own unique identities, but also understand and appreciate other cultures.

by Deidre Havrelock; illustrated by Aly McKNight
Ages 5–8
Recommended by Dasiya T., Epiphany Library

Why We Dance highlights the beauty of embodying your culture, as well as the importance of observing and honoring your heritage. This picture book details an important tradition, known as the Jingle Dress Dance, originating from the Ojibwe tribe. The Jingle Dress Dance is a traditional celebration of healing the mind and spirit.

Despite the Jingle Dress Dance quickly approaching, there’s still so much to get done: Hair, outfits, jewelry, choreography, oh my! As one girl anxiously awaits her performance, her family reassures her that nerves are natural and overcoming them is the key to proudly honoring the culture that’s shaped her. She’s also reminded of the reason we dance: We dance in honor of those who can’t. Follow this young girl on her Jingle Dress Dance journey as she navigates excitement, nerves, and success. And always remember that when a challenge stands in your way, all you have to do is just keep dancing!

by Traci Sorell; illustrated by France Lessac
Ages 8–10
Recommended by Ariana U., Stapleton Library

We Are Still Here! recounts the true history of Indigenous people in America. Follow along as the young people in this story stand up to defend their culture and traditions, making it clear that they are proud of their history. Native Americans were forced to relocate from their homeland when the Europeans colonized America. This book explains the struggles of Indigenous people throughout history and the challenges they still face today. Despite the ongoing adversities, they always emphasize that they are still here!

by Charles Waters and Traci Sorell
Ages 10–14
Recommended by Tessa S., Van Cortlandt Library

Mascot is about friendship, family, and community. This book takes place in a small town outside of Washington, DC, at a school with an Indigenous person as its mascot. A group of eighth graders are given a school assignment: debate whether the mascot should stay the same or change. This challenging question expands to include most of the school, and eventually the broader community. This book is an amazing example of how young kids can make a positive impact in their communities, and how kids address problems that might seem too big for them. Mascot is an incredible read, and will inspire readers to ask questions and get involved in the issues facing their communities.