in celebration of National Native American Heritage Month, we’ve collected a list of 18 wonderful books to help you celebrate the stories and voices of Indigenous authors and illustrators.
1. I Sang You Down from the Stars by Tasha Spillett-Sumner The author of this enchanting book is from the Inniwak Nation and the illustrator is from the Tlinget Nation. Mystical watercolor landscapes tell the story of a mother-to-be who awaits for the arrival of her new baby by creating a sacred bundle. A white feather, cedar and sage, a stone from the river… each addition to the bundle offers her new baby strength and connection to tradition, family, and community.
2. Berry Song by Michaela Goade
3. Tanna’s Lemming by Rachel Qitsualik-Tinsley, Sean Qitsualik-Tinsley & Tamara Campeau
4. The Star That Always Stays by Anna Rose Johnson
5. The Range Eternal by Louise Erdrich
Charmingly illustrated, this magical story of a girlhood lived in the glow of a woodstove from Louise Erdrich tells a story of hearth and home memory and imagination, and of the warmth and importance of family.
6. When We Were Alone by David Roberston
7. Little You by Richard Van Camp & Julie Flett
8. My Heart Fills with Happiness by Monique Gray Smith
9. What’s the Most Beautiful Thing You Know about Horses? by Richard Van Camp
It’s a brilliantly cold winter day, and this delightful tale by Dogrib Nation author Richard Van Camp explores a whimsical search for answers to the title question, appeals to the innate imagination and whimsical child in us all.
10. Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story by Kevin Noble Maillard & Juana Martinez Neal
11. Johnny’s Pheasant by Cheryl Minnema & Julie Flett
12. Remember by Joy Harjo
13. Treaty Words for as Long as the Rivers Flow by Aimée Craft & Luke Swinson
This story is essential for readers of all ages, affirming the importance of understanding Indigenous perspectives on treaties. Evocative illustrations underline the values of respect and harmony of the land we inhabit.
14. Thanks to the Animals by Allen J. Sockabasin
15. Runs With the Stars by Darcy Whitecrow & Heather M. O’Connor
16. Still This Love Goes On, by Buffy Sainte-Marie & Julie Flett
Accompanied by sheet music which provides an interactive component, this gorgeously illustrated picture book is a stunning celebration of Indigenous experiences and highlights the Academy Award winning song of musician Buffy Sainte-Marie.
17. Jo Jo Makoons: Fancy Pants by Dawn Quigley & Tara Audibert
18. A Day with Yayah by Nicola I. Campbell & Julie Flett