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I'm hopeful AND nervous this time of year
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Hi Reader, Indigenous Peoples Day is this Monday. November is Native American Heritage Month. We're about the enter the short time of year when non-Native children are most likely to hear things about Indigenous peoples, especially at school. I'm hopeful this time of year that educators, families, and community groups will take advantage of the growing body of resources for respectfully and accurately learning about Indigenous nations in the present day, as well as their histories. But I'm also nervous that too many kids will hear the same stereotypical and false narratives as always. Even well-meaning adults can accidentally send the message that Native Americans are only peoples of the past. I know that you, justice-minded friend, don't want to make that mistake. One of the antidotes recommended by Dr. Debbie Reese, a Nambé Pueblo scholar of children’s literature, is focusing first on children's books about Indigenous people that are set in the present day. My blog post of Indigenous children's books set in the present day are all titles written by Native authors, and there are books for all ages. A few of my favorites include: ⭐ A stunningly illustrated story of a family welcoming a new baby, who is a gift from the stars. 🌈A vibrant story of an urban intertribal community center, where love is love is love. 🎒An adventurous graphic novel about two odd-couple cousins who team up to take down a villainous vice principal. If you're looking for additional ideas for celebrating Indigenous Peoples' Day with kids, check out this post from my archives. Happy reading, Rebekah P.S. Bookshop.org is offering free shipping today and tomorrow for their Anti-Prime sale - perfect timing if you've realized your Indigenous children's bookshelf is empty or needs a refresh. Your purchase of anything on the site supports my business and independent bookstores! Rebekah Gienapp (she/her/hers) | rebekahgienapp.com | Connect on Instagram | Coffees for Gaza | |
Raising antiracist kids
Are you a parent, caregiver, or educator who wants to help children become brave justice seekers? Subscribe for practical tips, children's book recommendations, and resources for antiracist families and classrooms.
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Hi Reader, Banned Books Week starts on October 5th and sadly it is more relevant than ever. The huge spike in book challenges and bans that started in 2021 has only continued to rise, with the federal government now joining in this censorship on a massive scale. But that does not mean we are helpless! Even in my conservative home state of Tennessee, the Rutherford County Library Board unanimously voted to put previously banned books back on the shelves in June after public and legal pressure....