Today’s post brings to you, as the title says, 3 Amazing Children’s Books For Native American Heritage Month, also called Indigenous Heritage Month, National American Indian Heritage Month, and National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month. While I initially had more books in the original list, putting down my thoughts for each of them took longer than I thought it would and so I decided to feature a few at a time, starting with these three wonderful reads. Each of these books is illustrated and/or written by a person of Native American origin.

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3 Amazing Children’s Books For Native American Heritage Month

I Sang You Down From the Stars

My Thoughts

This book is a tug-at-your-heartstrings, then wrap-it-in-a-warm-hug kind of book. Its sweet and lyrical text accompanied by stunning and detailed artwork show the all-encompassing, unconditional love of a mother towards her child as well as the respect both creators have for their native cultures.

It also gives readers a peek into the Native American tradition of mothers preparing a collection of items for their soon to be born babe during their pregnancy. This bundle is meant to help their child along their own life journey.

A perfect book to add to the gift bags of new and expectant parents this holiday season, and well, just about anyone.

Get it Here

Amazon || Book Depository

Thunder Boy Jr.

My Thoughts

Sherman Alexie is one of those authors I had planned to read for the longest while, from the first time I saw “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” ages ago. But I somehow never read Alexie even when my kids read the aforementioned book, until I took a writing class in 2019 where we read “Superman and Me.” I truly enjoyed the look into Native American life through this essay. It was an eye opener, so to speak.

This book narrates the story of a little boy, Thunder Boy Jr., who has inherited his name from his father. Now he wants a name that is unique to him. Alexie captures the tenderness and warmth of the father-son relationship effortlessly while Yuyi Morales‘ dynamic and vibrant illustrations are the perfect accompaniment to this heartwarming story of family. And of course, we learn the importance of names.

While you are at it, gift this sweet read as well to those you love!

Get it Here

Amazon || Book Depository

Jingle Dancer

My Thoughts

I love dancing, love reading about traditions passed on from generation to generation, and definitely love reading tales that center around family and community. This story has all of that, and more. I learned about the dance itself, as well as its colorful jingly costume, and more about the culture woven all through the pages with lyrical narrative and colorful artwork.

I loved how the words spoke the language of the culture, like in this beautiful phrase “As Sun fetched morning.” And of course, I could not help but admire the details in the illustrations that gave me more than a peek into this tradition. Don’t forget to read the Author’s Note at the end of the book.

A great way to introduce readers, young and old, to a wonderful aspect of Native American traditions and culture.

Get it Here

Amazon || Book Depository

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And Now, the End of This Post

Dear reader, have you read any of these books? Your thoughts on them? Do you have any recommendations for similar books? As always, any and all comments and suggestions are welcome.