Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with CCJPL
November is Native American Heritage Month! The library has dozens of books to choose from celebrating Native American stories and authors. Native American stories are vital for preserving the rich histories, values, and perspectives of Indigenous communities, offering insights that deepen our understanding of the American landscape and its diverse cultures. These indigenous works encourage empathy, inspire reflection, and celebrate Indigenous identity, cultivating a broader appreciation for cultural diversity in literature. Reading and supporting Native American authors is a meaningful way to honor and uplift these essential voices.
Here is a quick list to inspire you as you choose your next read. Be sure and visit the library and check out our Native American Heritage Month displays!
Adults:
“In My Own Moccasins: A Memoir of Resilience” by Helen Knott
An unflinching account of addiction, intergenerational trauma, and the wounds brought on by sexual violence. It is also the story of sisterhood, the power of ceremony, the love of family, and the possibility of redemption. With gripping moments of withdrawal, times of spiritual awareness, and historical insights going back to the signing of Treaty 8 by her great-great grandfather, Chief Bigfoot, her journey exposes the legacy of colonialism, while reclaiming her spirit.
Peter Cozzens delves into the harrowing conflict between Andrew Jackson and the Creek Indians, shedding light on a pivotal yet often overlooked chapter in American history. The book explores the Creek War of 1813-1814, a brutal clash that shaped the destiny of the American South and the native Creek people. Cozzens vividly recounts the strategic and violent encounters, painting a nuanced portrait of Jackson as both a fierce military leader and a complex figure with controversial methods. Through meticulous research, Cozzens reveals the far-reaching consequences of this conflict on the Creek Nation and on American expansion.
Young Adults:
“Everything you Wanted to Know about Indianans but were Afraid to Ask” by Anton Treuer
From the acclaimed Ojibwe author and professor Anton Treuer comes an essential book of questions and answers for Native and non-Native young readers alike. Ranging from "Why is there such a fuss about nonnative people wearing Indian costumes for Halloween?" to "Why is it called a 'traditional Indian fry bread taco'?" to "What's it like for natives who don't look native?" to "Why are Indians so often imagined rather than understood?", and beyond, this book does exactly what its title says for young readers, in a style consistently thoughtful, personal, and engaging. Updated and expanded to include dozens of new questions and new sections, including a social activism section that explores the Dakota Access Pipeline, racism, identity, politics, and more; over 50 new photos; and adapted text for broad appeal.
“Fire Keepers Daughter” by Angeline Boulley
Daunis, who is part Ojibwe, defers attending the University of Michigan to care for her mother and reluctantly becomes involved in the investigation of a series of drug-related deaths.
Children's:
“Rock Your Mocs” by Laurel Goodluck; Illustrated by Madelyn Goodnight
Rock Your Mocs" by Laurel Goodluck, illustrated by Madelyn Goodnight, celebrates Indigenous pride and cultural identity as children proudly wear their moccasins in honor of Native heritage. With vibrant illustrations, this joyful story encourages young readers to connect with their traditions and embrace their roots with pride.
“On Powwow Day” by Traci Sorell
A story of River, a young girl who longs to dance at her tribe's powwow but feels held back by an illness. Through a supportive community and the power of tradition, River discovers new ways to connect with her culture and celebrate with her family.