By: Brandy Carroll
Exploring ‘Voices of Gratitude’: Native American Perspectives on Thanksgiving
Embark on a literary journey with ‘Voices of Gratitude: Thanksgiving Tales by Native American Authors.’ This collection offers an authentic window into the unique perspectives of Native American writers. These narratives, rich with cultural traditions and profound insights, provide a fresh perspective. Explore authentic, insightful stories that shed light on thankfulness, shared by Native American writers. Gain new insights into the holiday’s true essence through their cultural traditions.
Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story by Kevin Noble Maillard, illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal.
This beautifully illustrated book celebrates the tradition of fry bread, while also exploring the history, diversity, and unity of Native American families.
Giving Thanks: A Native American Good Morning Message by Chief Jake Swamp, illustrated by Erwin Printup Jr.
Based on the Thanksgiving Address, this traditional Native American message of gratitude and reverence for the earth additionally offers a thoughtful perspective on giving thanks.
We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga by Traci Sorell, illustrated by Frané Lessac
This picture book showcases the Cherokee tradition of offering thanks for every season and moment of life, also highlighting the concept of “otsaliheliga,” meaning “we are grateful.”
The Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich
This novel follows the life of Omakayas, an Ojibwe girl, and her family as they navigate the changing seasons and subsequent challenges of their traditional way of life.
Rain Is Not My Indian Name by Cynthia Leitich Smith.
Additionally, in this young adult novel, Cassidy Rain Berghoff navigates friendship, grief, and identity as a modern-day Seminole teenager.
The Round House by Louise Erdrich
In this novel, a young Native American boy seeks justice, for his mother, as a result of a traumatic event occurs on the Ojibwe reservation.
Bowwow Powwow by Brenda J. Child, translated into Ojibwe by Gordon Jourdain, and illustrated by Jonathan Thunder
This bilingual picture book celebrates the tradition of a powwow, while highlighting the joys and togetherness of this cultural event within the Native American Ojibwe community.
Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer
While not a traditional Thanksgiving book, this work by Robin Wall Kimmerer, a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, offers a profound exploration of the connection between nature, culture, and gratitude. It beautifully conveys the importance of gratitude for the natural world.
Neither Wolf nor Dog: On Forgotten Roads with an Indian Elder by Kent Nerburn
Kent Nerburn’s work offers a captivating narrative about his experiences with a Native American elder. This book provides deep insights into Native American culture and spirituality, while giving readers a unique perspective on gratitude and life’s deeper meanings.
In this collection of books by Native American authors, we delve into a narrative that goes beyond tradition. They celebrate every day and reveal profound gratitude and cultural richness. As we wrap up this exploration, let’s embrace these narratives throughout the year. We honor Native American contributions and appreciate the diverse voices shaping our nation.
“Voices of Gratitude” serves as a constant reminder to celebrate the enduring legacy of unity and resilience.
Why not read one of these fine books as part of your next book club? Let’s celebrate a rich culture and embrace new authors!
