(Written by Grace W.)

November is Native American Heritage month! To celebrate this month, here are some book recommendations that feature Native American authors, topics, and characters. All of the books highlighted are available through the Brookfield Public Library either in print or digitally.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, by Sherman Alexie (YA FIC ALEXIE)

In Alexie’s debut YA novel he tells the story of Arnold Spirit, a Native American teen who transfers from a school on the Spokane reservation to a white public school. In this novel Alexie explores the struggles Arnold faces on and off the reservation as he questions what constitutes one’s community, identity, and tribe.

Hearts Unbroken by Cynthia Leitich Smith (YA FIC SMITH)

This novel is the 2020 winner of the American Indian Library Association Youth Literature Award. It tells the story of Muskogee (Creek) teen Lou and how she grapples with her family’s recent move to Kanas. This book explores how she grapples with identity, equality, and dating while Native.

An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States for Young People, by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz and Jean Mendoza (YA 970.004 MEN)

This book provides an indigenous perspective on US history. Dunbar-Ortiz covers topics that are sometimes omitted in history class such as genocide, the role colonialism played in developing the US, and the many ways Native Americans are resisting US imperialism. This book includes discussion topics, maps, and photos to encourage readers to think critically.

Redbone: The True Story of a Native American Rock Band, Christian Staebler (Coming soon to BFPL in print)

This graphic novel tells the story of Native American rock stars and civil rights activists. This book tells the origin story of the classic rock band Redbone and discusses their involvement with the American Indian Movement and social justice causes. This colorful novel is a great choice for music fans.

Dreaming in Indian: Contemporary Native American Voices, by Lisa Charleyboy and Beth Leatherdale (YA 970.1 DRE)

This book provides readers with a collection of poems, photographs, artwork, interviews, and essays created by Native Americans from across North America. The topics this collection covers include bullying, identity, racism, poverty, coming of age, adoption, and more. This book shares the stories of strong and courageous indigenous youth.

Night Flying Woman, by Ignatia Broker (Available on Hoopla)

This book tells the story of Broker’s great-great grandmother who lived through a time of great change and loss for the Minnesota Ojibway. In addition to themes of loss and hardship, this book also highlights a story of strength.

For more information about Native American Heritage month, check out the link below.

https://nativeamericanheritagemonth.gov/