For families wanting to introduce their children to diverse cultures, this book offers a respectful and informative look into the rich traditions of the Hopi people.
A parent would reach for this book when looking for a respectful and authentic way to introduce their child to a specific Native American culture, moving beyond common stereotypes. 'The Hopis' is a nonfiction chapter book that offers a window into the world of the Hopi people of the American Southwest. It explores their history, spiritual traditions like the Kachinas, unique agricultural practices, and the structure of their communities. The book fosters curiosity and empathy, celebrating the resilience and rich cultural identity of the Hopi Nation. Its clear, informative style is perfect for children aged 7 to 10 who are ready to learn about the world with nuance and respect. It's an excellent resource for school projects or for any family wanting to broaden their cultural understanding.
May include brief, age-appropriate mentions of historical hardships faced by the Hopi people.
Sensitive Topics
The primary theme is cultural identity, which is handled directly and factually, celebrating Hopi heritage. The book may briefly allude to historical challenges and conflicts faced by Indigenous peoples, but the approach is likely to be age-appropriate and focused on the theme of resilience and cultural persistence. The discussion of Hopi spirituality (Kachinas) is presented as a core part of their belief system in a respectful, secular-educational manner. The resolution is one of hopeful cultural continuity.
Ideal Reader
An intellectually curious child, 7-10 years old, who enjoys nonfiction and is beginning to ask questions about history and different cultures. It is perfect for a child assigned a school project on Native Americans or for a family that wants to provide specific, accurate representations of Indigenous peoples.
Parent Prep
Parents should be prepared to discuss the vast diversity among Native American nations and explain that the Hopi are just one of hundreds of distinct groups. It would be helpful to look up photos of the Hopi mesas or examples of Hopi art like pottery and katsina tithu (dolls) to enrich the reading experience. The book can be read cold, but this external context will deepen understanding. A parent hears their child say something like, 'All Indians lived in tipis, right?' or 'Are Native Americans still alive?' The parent wants to correct this generalization with a specific, authentic, and positive example of a thriving, unique Native culture.
Age Experience
A younger child (7-8) will be most interested in the tangible aspects: the desert environment, houses built on cliffs, colorful ceremonies, and the importance of corn. An older child (9-10) will be better able to grasp abstract concepts like the matrilineal social structure, the spiritual meaning behind the ceremonies, and the historical idea of cultural perseverance.
What Makes It Special
Its specificity is its greatest strength. Unlike many books that generalize the 'Native American experience,' this book provides a deep and respectful dive into one specific nation: the Hopi. Furthermore, it is written by Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve, a celebrated Sicangu Lakota author, which lends it an invaluable layer of authenticity and cultural respect.
Read plot summary
This nonfiction chapter book provides a focused introduction to the Hopi Nation of the American Southwest. The text covers key aspects of Hopi life, including their ancestral connection to their land, their unique high-desert farming techniques (dry farming), their matrilineal clan system, and their rich spiritual life, with a focus on the role of Kachinas. The book also touches upon Hopi history and the ways in which modern Hopi people balance traditional practices with contemporary life. It is an informational text, not a narrative story.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
The book explains that Hopi society is matrilineal, where family lines are traced through the mother. How is this different from or similar to how you think about your own family tree?
2
The Hopi are masters of 'dry farming,' growing crops like corn in the desert with very little water. What does this skill tell you about their relationship with the land and their knowledge passed through generations?
3
Kachinas are a central part of Hopi life. After reading about them, how would you explain their importance to someone who has never heard of them?
4
The book shows how the Hopi people work to keep their ancient traditions alive while also living in the modern world. Can you think of any traditions in your own family or community that have been passed down for a long time?
