
A parent would reach for this book when they want to move beyond stereotypical Thanksgiving myths and help their child understand the continuous, living history of Indigenous peoples. It is perfect for those moments when a child asks about the history of the land they live on or after they have learned an oversimplified version of Native American history in school. The book frames history through the lens of sovereignty and resilience, showing that Native nations are not people of the past, but active participants in the present day. Through a series of school presentations, the narrative explores heavy themes like forced relocation and boarding schools, but balances them with the strength of tribal activism and cultural revitalization. It is an essential choice for families looking to foster a sense of justice, historical truth, and respect for cultural identity in children aged 6 to 10.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewReferences to children being taken from families to attend boarding schools.
The book deals directly with systemic injustice, including the forced removal of children to boarding schools and the termination of tribal recognition. The approach is factual and secular, emphasizing the reality of these events while maintaining a hopeful, empowered resolution focused on survival and resurgence.
An 8-year-old who is starting to question the 'official' history books or a child who belongs to an Indigenous community and needs to see their people's modern political and cultural agency reflected on the page.
Parents should be prepared to discuss what 'sovereignty' means. The back matter includes a helpful glossary and timeline that parents should skim first to help answer deeper questions about specific laws and treaties mentioned. A parent might notice their child asking, 'Where did the Native people go?' or repeating a stereotype like 'Native Americans only lived in the past.'
Younger children (6-7) will connect with the recurring 'We Are Still Here!' refrain and the vibrant illustrations of modern kids. Older children (9-10) will grasp the political implications of land rights and the importance of self-governance.
Unlike many books that stop at the 19th century, this book bridge the gap between historical policy and modern-day tribal life, focusing specifically on the concept of sovereign rights.
Framed as a series of classroom presentations for Indigenous Peoples' Day, the book covers 12 key historical and contemporary topics affecting Native nations. Each spread addresses a specific concept: such as the Allotment Act, boarding schools, tribal sovereignty, and the Indian Self-Determination Act: and concludes with the powerful refrain, We Are Still Here!
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.