Indigenous Peoples Day Children’s Books
With Indigenous Peoples Day approaching, we are sharing an easy way to better understand Indigenous Peoples and their plight with your kids by reading a collection of children’s books. From biographies to stories inspired by real events, you and your kids will surely learn something new while reading these Indigenous Peoples Day children’s books that celebrate their traditions, struggles, and rarely spoken about stories.
A Native Story by Honest History Magazine
Read about the story of American Indians in this magazine, as told by Indigenous Peoples. From Indian boarding schools to powwows and horses, kids will learn about American history from the real stories of this group of people.
How the Stars Fell into the Sky: A Navajo Legend by Jerrie Oughton
This Navajo folktale recounts how the first woman tried to write the laws using the stars, only to be stopped by a coyote. Ages 3-9 years old.
The Legend of the Bluebonnet by Tomie dePaola
This story follows how a drought is threatening a tribe and how a Comanche girl sacrifices her most loved possession for her community. Ages 3-8 years old.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day by Bob Philips
Indigenous Peoples’ Day teaches kids to honor Native American people, their histories, and culture. Young readers will learn about this holiday and its multiple traditions. Ages 5-8 years old.
Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story by Kevin Novle Maillard
Told in a beautiful verse, Fry Bread tells the story of a modern Native American family, showing readers the importance of food, family, history, memory and community. Ages 2-6 years old.
We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga by Traci Sorell
Written by a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, this book features an ode to celebration, community, and seasonal changes. Kids will also love the glossary, which includes Cherokee syllabary. Ages 3-7 years old.
Sitting Bull: Lakota Warrior and Defender of His People by S.D Nelson
Learn about the story of Sitting Bull, one of the greatest Lakota/Sioux warriors and chiefs in this beautiful book. The book recounts his childhood to how he became a war chief, and later how to how he resisted theUnited States government’s attempt for more than 25 years to move onto the Lakota/Sioux reservation. Ages 8-12 years old.
All Around Us by Xelena Gonzalez
Follow along with this moving book that recounts the circle of life and nature as told by a Grandfather to his Granddaughter. Ages 3-7 years old.
Native Americans in History: A History Book for Kids by Jimmy Beason
Featuring the biographies of 15 Native Americans, this collection explores what native peoples have achieved and fought for. Some biographies include Maria Tallchief, Sitting Bull, Deb Haaland, Suzan Harjo, and much more. Ages 8-12 years old.
We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom
This powerful book follows a child who wants to protect what we all need: water. It follows a lyrical/rhythmic patter that is captivating and inspired by many Indigenous-led movements to protect water from harm and corruption. Ages 3-8 years old.
Explore Native American Cultures by Anita Yasuda
For an interactive crafting book, check out “Explore Native American Cultures! with 25 Great Projects.” This book features seven Native American cultural regions where readers can learn more about rituals, beliefs, and traditions. The book includes hands-on art activities, more information about Native American sign language, diagrams, and more. Ages 4-10 years old.
Deb Haaland: First Native American Cabinet Secretary by Matthew Martinez
Learn more about Deb Haaland, the first first Indigenous cabinet secretary in this riveting biography. Ages 9-14 years old
