At the end of November, thanksgiving will be celebrated by families across America. The holiday is about gratitude and also about honoring the native American traditions and histories. We hope these native American stories bring the knowledge and conversations to your tables.
The thanksgiving holiday tradition began in the 1600s as a harvest festival and was proclaimed as a national holiday by Lincoln after the American civil war. Colonial history is fraught with myths that do not showcase history and suppression of native people. Survival for the communities has meant resilience and storytelling to keep their cultures alive. These stories and books bring us closer to these native traditions and communities that have lasted and grown for thousands of years.
Native American Stories for Thanksgiving
1. Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story by Kevin Noble Maillard, Illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal: It’s a piece of history, a family tradition, and a symbol of survival. This beautifully written and illustrated book explains how something as simple as bread can carry generations of stories. It encourages young readers to think about what foods mean in their own lives. Do you have a dish that reminds you of home? This book might help you see it in a whole new way.
2. Birdsong by Julie Flett: When Katherena moves to a new town, she feels lonely until she meets Agnes, an elderly artist next door. Their bond grows over birds, art, and seasons. What makes this story special is how it shows that connection and creativity can bloom even when things feel unfamiliar. Julie Flett’s use of Cree words and soft art adds extra beauty to this warm tale.
3. The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare: In this survival story set in the 1700s, a boy named Matt learns to live in the wilderness with the help of Attean, a boy from the Beaver clan. Their friendship grows slowly, teaching both of them that understanding each other’s way of life can break down fear. This book is a great choice who want to explore the impact of colonialism and the value of respecting traditions.
Are there any other books that have helped you share history and traditions? Share them with us!
