Inclusive Literature

 

Bibliography:

Budhos, M. (2006). ASK ME NO QUESTIONS. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers. ISBN 978-1-4169-4920-6

Plot Summary:

Nadira and her family came to the United States from Bangladesh on tourist visas, and stayed long after the visas expired. After September 11, Nadira and her family seek asylum in Canada. However, once they arrive, things do not go as planned and Nadira’s father is detained. As a result, Nadira and her sister are told to go back and Nadira takes on the role of trying to reunite her family once again.

 

Critical Analysis: 

Being that the book was inspired by true events, many Muslim Americans living in the U.S. after September 11 can relate to the characters in the story because they are authentically portrayed and their experiences realistically reflect the experiences several Muslim Americans lived through. After her father is detained in the U.S. for having an expired visa, Nadira Hossain and her older sister, Aisha, are separated from their parents and have no choice but to go on with their lives as they try to seek a solution to reunite their family once again. Being that they are Muslim Americans on expired visas, they conceal their immigration status and their father’s detainment, primarily because many now considered Muslim Americans as being terrorists and dangerous people. Since the story is set shortly after September 11, the events that transpire in the story are consistent with what actually occurred in the U.S. at that time. Several cultural markers are brought out to make this point such as, the attitudes of several Americans toward Muslim Americans as well as the Homeland Security Patriot Act that required all men over 18 years old to register, especially if their country of origin was Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Pakistan, or Bangladesh.      

In regards to the Muslim American culture, the story is rich in cultural details with lots of words and phrases in their native language as well as references to holidays, attire, food, and objects like Ramadan, Allah, Pohela Boishakh (the Bengali New Year), saris, kurtas, polao, biryani, pooris, alu gobi, and moori. Through these details along with the experiences underscored in the story, readers are able to catch a glimpse of the lives of Muslim Americans. Furthermore, besides these cultural details, readers are able to reflect on their own perceptions of Muslim Americans and Middle Easterners to determine whether the media’s portrayals of people from these cultural groups have affected their perceptions. 

 

Reviews:

School Library Journal:  “This is an important facet of the American immigrant experience, worthy of wider attention.”

Kirkus Reviews: “A perceptive peek into the lives of foreigners on the fringe.”

Connections:

Gather other books featuring Muslim life:

DOES MY HEAD LOOK BIG IN THIS? ISBN 978-0439922333

TEN THINGS I HATE ABOUT ME. ISBN 978-0545050562

FROM SOMALIA, WITH LOVE. ISBN 978-1845078324

 

Bibliography:

Saenz, B. A. (2012).  ARISTOTLE AND DANTE DISCOVER THE SECRETS OF THE UNIVERSE. New York: Simon & Schuster. ISBN 978-1442408920

Plot Summary:

After Dante teaches Aristotle how to swim, the two 15-year-old boys develop a close and special friendship. Through their friendship, they deal with family, identity, and sexuality issues. At the end, Aristotle and Dante discover the truths about themselves and accept them.

 

Critical Analysis: 

This coming-of-age story takes place in El Paso, Texas in 1987. The two protagonists in this novel, Aristotle “Ari” Mendoza and Dante Quintana, are authentic, likable, and relatable characters. They are also accurately depicted because they face several identity issues that are common among teens their age. Even though Ari and Dante are Mexican American teenage boys, they each have distinct cultural experiences. For example, in contrast to Dante’s close relationship with his father who is a professor, Ari hardly speaks with his father who is a mailman and Vietnam veteran. Although Ari and Dante have different experiences, they do share similarities such as being able to speak a bit of Spanish, their grandparents being from Mexico, and their parents being able to speak Spanish and English fluently. Because this book features two Mexican American teens, the book is rich in cultural details of the Hispanic American culture such as, the seamless integration of Spanish words, phrases, and slang, common Spanish profanity, and of course, Mexican food references.

The story is full of details about the LGBTQ+ culture. For example, Ari’s aunt, Ophelia lives away from her family due to her being a lesbian and Ari’s older brother, Bernardo is in prison for killing a guy with his bare hands when he confused a transvestite for a prostitute. Moreover, the two main characters also face identity issues related to their sexual orientations and come to terms with them differently. Unlike Ari, Dante is more open to experimenting and finding his sexuality and because of it, Dante is beat up by four homophobic guys when they catch him kissing a boy in an alley. Contrary to Dante’s fear of disappointing his parents, both Ari’s parents and Dante’s parents accept and support Ari and Dante as being gay. The portrayals of finding one’s sexual identity as well as the differing reactions of others in this book are consistent within the LGBTQ+ culture and experienced by several in the community. 

 Reviews:

School Library Journal: “Authentic teen and Latino dialogue should make it a popular choice.”

Booklist: “those struggling with their own sexuality may find it to be a thought-provoking read.”

 Connections:

Gather other Stonewall Book Award books:

I’LL GIVE YOU THE SUN. ISBN 978-0803734968

THE PORCUPINE OF TRUTH. ISBN 978-1338032451

TWO BOYS KISSING. ISBN 978-0307931917

Bibliography:

Bradley, K. B (2015). THE WAR THAT SAVED MY LIFE. New York: Puffin Books. ISBN 978-0147510488

Plot Summary:

After being mistreated for years by her own mother, Ada, a ten year old girl with a clubfoot, sneaks out of her home with her younger brother, Jamie, to escape the dangers of World War II. After being placed in the hands of a woman named Susan Smith, Ada flourishes. With time, Susan ends up caring for the kids and does not want to let them go. However, the bond between her and the kids is tested in their war-torn country.

 Critical Analysis: 

In this historical fiction novel, the characters are authentic and reflect distinct cultural experiences. The protagonist of the story is Ada, a ten year old girl with a clubfoot. Although her physical disability impairs her ability to walk, she is not helpless and cares for herself and her little six year old brother, Jamie the best that she can. Ada is a strong character who displays courage when she secretly escapes from her cruel mother and evacuates the city with her little brother. However, the years of her mother’s physical and verbal abuse emotionally scar Ada to the point that she feels that she is unwanted and undeserving of kindness because of her clubfoot. Contrary to her mother’s beliefs, Ada becomes more than her disability. With Susan’s kindness and careful attention, Ada thrives and learns to walk, read, and ride a horse. She debunks the helpless stereotype that some people may have toward individuals with disabilities as well as her own self-doubting beliefs.

The story is set in the year 1939 in London, England during World War II. The story provides several details that are consistent with this historical time period such as bomb shelters, injured soldiers, German invasions, and Adolf Hitler. A clear description of Ada’s clubfoot is provided so that readers can understand the challenges Ada faces when she walks. Also, the story brings out that Ada’s foot could have been fixed at birth through surgery but her mother refused to pay for it. This book provides insight into the life of a person with a physical disability and invites readers to reflect on their own beliefs towards individuals with disabilities.

 Reviews:

Kirkus Reviews: “Ada’s voice is brisk and honest […] Set against a backdrop of war and sacrifice, Ada’s personal fight for freedom and ultimate triumph are cause for celebration.”

School Library Journal:  “There is much to like here – Ada’s engaging voice, the vivid setting, the humor, the heartbreak, but most of all the tenacious will to survive.”  

Connections:

Gather other books featuring characters with disabilities:

OUT OF MY MIND. ISBN 978-1416971719

EL DEAFO. ISBN 978-1419712173

FISH IN A TREE. ISBN 978-0399162596

 

Bibliography: 

 

Thomas, A., Reynolds, J., Yoon, N., Lu, M., & Brock, R. (2019). HOPE NATION: YA AUTHORS SHARE PERSONAL MOMENTS OF INSPIRATION. Penguin Books. ISBN 978-0525531661

Plot Summary:

Hope is a decision, but it is a hard one to recognize in the face of oppression, belittlement, alienation, and defeat. To help embolden hope, here is a powerhouse collection of essays and letters that speak directly to teens and all YA readers. Featuring Marie Lu, James Dashner, Gayle Forman, David Levithan, Julie Murphy, Jeff Zentner, Renee Ahdieh, and many more!

Critical Analysis:

This unique book appeals to readers of all different backgrounds, with 24 authors sharing their perspectives and encouragement, all aligning to one common theme: hope. From Dr. Brock talking about her family’s German history and the trials they overcame to Kate Hart, who discusses when she was stuck writing for a deadline. These stories are relatable to those whose families immigrated to the U.S. or those who have ever experienced writer’s block. Then there are perspectives like Alex London's, who attended an all boys school and had gender roles forced upon him.  People at his school decided to step against gender or societal expectations.  Alex did not get too close to people who freely expressed themselves because he did not want people to suspect that he was gay. It is stories like these that should be shared with the world. These are true stories that readers can relate to and maybe find the hope they need to persevere during difficult times. 

Reviews:

Kirkus Reviews: “Hope Nation brings together 24 top young adult authors who share personal essays about hope.  Their audience is teenagers, but this collection is a treasure trove of wisdom for older readers too. It achieves this with stories from a wide array of perspectives and diverse identities: the struggles of being Muslim in a post–9/11 world as described by Aisha Saeed, the complex constrictions of life in the closet made plain by Alex London, and the terrifying anxieties of being black in contemporary America by Nic Stone, among others. Even if these authors’ stories do not exactly mirror each of their readers’, together they open the door to an investigation of what hope means.”

Booklist: “This amazing outpouring of strength and honesty offers inspirational personal accounts for every reader who wonders what to do when everything seems impossible.”

Connection:

 

If you enjoyed this story you should check out the following books:

EASY PREY. ISBN 978-1419731907

FRESH INK: AN ANTHOLOGY. ISBN 978-1524766283

Asian Pacific American Literature

 

A. Bibliography 

Choi, Yangsook. (2001). THE NAME JAR. New York: Dragonfly Books. ISBN 978-0440417996

 

B.  Plot Summary

After students on a bus have a difficult time pronouncing her Korean name, Unhei decides to withhold her name from her new classmates until she chooses one. Her classmates try helping her find a name by placing name suggestions in her name jar. Eventually, Unhei chooses her name and teaches everybody its pronunciation.  

C.  Critical Analysis 

The protagonist in this story is Unhei, a young Korean American girl. She is a likable character who experiences several emotions and events that many immigrants face such as the mispronunciation of their names. Because of this, young readers who have unique names that are often mispronounced are able to relate with Unhei and her struggle with embracing her name. Moreover, recent young immigrants will be able to see themselves in the story since Unhei deals with identity issues as well as adjustment challenges. Unhei’s family and Mr. Kim, the local owner of a market, like Unhei, they are authentically depicted and they value Unhei’s name and its meaning as well as the Korean culture. The story takes place in contemporary time and in Brooklyn, New York. In regards to cultural markers, the story has some cultural details that are consistent with Korean culture. For example, kimchi, a Korean dish, is mentioned as well as the importance of keeping their culture despite living in America. In addition, other Korean words are used in the story such as, chinku which means friend and Unhei which means grace.Overall, the story celebrates diversity when Unhei’s mother states different is a good thing, Joey appreciates Unhei’s name and its meaning, and Unhei accepts her name and teaches its pronunciation to others.

The  illustrations are appealing and vibrantly colorful and accurately portray Korean culture. The use of shadows and shading as well as details in the illustrations make the story more realistic. Also, being that Brooklyn is a melting pot of cultures, the characters in the story reflect this diversity. They are illustrated as having different hair color, eye color, and skin tone.  All in all, I recommend this picture book because it sends a positive message to recent immigrants who are adjusting to new changes.

 

D. Review Excerpts 

The New York Times Book Review:  “Unhei’s reflection and inner strength are noteworthy; cultural details freshen the story, and Choi’s gleaming, expressive paintings are always a treasure.”

 

School Library Journal: “the bold, bright paintings that illustrate the story are realistic, warm, and appealing.”

 

E. Connections

You might enjoy these other books by Yangsook Choi:

THE SUN GIRL AND THE MOON BOY: A KOREAN FOLKTALE. ISBN 978-0679883869

PEACH HEAVEN. ISBN 978-0374357610

BEHIND THE MASK. ISBN 978-0374305222

 

A. Bibliography 

Lin, Grace. (2006). THE YEAR OF THE DOG. New York: Little, Brown and Company.  ISBN 978-0316060028

 

B.  Plot Summary

Pacy, a young Chinese American and Taiwanese American, is determined in finding herself during the Year of the Dog. As the year goes by, Pacy, who is known at school as Grace, tries to find new talents that will help her decide which career to pursue in the future. Throughout the process, Pacy tries understanding two cultures and then eventually finds her true purpose for her life.

C.  Critical Analysis 

In this young coming-of-age memoir, the characters in the story are authentically portrayed as having distinct cultural experiences. For example, although Pacy and Melody are both Taiwanese American, they do not have the same experiences. Pacy eats different foods and cannot speak Taiwanese or Chinese. Because of this, Pacy is seen by others as being too Americanized and is called a twinkie, yellow on the outside and white on the inside. Being that Pacy is part of the minority in her school, Pacy interacts with characters of other cultures, but especially with her best friend Becky Williams. It is through her interactions with people from other cultures that she realizes that there are not a lot of Chinese people in movies, plays, and books and that she does not exactly fit in with one culture. According to Pacy, to Americans she is too Chinese and to Chinese she is too American. She eventually realizes that she is both Chinese American and Taiwanese American.

 

Because the book is a semi-autobiographical story, the story is set in the U.S. in historical time when the author was a young child. As for cultural markers, the story is rich in cultural details. The flashbacks of her mother’s memories and stories provide readers with further insight into Taiwanese culture. Moreover, the story is full of Taiwanese and Chinese traditions and words such as, the Chinese New Year, “Gong xi-gong xi! Xin-nian kuai le!,” Hong bao, Red Egg Party, “Ja-ba, bei?”, Chinese symbols on the neck to ease pain, and the camp for Taiwanese-American Convention. In addition, certain foods and meals are mentioned like fried dumplings, New Year’s candy, egg foo young, and weird looking Chinese vegetables. It is these unique vegetables that inspire Pacy to write an award-winning book called The Ugly Vegetables. The illustrations are black and white cartoon style drawings. They are appealing caricatures and allow readers to visualize the story. I recommend this book because it is entertaining and leaves readers wanting to read more books by Grace Lin.

 

D. Review Excerpts 

Kirkus Reviews: “This comfortable first-person story will be a treat for Asian-American girls looking to see themselves in their reading, but also for any reader who enjoys stories of friendship and family life.”

The Horn Book:  “Entertaining and often illuminating.”

Publishers Weekly: “Lin creates an endearing protagonist, realistically dealing with universal emotions and situations. Girls everywhere, but especially those in the Asian-American community, will find much to embrace here.”

E. Connections

You might enjoy these other books by Grace Lin:

 

THE YEAR OF THE RAT. ISBN 978-0316033619

 

DUMPLING DAYS. ISBN 978-0316125895

 

WHERE THE MOUNTAIN MEETS THE MOON. ISBN 978-0316038638

 

 

 

 

 

A. Bibliography 

Say, Allen. (2011). DRAWING FROM MEMORY. New York: Scholastic Press. ISBN 978-0545176866

 

B.  Plot Summary

In this memoir, Allen Say narrates his childhood path on becoming an artist. Even though some of his family members did not approve of Allen’s artistic aspirations, Allen continued to pursue his dream and became an apprentice of Noro Shinpei, one of Japan’s famous artists. With his sensei’s guidance, Allen flourished as an artist and to this day, he continues to draw and paint.

C.  Critical Analysis 

Since the story is part memoir, the characters in the story are authentic and each have distinct cultural experiences. The author provides enough information about his family and friends as well as the Japanese culture so that readers can perceive the influences that shaped Allen’s life. The setting of the story is consistent with historical time and accurately represents the characters’ environment. When Allen was four years old, World War II began in Japan. Due to the bombs that fell on his hometown, like most families, Allen’s family was torn apart. However, four years after the war, Allen and his family were reunited with his father. The story is rich in cultural details and is consistent with Japanese culture. Several cities in Japan are mentioned in the story as well as several Japanese words and symbols such as, sensei, kamishibai, and dojo. Furthermore, some characters’ worldviews, like Allen’s father and grandmother, are commonly held among Japanese families.

The is a mixture of illustration types such as, watercolor paintings, full color drawings, black and white sketches, maps, vintage photographs, and original cartoons and comics that resemble a graphic novel. All of these lively and appealing illustrations provide texture and enhance the story, and accurately portray Japanese culture. With these illustrations, readers are able to gain a sense of understanding as the author chronicles the events in his life that led him to becoming a successful artist. I recommend this book because it is engaging and inspires readers to seek their dreams despite obstacles.

D. Review Excerpts 

School Library Journal:  “This ‘journey through memories’ uses a scrapbook format featuring the author’s photographs, sketches, drawings, and comic-style panels. Say shares his love of comics and the important influence they have in his art. The book is a poignant tribute to his mentor, Japanese cartoonist Noro Shinpei.”

Kirkus Reviews: “Aesthetically superb; this will fascinate comics readers and budding artists while creating new Say fans.”

 

E. Connections

More books you might enjoy by Allen Say:

THE INKER’S SHADOW. ISBN 978-0545437769

TEA WITH MILK. ISBN 978-0547237473

GRANDFATHER’S JOURNEY. ISBN 978-0547076805

A. Bibliography 

Park, Linda Sue. (2000). THE KITE FIGHTERS. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN 978-0395940419

 

B.  Plot Summary

Young-Sup is a strong kite flier. His older brother Kee-Sup can design a kite out of paper and wood that is fit for a king. Together they make a strong pair. They can't wait to showcase their talent at the next New Year kite competition. One problem stands in their way- the centuries-old tradition requiring the younger brother to stand behind his older brother. Young-Sup knows he is better than his older brother, but can they convince their father of this?

C.  Critical Analysis 

The Kite Fighters is set  in Seoul, Korea in 1473. Two young brothers, Kee-sup and Young-sup,live under the Confucion rule which dictates filial law (how a child shows respect to his parents). The oldest brother and son, Kee-sup, is heir to all of the privileges and responsibilities of the “House of Lee”. It is Young-sup’s duty to help his brother regardless of what he wants or desires.

Kee-sup’s capping ceremony occurs at the beginning of the kite season. This is an important rite in Korean culture. The family dresses in their finest clothes, scrolls are hung, and they have a celebration feast. During the capping ceremony, Kee-sup’s hair was “twisted upward and around itself until it formed a smooth knot on the top of his head”. A plain narrow ribbon is tied around the chin. Formal bows are made, and the ceremony concludes with the shedding of his bright jacket and the donning of “the white clothes of adulthood”. Once a boy has his capping ceremony he is treated like an adult. Young-sup struggles with treating him like an adult rather than his oldest brother.

Kee-sup can make exquisite kites, but he is not very good at flying them. Young-sup cannot make a kite, but he can ‘feel’ the movement of the kite and can always get one to fly. The annual kite fighting contest is approaching, and Young-sup wants to participate, but it is tradition for the eldest son to represent the family. Young-sup will have to obey the traditions and let his brother compete if that is what he wants.

After earning a new reel for his kite, Young-sup and Kee-sup go out to the hillside to fly their tiger kites. It is here they cross paths with the King, who is just eleven-years-old. (“The custom and law of the land dictated that his son become King in his place. That was the natural order of things.” When His Majesty the King died suddenly his son was only eight years old.) The King had seen the tiger kites flying, and he wanted to see who was flying them. The King asks Kee-sup to make him a “King’s kite”. He wanted one that would “fly like Young-sup’s tiger”.

Kee-sup’s father freed him of his studies for as long as it took him to build the kite. After several attempts they ask their father for advice, and he tells them to make a dragon kite. The dragon is the “country’s symbol for His Majesty”. Kee-sup builds a beautiful dragon kite, but he is not quite satisfied with it. He refuses to cut the paper for several days and Young-sup argues with him because he thinks it is rude to keep the King waiting.

While Kee-sup was working on the kite, Young-sup went out to the hill to fly his own kite. The King comes out to meet him many times, and they become friends. Young-sup teaches the King how to fly a kite, and he decides he wants to enter the contest at the festival, but he knows he cannot be the one to compete because no one would try against him. He wants Young-sup to fly for him. When the boys tell their father of the King’s request he says that Kee-sup will be the flyer because he is the oldest. It was the eldest son who was expected to bring honor to the family. Kee-sup knows that Young-sup is the better flyer, and he wants to win for the king, so he goes against tradition and asks his father to allow Young-sup to enter the contest in his place. He agrees, but only because it was for the king.

Kee-sup and Young-sup work together to ensure Young-sup has the best chance at winning the contest. After Young-sup gets cut from a small piece of a broken jar, Kee-sup gets an idea. He makes a “heavy mixture of rice paste and powdered pottery” to add to the kite string to make it easy to cut other lines. It is because of this mixture and Young-sup’s kite-flying abilities that he is able to win the contest for the King.

D. Review Excerpts 

School Library Journal:  "With ease and grace, Park brings these long-ago children to life." 

Booklist: “An author's note authenticates some historical points in the fictional story, which feels consistently well-grounded in its time and place.”

E. Connections

More books you might enjoy by Linda Sue Park:

 

 A SINGLE SHARD ISBN 978-0547534268

WHEN MY NAME WAS KEOKO ISBN 978-0440419440

SEESAW GIRL ISBN 978-0547248882

 

Native American Literature

 

 

A. Bibliography

Alexie, S., & Forney, E. (2007). THE ABSOLUTELY TRUE DIARY OF A PART-TIME INDIAN. New York Little: Brown & Company. ISBN 978-0316013697

 

B.  Plot Summary

Arnold Spirit, a 14-year-old Spokane Indian who goes by the name of Junior, leaves the impoverished Wellpinit reservation in order to acquire a good education and play basketball at Reardan, a rich, all-white and racist school located 22 miles away from the rez. By doing so, his long-time friendship with Rowdy is shaken and he is considered a traitor by the majority in the reservation. His troubles do not end there as Junior is also mistreated at Reardan. Through his cartoons, Junior tries to balance both worlds: the Native American world and the white world.

 

 

C.  Critical Analysis

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is a semi-autobiographical literary piece that leaves readers wanting more. Arnold Spirit, a young teenage Spokane Indian who is best known as Junior, is authentically and realistically portrayed. He is a funny, loveable and memorable character who narrates his distinct cultural experiences with humor and frankness. Because Junior is a nerdy misfit with certain health issues who is often bullied, readers cannot help but root for this fearless and endearing underdog. Using a first person point of view, Junior’s voice accurately reflects the portrayal of a teenager, which instantly draws young adults in. Junior’s interactions with white people and other Native Americans range from friendly to harsh. With the exemption of those who mistreat Junior, such as, the extremely racist White characters in Reardan and the unfriendly Native Americans, the majority of the characters are likable and their diverse opinions are consistent with those held during the 1980s in Wellpinit, Washington.

This book is rich in cultural details regarding the Spokane Indian culture. Junior mentions the Indian Health Service, the casinos in the reservation, and the Unofficial and Unwritten Spokane Indian Rules of Fisticuffs. In addition to this, Junior brings out the injustices that many Spokane Indians endure such as, the impoverished conditions in the reservation, the old and outdated textbooks used in their classes, and the unequal number of funerals attributed to alcohol when compared to the white people in Reardan. The story also accurately depicts the custom of the powwow celebration in the Spokane reservation in that it includes singing, dancing, and storytelling. Moreover, Junior mentions the stereotypical views some people have toward Native Americans such as, that Native Americans feel half the pain of whites. Junior brings to light other non-tolerant views toward Native Americans like the fact that Mr. P. was told to kill the Native American culture and that some white people in Montana living in a reservation wanted to secede from the reservation.

The illustrations are simple pencil sketches. They are entertaining and enhance the story. The diary lookalike sketches seem like they were really drawn by Junior. Some illustrations are unpolished scribbles and cartoons that seem to have been drawn on scratch paper and later taped in the diary; while other illustrations are more focused portraits with details that respect the individual being drawn. The illustrations make the story come alive and provide readers with unique insight into Junior’s mind.

D. Review Excerpts

Kirkus Reviews: “Alexie nimbly blends sharp wit with unapologetic emotion . . . Junior’s keen cartoons sprinkle the pages as his fluid narration deftly mingles raw feeling with funny, sardonic insight.”

 

Booklist: “Alexie’s humor and prose are easygoing and well suited to his young audience.”

E. Connections

You might like these books by Sherman Alexie:

TEN LITTLE INDIANS. ISBN 978-0802141170

WAR DANCES. ISBN 978-0802144898

THUNDER BOY JR. ISBN 978-0316013727

 

 

 

A. Bibliography

Bruchac, J., & Locker, T. (1996). BETWEEN EARTH & SKY: LEGENDS OF NATIVE AMERICAN SACRED PLACES. New York: Voyager Books. ISBN 978-0152020620

 

B.  Plot Summary

In this book, Joseph Bruchac, an Abenaki Indian, narrates ten legends of Native American sacred places of the following tribes: Wampanoag, Seneca, Navajo, Cherokee, Papago, Hopewell, Cheyenne, Hopi, Walapai, and Abenaki. To help readers, there is an “About this Book” section, a map of the U.S. with geographical markers indicating the location of the original Native nations, and a pronunciation guide. 

 

C.  Critical Analysis 

The two main characters in this story are Little Turtle and his uncle Old Bear, two Delaware Indians who discuss the legends of other Native American tribes. The other characters in this book are mentioned briefly in the legend they are depicted. However, the legends and the characters in the legend do reflect the distinct cultural experiences of the specific Native nation highlighted. As for the setting in the book, the setting changes for each legend because each legend is set in a different geographical location with differing environments. The illustration that goes with the legend is consistent with the setting of the geographical region where the Native American tribe is located.The book is rich in cultural details and are consistent with the ten specific cultures mentioned in the book: Wampanoag, Seneca, Navajo, Cherokee, Papago, Hopewell, Cheyenne, Hopi, Walapai, and Abenaki. Each legend is unique and accurately represents the sacred places of the ten Native American tribes in the book.

The illustrations of the landscapes are captivating and are extremely detailed that they resemble photographs taken by a professional photographer. Thomas Locker’s perfect blend of watercolors make the paintings so realistic that readers feel like they are actually at the sacred places. The U.S. map illustration is also helpful in that it accurately locates the Native American tribes as well as the ten sacred places mentioned in the book.

D. Review Excerpts

School Library Journal:  “Bruchac writes in language that is dignified and almost poetic in its simplicity.”

Booklist: “Offers readers new perspectives on the natural world and an excellent curricular connection. A solid addition for school and public libraries.”

E. Connections

Check out these other books by Joseph Bruchac:

THE EARTH UNDER SKY BEAR’S FEET. ISBN 978-0698116474

CRAZY HORSE’S VISION. ISBN 978-1584302827

THIRTEEN MOONS ON TURTLE’S BACK: A NATIVE AMERICAN YEAR OF MOONS. ISBN 978-0698115842

 

 

A. Bibliography

Sneve, V. D. H., & Beier, E. (2019). THE CHRISTMAS COAT: MEMORIES OF MY SIOUX CHILDHOOD. South Dakota Historical Society Press. ISBN 978-0823421343

 

B.  Plot Summary

Virginia's coat is too small and hardly protects her from the frigid South Dakota winter. As Christmas approaches, all the children on the Sioux reservation look forward to receiving boxes full of clothing sent by congregations in the East. Virginia spots a beautiful gray fur coat but holds back tears as it is claimed by one of her classmates. Later, Virginia can't believe what Mama brings home. Based on an event from the author's childhood, this picture book captures the true spirit of Christmas.

 

C.  Critical Analysis 

The Christmas Coat: Memories of My Sioux Childhood is a beautiful and heartfelt memoir of a Christmas memory. Based on Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve’s childhood growing up on the Rosebud Sioux Reservation in South Dakota, the story is authentic and rich in detail of the Sioux tribe. Characters’ last names such as ‘Buffalo,’ ‘High Bear,’ and ‘Driving Hawk’ are representative of the Native American culture. Reference to foods during the Christmas Eve meal such as corn soup, fry bread, and wojape, a chokecherry pudding, provide cultural markers for the story as well.

 

Virginia and her family live on the reservation and only have clothes that are donated in ‘Theast,’ which means ‘the east,’ boxes. Her family along with all of the other families on the reservation wait twice a year for these boxes to be delivered to the village. When the boxes arrive, Virginia’s family lets others in the village pick first, saying, “the others need it more than we do.” Virginia wishes for a new winter coat, “one that wasn’t tight across her chest and that was long enough.” Virginia’s father is the Episcopal priest in their village. Christmas activities mentioned are a combination of Sioux and western culture. In the Christmas Eve play, the three wise men dawn Sioux headdresses. The author states, “they wore headdresses that only the wise leaders and elders of the tribe could wear.”

 

Ellen Beier’s watercolor illustrations provide wonderful details. Characters’ faces are full of expression and emotion. Hair and skin tones are representative of the Sioux people. Clothing is accurate for the time period. The harshness of the winter wind, and the warm, festive Christmas Eve play are both beautifully illustrated.

 

D. Review Excerpts

Horn Book Guide: With its authentic portrait of a Sioux childhood and Christmas traditions (captured in watercolor and gouache illustrations) and its eventual happy ending, this is a quiet but affecting picture book.

 

Kirkus Reviews: This straightforward, heartfelt reminiscence recalls a Christmas season from the author's childhood on the Rosebud Sioux Reservation in South Dakota, a time when she needed a new winter coat and her younger brother needed snow boots.

 

E. Connections

Check out these other books:

DePaola, T. THE LEGEND OF THE POINSETTIA. ISBN 978-0329750954.

 

Warren, A. PIONEER GIRL: A TRUE STORY OF GROWING UP ON THE PRAIRIE. ISBN 978-0803225268.

 

Williams, V. B.  A CHAIR FOR MY MOTHER. ISBN 978-0688009144.

 

 

 

 

 

 

A. Bibliography

Erdrich, L. (1999). THE BIRCHBARK HOUSE. New York: Hyperion. ISBN: 0786822414

 

B.  Plot Summary

Louise Erdrich’s The Birchbark House is a tale of love, loss, and growing up, for Omakayas, a 19th century Objibwa, or Anishinabe girl, living near Lake Superior. It is also a recounting of the ways of the Anishinabeg at the dawn of Western expansion. The adventures of Omakyas, her family and her people will delight middle school age readers who will identify with Omakayas and her family.

 

C.  Critical Analysis 

Erdrich’s The Birchbark House is a beautiful weaving of the literary and the historical, following the life of 7-year-old Omakayas in the year 1847. Omakayas lives a life familiar to many children. She has an older sister whom she envies for her beauty and grace, a younger brother whom she despises for his selfishness and greed, and a baby brother whom she adores for his sweetness and innocence. Her mother is firm, yet loving. Her grandmother, or nokomis, is kind and wise. Her father is often away on business, trapping to provide skins for the White traders. She dislikes certain chores, particularly the scraping of hides to make leather, and looking after her brothers. These connections make Omakayas relatable to 21st century children.

 

The Birchbark House also evokes the theme of the circle or cycle, common to many Native Americans. The chapters are grouped into books, each named for one of the Anishinabe seasons. The family travels from their winter quarters where they ice fish and survive the harsh winter, to the sap harvest when the maple trees thaw, to the rice harvesting grounds, and to the birchbark house where they hunt, gather berries, prepare hides, and prepare foods for winter storage. The story spans a year in Omakaya’s life, beginning and ending at the birchbark house that her family builds anew each spring; and though the clan has suffered loss, there is also joy, the return of one lost, and the renewal of the spring season.

 

Ojibwa, or Anishinabe words are placed throughout the story, both with English translations and with contextual clues. An author’s note explains the Ojibwa language, and a glossary and pronunciation guide follows the story. Some words, such as the greeting, ahneen, are used often enough to remember. Other words and phrases will have the reader flipping frequently to the glossary.

 

Small pencil drawings by the author dot the story, adding interest, illuminating Omakayas’ encounters with bears, her parents’ makazins, members of her family and more. The drawings are crisp and clean with just enough detail. The faces are varied but distinctly Native in shape and coloring. The depiction of clothing, tools, and living quarters is reflective of the narrative's description.

 

An interesting facet of The Birchbark House is its varied perspective on Western expansion. Though the story is told via the young Ojibwa girl, it is clear that her family is not completely opposed to the Whites, or chimookoman. Omakayas’ father is part White. He regularly trades with the Whites and takes pride in his prowess at chess, the White man's game. The clan’s Old Tallow has a disdain for the Whites, yet she too has adapted somewhat to the White ways, living as Omakayas’ family, in a cabin during the winter. Mother sews metal thimbles to her daughter’s dress; father buys calico, velvet and beads from the fur traders. They harbor no ill will against the missionaries, and note that they were helpful in caring for Ojibwa with smallpox. At the same time, they note the European Americans' insatiable hunger for land and the eventual conflict that will arise from the incessant push Westward. This multifaceted view adds to the richness and realism of the book.

 

D. Review Excerpts

Publishers Weekly: “Into her lyrical narrative, Erdrich weaves numerous Ojibwa words, effectively placing them in context to convey their meanings. Readers will want to follow this family for many seasons to come.”

 

School Library Journal: “While this title will not appeal to fans of fast-paced action, readers who enjoy a variety of deftly drawn characters, relationships that ring true, and fascinating details about the daily life of the Ojibwa will be attracted to this endearing and irrepressible girl.”

 

 

E. Connections

If you enjoyed this book, check out the other books in this series by Edrich:

THE GAME OF SILENCE. ISBN: 978-0756970253

THE PORCUPINE YEAR. ISBN: 978-0060297879

CHICKADEE. ISBN: 978-0060577902

MAKOONS. ISBN: 978-0060577933