We Are Still Here! by Traci Sorell, and Frane Lessac - ESSENTIAL

We Are Still Here! Native American Truths Everyone Should Know by Traci Sorell, illustrated by Frane Lessac. PICTURE BOOK, NON-FICTION Charlesbridge, 2021. $18. 9781623541927 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE   

EL, MS - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

The Native Nations Community School is having Indigenous Peoples' Day! 12 of the children have prepared presentations on topics including Assimilation, Termination, Indian Child Welfare & Education, Language Revival and Tribal Activism. After each short description, the phrase "We are still here!" is repeated. 

Frané Lessac's illustrations are amazing.  Historically and culturally accurate, set the stage for introductions to these important topics.  Traci Sorell has beautifully explained these issues in a simple and straightforward way. Older students can use the information as a springboard to choose a topic for further research, or as an empathy builder. It can also be used in a classroom as part of a unit on Native Nations. Includes more information on each topic that includes an explanation of the scene in the illustration, a glossary, sources, an author's note, and a time line from 1870 (when the US ended treaty making with the Native Nations) to 2007. This is an important book to add to your library. I am recommending it to my Utah Studies and American History teachers as a resource as well.

Lisa Librarian