Synergy: Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a celebration commemorating the histories and cultures of Native American peoples. In the United States, it is celebrated the second Monday in October.

Read the informational picture book for children, then learn more at the website:

WE ARE STILL HERE! NATIVE AMERICAN TRUTHS EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW written by Traci Sorell and illustrated by Frané Lessac uses the context of classroom presentations for Indigenous Peoples’ Day to share key concepts related to the history of indigenous people in the United States. Topics such as assimilation, allotment, termination, activism, self-determination, and sovereign resurgence are shared in easy-to-understand text and colorful illustrations. The book concludes with additional information, a timeline, glossary, sources, and an author’s note.

The Smithsonian’s NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN INDIAN website provides access to online resources and the Native Knowledge 360° project. To explore the resources, go to https://americanindian.si.edu/.

ARC courtesy of Charlesbridge.

Book Review: Groundhog's Dilemma

GROUNDHOG’S DILEMMA by Kristen Remenar is a beautifully illustrated picture book exploring the themes of peer pressure, friendship, and honesty.

Groundhog is concerned about disappointing his friends when he announces six more weeks of winter. After being approached by various animals with different perspectives, he decides that telling the truth is the best path.

The richly colored pages with large, attractive characters will appeal to children. The use of speech bubbles lend themselves to a read-aloud approach using varied voices.

Librarians will find this book to be a popular addition to their “Groundhog’s Day” holiday book collection for early elementary children. The themes of peer pressure, friendship, and honesty will ring true with young readers.

To learn more about the author, go to http://kristenremenar.com/.
To learn more about the illustrator, go to http://www.mattfaulkner.com/.

Published by Charlesbridge on December 1, 2015. ARC courtesy of the publisher.