Library Corner

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For parents, grandparents, and those who care about children:

“All the Real Indians Died Off; and 20 Other Myths about Native Americans”, by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz – 970 Du

Unpacks many common myths and misconceptions about Native Americans including:

  • “Thanksgiving Proves the Indians Welcomed Pilgrims”
  • “Sports Mascots Honor Native Americans”
  • “Indian Casinos Make Them All Rich”
  • “Indians Are Naturally Predisposed to Alcohol”

“The Serviceberry; Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World”, by Robin
Wall Kimmerer — 581.6 Ki

Author Elizabeth Gilbert writes, Robin Wall Kimmerer is “a great teacher, and her words are a hymn of love to the world.” This book is an antidote to the broken relationships and misguided goals of our times, and a reminder that “hoarding won’t save us, all flourishing is mutual.”

“We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga”, by Traci Sorell — RE 975 So

The word otsaliheliga (oh-jah-LEE-hay-lee-gah) is used by members of the Cherokee Nation to express gratitude. Beginning in the fall with the new year and ending in summer, follow a full Cherokee year of celebrations and experiences.

“Notable Native People”, by Adrienne Keene — 920 Ke

An accessible and educational illustrated book profiling 50 notable American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian people. This powerful and informative collection also offers accessible primers on important Indigenous issues, from the legacy of colonialism and cultural appropriation to food sovereignty, land and water rights, and more.

“An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States”, by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz — 970.004 Du

With growing support for movements such as the campaign to abolish Columbus Day and replace it with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, this book is an essential resource providing historical threads that are crucial for understanding the present. Spanning more than four hundred years, Dunbar-Ortiz’s book radically reframes US history and explodes the silences that have haunted our national narrative.

“Jingle Dance”, by Cynthia Leitich Smith — J Sm

SJenna loves the tradition of jingle dancing that has been shared over generations in her family and intertribal community. She hopes to dance at the next powwow. But with the day quickly approaching, she has a problem—how will her dress sing if it has no jingles?

Questions/ comments are welcomed.  Please contact Lois Loeffler, chair of the Library Committee, at loisloeffler@gmail.com.