Status
Available
Publication
Charlesbridge (2021), 40 pages
Library's review
"In this meticulously researched nonfiction picture book, Sibert honorees Sorell and Lessac team up once again to answer this question: What has happened to Native Nations and their citizens after the treaties with the U.S. government ended in 1871?
Lessac’s trademark colorful, folk-art–style
An emphatic, triumphant declaration: “WE ARE STILL HERE!” (further information, timeline, glossary, sources, author’s note) (Informational picture book. 7-10)" A Kirkus Starred Review, www.kirkusreviews.com
Lessac’s trademark colorful, folk-art–style
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illustrations show a Native American community school with a classroom of diverse students preparing for presentations at the Indigenous People’s Day assembly. Spread by spread, each child speaks, featured words and terms highlighting the journey Native Nations have taken to reclaim their land and rights. They show why Indigenous people say, “We are still here!” In the “Assimilation” presentation, Native children are dressed in militarylike uniforms, showing how U.S. leaders used schooling to destroy Native traditions. Dividing plots of tribal land for “Allottment” left much treaty land open for public sale. With “Termination” and “Relocation,” Native people were encouraged to leave their tribal lands and “act more like white people.” But Indigenous people say, “We are still here!” and the narrative arc turns to emphasize resilience. When activists speak up and organize, it strengthens tribal sovereignty. The tribes “protect and provide for future generations” by holding on to their traditional ceremonies, opening businesses to support their tribal members, and reviving their tribal languages. The illustrations, too, change their tenor, modulating from historical wrongs to emphasize contemporary strength, community, and joy.An emphatic, triumphant declaration: “WE ARE STILL HERE!” (further information, timeline, glossary, sources, author’s note) (Informational picture book. 7-10)" A Kirkus Starred Review, www.kirkusreviews.com
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Awards
South Dakota Children's Book Awards (Almost Made It! — 2024)
Great Lakes Great Books Award (Nominee — 2023)
Jane Addams Children's Book Award (Finalist — 2022)
Charlotte Award (Nominee — Middle School — 2023)
Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Medal (Honor Book — 2022)
Keystone to Reading Book Award (Nominee — 2023)
Social Justice Literature Award (Winner — 2022)
American Indian Youth Literature Award (Honor Book — Picture Book — 2022)
CCBC Choices (2022)
Notable Children's Book (2022)
Nerdy Book Award (Nonfiction Picture Books — 2021)
Picture This Recommendation List (Nonfiction — 2022)
Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List (Grades 3-5 — 2022)
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2021
ISBN
1623541921 / 9781623541927