Notable Native People: 50 Indigenous Leaders, Dreamers, and Changemakers from Past and Present

This gorgeously illustrated book shares over 50 Indigenous leaders, artists, activists, and scientists from past to present. Sprinkled through the book are short essays on colonialism, resources on how to research whose land you are on, and current issues in the Indigenous community. I learned that many Native names that I’m used to hearing are actually names given to Indigenous peoples by white colonizers. I learned about how many Indigenous people have zealously worked to save their languages that the U.S. government tried to torture out of school aged Native children in residential schools. I learned about seed sovereignty activists such as Rowen White, and Indigenous food systems being kept alive by farmers and food sovereignty advocates such as Chris Newman. I learned about cultural keepers and artists such as Geo Soctomah Neptune, a non binary artist who is both basketmaker and a language revitalization worker. I learned about educators and sculptors and craftsman who contributed so much to American art such as Mabel Pike, Edmonia Lewis, and Maria Tallchief. This book is a beautiful beginning of sharing notable Indigenous people who have and are presently making a difference to our world. Native people matter and theses stories not only offer representation, but gives the reader a deeper understanding of the complexity, diversity, and beauty of Indigenous culture. This book would be an exceptional addition to any library or school. Many of the Indigenous activists are also on social media which has led me to more books and resources to learn about Indigenous people and the land we now call America. This book is not only packed with information is is stunning. The illustrations by Ciara Sana make this book worthy of a coffee table art piece. So excited that my local library carry’s this beautiful book. - Toni ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ For ages 10+