Rising Voices: Writings of Young Native Americans

I have been reading this to my adopted 8-year-old who is 1/4 Native American. Even though the book is directed at kids a little older she still enjoys it. Many of the items in the book reflect feelings of being different or feelings of isolation and/or discrimination. This applies to my daughter who is sensitive about being adopted, and she can see that many other children feel the way she does for many different reasons. The book also gives her valuable insight into her background.

"Rising Voices: Writings of Young Native Americans" is an anthology of pieces selected by Arlene Hirschfelder and Beverly R. Singer. There are more than 60 entries, most of them very short. About 140 pages long, the anthology encompasses both poetry and prose. Each piece is accompanied by a short blurb which tells about the author and, if applicable, describes the piece's prior publication history. The anthology has a wide scope. Its authors represent many parts of the United States: New Mexico, Alaska, Arizona, Utah, Montana, and other states. Also represented are many Indian nations: Coeur d'Alene, Inuit, Navajo, Cree, Pima, Zuni, etc. The pieces span over a century, from the 1880s to the 1990s. The book is divided into six thematic sections: "Identity," "Family," "Homelands," "Ritual and Ceremony," "Education," and "Harsh Realities." Some of my favorite selections are as follows. "My Poems," by Alan Barlow: a poem with particularly vivid imagery. "My Role as a Native American," by Kimberly Kai Rapada: an ironic prose memoir about receiving a role in a school production of "The Wizard of Oz." "As I Dance," by Autumn White Clay: an evocative poem that celebrates dance. "Misconceptions about the Aleutians," by Katie Mobeck: a feisty prose piece that challenges stereotypes about the author's people. Other topics covered include jewelry, food, prayer, role models, Native language, and the Indian relationship to the bison. A particularly important recurring theme is the tension that comes with living between the white and Indian worlds. As in other youth anthologies I have read, some of the pieces struck me as somewhat underdeveloped. But the overall strength of the collection is impressive. The voices in this book are at times satiric, ironic, and resistant, but also celebrate the joys and beauty of the Indian peoples, their lands, and their cultures. A solid choice for both classroom use and individual reading.

How often does a teacher find a book that is written totally on the level of their students? This is a little anthology of essays and poetry written by Native American students. It gives such insight into what these young people feel and think. The thoughts are contemporary but show us the heritage and its importance - but also the struggle it can cause. These selections range from third grade through high school. I consider it a must for teaching multi-cultural lit. The thoughts can be compared to what the students feel - especially when it comes to heritage. Some are sad - some defiant - some confident and joyful. These will get students thinking and discussing. A treasure!