Each November we celebrate the traditions, languages, and stories of Native American and Alaska Native communities during National Native American Heritage Month.
These picture books from our collection highlight stories of modern Native Americans.
Finding My Dance by Ria Thundercloud; Illustrated by Kalila J. FullerFinding my Dance is an inspiring picture book that describes how professional dancer Ria Thundercloud began dancing at age four. She first danced to the beat of drums alongside her family dressed in a handmade jingle dress at a powwow. Each summer her family traveled from state to state performing at Native American events. As a teenager, Ria exceled at dancing; learning about different forms and styles. Dancing helped her manage her shyness and feelings of being an outsider as the only Indigenous girl in her class. Dancing also gave her a new way to express herself and helped her cope when things were difficult.
