Reno, Ginger. Many Ways of Being Native. Johnson Yazzie, Illus. Charlesbridge, 10/2026. [28]pp. Picture Book. Trade $17.99. 978-1-62354-675-5. GRADES Kindergarten–1. ADDITIONAL.
Hawk arrives in the night, whispering verses to sleeping children, presenting visions of what they can become. Although the text focuses on Indigenous children growing up to become scientists, singers, Olympians, authors, and more, the author’s note reflects that any child could be encouraged to pursue their dreams via this simple rhyming story, no matter what they look like or their background. Acrylic paint illustrations provide a dreamlike setting with slightly blurred people and places, providing few clear details and leaving the reader’s imagination to decide what the people truly look like. This may include brown, red, or blonde hair; light or medium brown skin, or other features entirely. Useful for discussions on growing up, stereotypes, types of people, and especially about the differences between Indigenous/Native people. The author is Cherokee and the author’s note describes the Hawk as an important symbol to the Cherokee people.
Joshua Rees—Daly City Public Library