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We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga
2019 Sibert Honor Book2019 Orbis Pictus Honor BookNPR's Guide To 2018’s Great Reads2018 Book Launch Award (SCBWI)Kirkus Reviews Best Books of 2018School Library Journal Best Books of 20182018 JLG selection2019 Reading the West Picture Book AwardThe Cherokee community is grateful for blessings and challenges that each season brings. This is modern Native American life as told by an enrolled citizen of the Cherokee Nation.The word otsaliheliga (oh-jah-LEE-hay-lee-gah) is used by members of the Cherokee Nation to express gratitude. Beginning in the fall with the new year and ending in summer, follow a full Cherokee year of celebrations and experiences. Written by a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, this look at one group of Native Americans is appended with a glossary and the complete Cherokee syllabary, originally created by Sequoyah."A gracious, warm, and loving celebration of community and gratitude"—Kirkus Reviews STARRED REVIEW"The book underscores the importance of traditions and carrying on a Cherokee way of life"—Horn Book STARRED REVIEW"This informative and authentic introduction to a thriving ancestral and ceremonial way of life is perfect for holiday and family sharing"—School Library Journal STARRED REVIEW"An elegant representation"—Shelf Awareness STARRED REVIEW
32 pages, ebook
First published September 4, 2018
About the author
Traci Sorell
22 books118 followersBest-selling author and Cherokee Nation citizen Traci Sorell writes inclusive, award-winning fiction and nonfiction in a variety of formats for young people. In 2023, she shares Contenders: Two Native Baseball Players, One World Series, a Kirkus Reviews starred nonfiction picture book biography illustrated by Arigon Starr, and Mascot, a middle grade fiction novel-in-verse co-authored with Charles Waters. Traci is a two-time Sibert Medal and Orbis Pictus honoree for her nonfiction work. Her first five books have received awards from the American Indian Library Association. Learn more at www.tracisorell.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 602 reviews
November 30, 2018
Otsaliheliga is the Cherokee word for “we are grateful,” which the tribe says throughout the year as a way of giving thanks for their blessings, while not ignoring the many struggles they have been through. Traci Sorell, a member of the Cherokee nation, creates a dual language picture book—Cherokee and English-- about the different ways the Cherokee people express gratitude "throughout the year and across the seasons.” The art from Frané Lessac
is wonderful, colorful.
The book for most readers will be usefully informative, including a glossary of terms and cultural concepts, an author’s note on all the research she did, and a note about the Cherokee written syllabary, which is really interesting. A lovely and useful book that makes me sad that such a beautiful and culturally-affirming approach to language and culture could not have been considered a century ago by whites claiming their land.
is wonderful, colorful.
The book for most readers will be usefully informative, including a glossary of terms and cultural concepts, an author’s note on all the research she did, and a note about the Cherokee written syllabary, which is really interesting. A lovely and useful book that makes me sad that such a beautiful and culturally-affirming approach to language and culture could not have been considered a century ago by whites claiming their land.
January 9, 2019
4-1/2 stars – ½ star off because there is no story that flows and I would have enjoyed the book more had there been one.
The illustrations are really special. They’re gorgeous and detailed with lots to view. I adore the art!
I learned a lot about the modern Cherokee Nation. I found it interesting that, like Jewish people, they celebrate New Year in the autumn. It makes sense to me.
There isn’t exactly a story here. The repetition will probably appeal to children though, and I did appreciate how much lifestyle information was able to be included, and loved how it showed women, men, children each participating in life and the community in a variety of ways.
I found the whole project touching, and the narrative is one that’s sorely needed for learning about modern Native Americans.
The additional information at the end greatly elevates the quality of the book. I appreciated the definitions list, the author’s note, the Cherokee syllabary with history and pronunciation. I think readers of all ages can get a lot out of those few final pages. I was also touched by the author’s and illustrator’s dedications and interested in their bios.
Highly recommended for readers looking for children’s picture books about gratitude, modern Native Americans/the Cherokee Nation, the seasons, written & oral languages, and beautiful illustrations.
The illustrations are really special. They’re gorgeous and detailed with lots to view. I adore the art!
I learned a lot about the modern Cherokee Nation. I found it interesting that, like Jewish people, they celebrate New Year in the autumn. It makes sense to me.
There isn’t exactly a story here. The repetition will probably appeal to children though, and I did appreciate how much lifestyle information was able to be included, and loved how it showed women, men, children each participating in life and the community in a variety of ways.
I found the whole project touching, and the narrative is one that’s sorely needed for learning about modern Native Americans.
The additional information at the end greatly elevates the quality of the book. I appreciated the definitions list, the author’s note, the Cherokee syllabary with history and pronunciation. I think readers of all ages can get a lot out of those few final pages. I was also touched by the author’s and illustrator’s dedications and interested in their bios.
Highly recommended for readers looking for children’s picture books about gratitude, modern Native Americans/the Cherokee Nation, the seasons, written & oral languages, and beautiful illustrations.
September 29, 2024
Traci Sorell has with her We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga created a truly glowing, moving and yes indeed brightly sparkling homage to the Cherokee Nation (of which she is a member), a simple yet at the same time deeply profound narrative that above all, that first and foremost presents and depicts the modern Cherokee not as exotic, not as the "other" but simply, sweetly, descriptively as individuals, as people going about their day to day business, their routines (like everyone tends to do), being appreciative of, being grateful for life's many blessings (as well as its struggles and challenges), whilst of course and naturally also at the same time celebrating traditional Cherokee culture, spirituality, religion. An in all ways wonderful and evocative marriage of Traci Sorell's loving and tender text and Frané Lessac's descriptively colourful, imaginative accompanying images is We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga, with the fact that the included Cherokee words are penned in both English lettering and Cherokee syllabics being the absolute icing on the cake for me, and a very much appreciated bonus (although in the Kindle version of We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga, the back material, the supplemental details, they are sadly and frustratingly presented in such a tiny and minuscule font size that I have had major issues being able to read this without a very strong magnifying glass).
And therefore, while I will definitely and gladly rank We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga with a more than well deserved and shining five stars, I do in fact NOT recommend the Kindle, I do NOT recommend the e-book edition of We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga (because as an e-book, We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga is just not very reader and user friendly regrading the to and for me oh so essential and interesting information at the end of the book, the definitions, the author's note and especially and in particular, the legend for the Cherokee syllabary, which is really and truly nigh illegible on the Kindle).
Oh and for ANYONE trying to get We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga banned, you are a moron at best and that is frankly being kind.
And therefore, while I will definitely and gladly rank We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga with a more than well deserved and shining five stars, I do in fact NOT recommend the Kindle, I do NOT recommend the e-book edition of We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga (because as an e-book, We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga is just not very reader and user friendly regrading the to and for me oh so essential and interesting information at the end of the book, the definitions, the author's note and especially and in particular, the legend for the Cherokee syllabary, which is really and truly nigh illegible on the Kindle).
Oh and for ANYONE trying to get We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga banned, you are a moron at best and that is frankly being kind.
December 5, 2022
This is a refreshing and positive story about how and when the Cherokee people are grateful. otsaliheliga * oh-jah-LEE-hay-lee-gah * we are grateful.
uligohvsdi * oo-lee-GO-huhs-dee * fall/autumn - with a nice 2-page colorful picture of children riding bikes, raking leaves, and a family taking their baby in a stroller on a path. This is followed by a 2-page picture during the Great New Moon Ceremony, with many people gathered together.
Learning more Cherokee, with colorful pictures:
grandmother
winter
Cherokee (as lullabies are sung)
spring
strawberries
summer
history
In the appendix, there is a nice list of definitions of items mentioned (Shell shakers; Trail of Tears; Gigging; Green Corn Ceremony, etc)
I really like the Cherokee Syllabary on the last page of the book. There are 86 symbols that represent the Chereokee language. Kids reading this book can read the Cherokee word on the pages of the book, then look them up on this page in the back to figure out the pronunciation. Then return to the word on the original pages to see how the author has already done this to show the pronunciation with the syllables of emphasis.
I score this as 4+ in the Junior/kid category. They all need a positive diverse book such as this. The native language words taught were a nice bonus!
uligohvsdi * oo-lee-GO-huhs-dee * fall/autumn - with a nice 2-page colorful picture of children riding bikes, raking leaves, and a family taking their baby in a stroller on a path. This is followed by a 2-page picture during the Great New Moon Ceremony, with many people gathered together.
Learning more Cherokee, with colorful pictures:
grandmother
winter
Cherokee (as lullabies are sung)
spring
strawberries
summer
history
In the appendix, there is a nice list of definitions of items mentioned (Shell shakers; Trail of Tears; Gigging; Green Corn Ceremony, etc)
I really like the Cherokee Syllabary on the last page of the book. There are 86 symbols that represent the Chereokee language. Kids reading this book can read the Cherokee word on the pages of the book, then look them up on this page in the back to figure out the pronunciation. Then return to the word on the original pages to see how the author has already done this to show the pronunciation with the syllables of emphasis.
I score this as 4+ in the Junior/kid category. They all need a positive diverse book such as this. The native language words taught were a nice bonus!
November 6, 2019
4.5 Stars This is so special! It is a beautiful, deeply meaningful book that is important for anyone, at any time of the year. The idea to constantly cultivate gratitude as a part of life, though days and seasons, is so powerful and so necessary. Certainly this isn't the first or only book to point this out, but it does so very well. I think I might have enjoyed it more if it was a more cohesive "story" but I still think it's very effective. It is also a very important and needed look at modern Cherokee culture. As the author points out, so many books about Native Americans either look at historical times/figures or misinterpret important points about the culture. How grateful I am to have this vibrant, loving and (I assume) accurate glimpse into real Cherokee culture today--and that this book may be shared with children so that they have accurate ideas, too. The book is hopeful and celebratory, yet it also hints at some of the more challenging aspects of Cherokee life both past and present. Many layers with this one, allowing the parent/teacher to go to deeper levels with older children who are ready for more. The back matter is insightful and well worth reading and, while there is not a bibliography in the printed book (Indeed, the author drew much from her own experience and from talking to others) there is a link to the author's website where more information can be found. And I was happy to see Frané Lessac's illustrations--I remember her style so vividly from My Little Island -- and it sounds as if she spent a lot of time trying to ensure accurate details in her representations of modern Cherokee life.
April 30, 2019
Quite lovely. A modern Cherokee family in the USA moves through the seasons informed by their own cultural background: words, language, rituals are introduced to the young reader as a natural part of their world. A glossary and note on the Cherokee syllabary and language follow. Nice illustrations. Children's picture book - ages 3 - 10. A 2019 Robert F. Sibert Informational Award Honor Book.
November 21, 2018
First-time author Traci Sorrell, a member of the Cherokee Nation, presents a picture-book tribute to the seasons, and to the Cherokee practice of gratitude in We Are Grateful / Otsaliheliga. Set in the here and now, the simple narrative chronicles life in the Cherokee community throughout the year, from the Great New Moon Ceremony in the fall (Cherokee New Year) to the Green Corn Ceremony in the summer. At every occasion, the people are otsaliheliga (grateful)...
A lovely little book, We Are Grateful / Otsaliheliga comes recommended on the back dust-jacket by Abenaki children's author Joseph Bruchac, who is one of my favorites. Sorrell's narrative here actually mentions the Cherokee folktale about the first strawberries, which Bruchac has retold in picture-book form ( The First Strawberries ). Cherokee words are introduced and defined throughout, both in the original Cherokee syllabary and in transliteration, making this title both educational and entertaining. The accompanying artwork, done by illustrator Frané Lessac in gouache, is colorful and vibrant, with a folksy feeling that is well-suited to the text. An informative afterword provides definitions, an author's note, and an exploration of the Cherokee syllabary. Recommended to anyone looking for picture-books about gratitude and/or about Native Americans in the present day.
A lovely little book, We Are Grateful / Otsaliheliga comes recommended on the back dust-jacket by Abenaki children's author Joseph Bruchac, who is one of my favorites. Sorrell's narrative here actually mentions the Cherokee folktale about the first strawberries, which Bruchac has retold in picture-book form ( The First Strawberries ). Cherokee words are introduced and defined throughout, both in the original Cherokee syllabary and in transliteration, making this title both educational and entertaining. The accompanying artwork, done by illustrator Frané Lessac in gouache, is colorful and vibrant, with a folksy feeling that is well-suited to the text. An informative afterword provides definitions, an author's note, and an exploration of the Cherokee syllabary. Recommended to anyone looking for picture-books about gratitude and/or about Native Americans in the present day.
January 15, 2019
A beautiful celebration of gratefulness as expressed by Cherokee people throughout the seasons and a wonderful book to explore thankfulness on different occasions and during different activities.
From the author's note:
"I a grateful for the opportunity to provide a contemporary view of Cherokee culture in this book. From my childhood until today, there have been few books that show present-day Cherokee children and their families..."
From the author's note:
"I a grateful for the opportunity to provide a contemporary view of Cherokee culture in this book. From my childhood until today, there have been few books that show present-day Cherokee children and their families..."
November 21, 2019
The text, complete with Cherokee words, language, and pronunciation guide on each page, and the seasonal themes are beautiful. I thought the illustrations were too simplistic personally, but appreciated they were colorful. A great book to read to little ones (and adults) on Thanksgiving, in honor of the people whose land we reside on!
November 14, 2018
Books not only please, but teach us. I am grateful to Traci Sorell for this beautiful book, telling of the Cherokee tradition of expressing gratitude. The word otsaliheliga (oh-jah-LEE-hay-lee-gah) is used by members of the Cherokee Nation to express gratitude. All through the seasons, including planting strawberries, "an ancestral story's sweet reminder not to argue with each other", the harvest that includes the "Green Corn Ceremony" and saying goodbye to a clan relative "heading off to serve our country", the moments show warm feelings of saying thanks to life itself. With full-color folk art illustrations, it's a pleasure to read and enjoy these traditions. Sorrell is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, includes an author's note, a glossary, and the complete Cherokee syllabary, originally created by Sequoyah.
January 2, 2019
This would make for a great read aloud in grades k-2 with a big question in mind like, "What are we grateful for in our lives (at different times of the year)?" The author, Sorrell, describes what members of the Cherokee Nation are grateful for in each season. While some things are unique to the tribe's culture or celebrations (e.g., shell shakers dancing during the Great New Moon Ceremony), some are universal (e.g., "have hope as our elisi, Grandma, cradles the newest member of the family"). While some things are bigger (like an annual celebration), some things are smaller (like savoring a good meal). Young students will easily connect to Sorrell's descriptions and to Lessac's illustrations. An excellent opportunity to learn about the Cherokee Nation and to make connections to our own lives--including stopping to really reflect on that bigger question.
Read this aloud for joy and then again (multiple times throughout the year, for different purposes) for students to reflect and discuss. Use as a mentor for authors in writing workshop, too.
Questions for student-led discussions might include:
*On this page, what does the author describe that she's thankful for? What does the illustrator include in the picture to reveal this gratitude? What does that make you think about in your own life?
*How does the author show that members of the Cherokee Nation are grateful for each other? For nature?
*What feels familiar? Less familiar?
*What are you learning that you might tell someone at home tonight?
*What stays the same each season? (Being with family) What changes?
*Why do you think the author included the Cherokee words in English and using the Cherokee syllabary?
*Why is it important for the reader to learn the word grateful as it is pronounced in Cherokee?
LOVED the author's notes. Look at page 2 (between the title page and the first page of text)--Sorrell establishes accuracy and authority with the list of members of the Cherokee Nation who checked her work. At the back of the book, she provides insight into Cherokee culture and her membership in the tribe, provides definitions for unfamiliar terms - in kid friendly language, and more information about the Cherokee syllabary (including a chart with examples).
Read this aloud for joy and then again (multiple times throughout the year, for different purposes) for students to reflect and discuss. Use as a mentor for authors in writing workshop, too.
Questions for student-led discussions might include:
*On this page, what does the author describe that she's thankful for? What does the illustrator include in the picture to reveal this gratitude? What does that make you think about in your own life?
*How does the author show that members of the Cherokee Nation are grateful for each other? For nature?
*What feels familiar? Less familiar?
*What are you learning that you might tell someone at home tonight?
*What stays the same each season? (Being with family) What changes?
*Why do you think the author included the Cherokee words in English and using the Cherokee syllabary?
*Why is it important for the reader to learn the word grateful as it is pronounced in Cherokee?
LOVED the author's notes. Look at page 2 (between the title page and the first page of text)--Sorrell establishes accuracy and authority with the list of members of the Cherokee Nation who checked her work. At the back of the book, she provides insight into Cherokee culture and her membership in the tribe, provides definitions for unfamiliar terms - in kid friendly language, and more information about the Cherokee syllabary (including a chart with examples).
November 21, 2018
This is a lovely duel language, English and Cherokee, book about the different ways the Cherokee people express gratitude "throughout the year and across the seasons" as a reminder of both their blessings and their struggles. Following one family throughout the year, readers learn that each season is greeted by saying otsaliheliga (we are grateful), followed by descriptions of the celebrations and rituals which are observed as the seasons change. Sorell, who is a member of the Cherokee Nation, has smoothly woven into the story the different traditional and modern customs and cultural activities, including special foods, crafts, songs, and dancing that are very much a part of the Cherokee year, as well as some of the more salient events in their history. In fact, the year closes with summer, a time for the first harvest and for recalling their ancestors' sacrifices and to celebrate their history at Cherokee National Holiday. The book ends with a two page spread in a collage of illustrations from the past year, and a reminder that "Every day, every season Otsaliheliga. We are grateful."
Sorell keeps the text simple throughout, and yet she manages to convey a lot of information about the Cherokee idea of gratitude, supported by equally simple, yet informative colorful gouache folk art style illustrations. Each Cherokee word used is written in both the English alphabet and Cherokee syllabary, followed by its pronunciation and definition. Back matter includes Definitions, an Author's Note, and information about the Cherokee language. This is a wonderful book for sharing with young readers, as it opens up lots of opportunity for discussion and learning.
Sorell keeps the text simple throughout, and yet she manages to convey a lot of information about the Cherokee idea of gratitude, supported by equally simple, yet informative colorful gouache folk art style illustrations. Each Cherokee word used is written in both the English alphabet and Cherokee syllabary, followed by its pronunciation and definition. Back matter includes Definitions, an Author's Note, and information about the Cherokee language. This is a wonderful book for sharing with young readers, as it opens up lots of opportunity for discussion and learning.
October 26, 2018
This picture book looks at modern life in the Cherokee Nation. Looking at being grateful, the book explores the year and its seasons. Along the way, various Cherokee words are shared with the reader both in English lettering and also in Cherokee syllabary. Throughout the book, a strong connection with nature is shared with buckbrush, cane flutes, wild onions, and large gardens. There is also a clear connection with Cherokee history from the Trail of Tears to family members who have passed on to festivals and memorials. This is a book about community that celebrates the earth, survival, and family.
This is Sorell’s debut picture book. A member of the Cherokee Nation, her prose here reflects her skill as a poet, bringing a soaring feel to the moments she shares. The book ends with a glossary of terms that will inform readers about the connection to things like stickball and gigging. Sorell uses the title phrase of “We are grateful” again and again in the book, creating a rhythmic feel of a traditional tale.
Lessac’s illustrations are done in gouache, creating bright and rich colors that show entire scenes on the page. The greens of nature, the blues of the water and sky, the bursts of color in homes and gardens, all have a great depth of color.
A wonderful modern look at Cherokee traditions and our universal gratitude for community and family. Appropriate for ages 5-9.
This is Sorell’s debut picture book. A member of the Cherokee Nation, her prose here reflects her skill as a poet, bringing a soaring feel to the moments she shares. The book ends with a glossary of terms that will inform readers about the connection to things like stickball and gigging. Sorell uses the title phrase of “We are grateful” again and again in the book, creating a rhythmic feel of a traditional tale.
Lessac’s illustrations are done in gouache, creating bright and rich colors that show entire scenes on the page. The greens of nature, the blues of the water and sky, the bursts of color in homes and gardens, all have a great depth of color.
A wonderful modern look at Cherokee traditions and our universal gratitude for community and family. Appropriate for ages 5-9.
March 2, 2019
The hardcover* of this is stunning. Well worth five stars, because it's not only universally important, but it's universally appealing. It's about thankfulness, and joy, and looking to the future. And the style of the illustrations serves to keep it light and accessible, too.
At the same time, points are made that can be discussed with older children. For example one young man goes off to serve his country, even though that same country has often treated his First Nation very badly. Also note that the everyday dress is ordinary jeans, sweaters, etc. And that some of the 'Indian' people have very dark or very fair skin, and some are even blond.
Very much appreciated are the several appendixes, the translation of the key words of the text, and the note on the copyright page.
Highly recommended to all, and thank you Beverly (and the Sibert judges) for pointing this out to me.
*Gundula reports in the group discussion that the ebook is bad.
At the same time, points are made that can be discussed with older children. For example one young man goes off to serve his country, even though that same country has often treated his First Nation very badly. Also note that the everyday dress is ordinary jeans, sweaters, etc. And that some of the 'Indian' people have very dark or very fair skin, and some are even blond.
Very much appreciated are the several appendixes, the translation of the key words of the text, and the note on the copyright page.
Highly recommended to all, and thank you Beverly (and the Sibert judges) for pointing this out to me.
*Gundula reports in the group discussion that the ebook is bad.
February 13, 2019
Wow! This is unique! I don't think I've ever read a children's book that so succinctly describes modern Cherokee family and traditions, and introduces kids to the language, as well. This is certainly one to treasure.
Veg*n parents note: As the seasonal activities change, there is a brief reference to eating hens' eggs and "catching crawdads for supper." We see people wading into a stream with some sort of fork-like instruments to illustrate the latter.
Veg*n parents note: As the seasonal activities change, there is a brief reference to eating hens' eggs and "catching crawdads for supper." We see people wading into a stream with some sort of fork-like instruments to illustrate the latter.
November 9, 2018
I loved this idea, because Native language revitalization is a passion of mine. However, the illustrations weren't quite my aesthetic and there wasn't really a plot. I wanted to like it so badly, but I can't quite see it as a read-aloud.
November 13, 2018
This book is definitely a current favorite! Expect this one on awards lists, for sure! Terrific, poetic text, fantastic fine art illustrations, and a sensitive portrayal of the lives of the people of the Cherokee nation make this one a winner!
September 24, 2018
Sticking a note on this to pull it back out in November for storytime and the display.
October 22, 2018
A beautifully illustrated book about a Cherokee family and the traditions they celebrate.
August 14, 2020
Ages: 3-9
We are Grateful Otsaliheligo follows a Cherokee family and their community throughout the seasons of the year. This book is a wonderful way for children to learn some Cherokee words through the vocabulary that is phonetically and syllabary represented.
I am so excited to share this book with you because I have studied children’s literature for years. I have had a hard time finding quality children’s books that depict Native Americans in a positive modern light.
Awards/Recognitions: Sibert Honor Book, Orbis Pictus Honor Book, Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor Book, American Indian Youth Literature Award Honor Book, NPR’s Guide to 2018’s Great Reads, Kirkus Reviews Best Books of 2018, School Library Journal Best Books of 2018
Find more children's books that support diversity and tolerance in my post https://www.teacher-librarian-forlife...
We are Grateful Otsaliheligo follows a Cherokee family and their community throughout the seasons of the year. This book is a wonderful way for children to learn some Cherokee words through the vocabulary that is phonetically and syllabary represented.
I am so excited to share this book with you because I have studied children’s literature for years. I have had a hard time finding quality children’s books that depict Native Americans in a positive modern light.
Awards/Recognitions: Sibert Honor Book, Orbis Pictus Honor Book, Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor Book, American Indian Youth Literature Award Honor Book, NPR’s Guide to 2018’s Great Reads, Kirkus Reviews Best Books of 2018, School Library Journal Best Books of 2018
Find more children's books that support diversity and tolerance in my post https://www.teacher-librarian-forlife...
September 23, 2024
A beautiful story about Cherokee culture and appreciating Mother Earth throughout the seasons. It includes Cherokee language translations and excellent supplementary information in the back.
December 24, 2021
Featured in a grandma reads session.
This picture book also presents a grand introduction to Cherokee words and their alphabet! Our crew was very interested in the new words, and trying them out. We looked over the alphabet and then did further screens in our zoom session to see and read about the alphabet (which has an intriguing history on its own!).
The artwork supports the author's descriptions and shows cultural activities, clothing, and celebrations. It was a welcome opportunity to share the Cherokee view point to my kiddos. They enjoyed, it and the post-read discussion. (Such as where do they live? Googling ensued.)
This picture book also presents a grand introduction to Cherokee words and their alphabet! Our crew was very interested in the new words, and trying them out. We looked over the alphabet and then did further screens in our zoom session to see and read about the alphabet (which has an intriguing history on its own!).
The artwork supports the author's descriptions and shows cultural activities, clothing, and celebrations. It was a welcome opportunity to share the Cherokee view point to my kiddos. They enjoyed, it and the post-read discussion. (Such as where do they live? Googling ensued.)
July 4, 2021
This was my second time reading, but this time I shared with my students the “read to me” version on Epic! for Schools. I told my class I wanted to respect the language by doing an audio for them because I knew I would butcher a lot of the words. And boy, the audio was phenomenal, along with the gentle background sounds throughout (playing, Cherokee conversations, woodpecker, wind blowing, etc). It made the pictures come to life for my students! They also enjoyed repeating the words with the pronunciation guide at the end of each page.
October 8, 2018
I am grateful for any book that builds knowledge and understanding of a culture. Traci Sorell takes us inside the Cherokee community sharing celebrations, crafts, history, family traditions, food, games, language, and customs through the four seasons. In the text and illustrations children will no doubt find connections to their own lives as well as differences. It’s a great book to inspire conversation and let us all stop and consider what we are be grateful for.
March 2, 2019
Nonfiction picture book depicting modern life for the Cherokee people, written by a member of the Cherokee Nation. Bright, colorful, modern looking illustrations. Includes pronunciations for Cherokee words, a glossary, a Cherokee syllabary, and a personal author's note. There is also a classroom guide available online. This book is an excellent social studies text for elementary school. As a child, I would have loved learning the Cherokee words and traditions.
August 1, 2019
This beautifully written and illustrated book goes through each of the four seasons, and tells of things the Cherokee people are grateful for. Each season has wonderful drawings that show the beauty of that time of year, while the text tells of the activities and traditions that the Cherokee participate in that demonstrate their gratitude, and help grow their tribal identity.
August 27, 2018
A lovely picture book about a Cherokee community celebrating a year's worth of traditions, festivals, and every day activities. Each spread introduces the Cherokee names, spelling, and pronunciation. The illustrations are vibrant and warm.
September 27, 2019
What a beautiful book! A wonderful entry point for young readers (and adults) into the Cherokee culture. The illustrations were amazing and I loved seeing the diversity within the group, as well. Definitely a book to share.
October 4, 2019
Love, love, love this. It is authentic and amazing and beautiful. The Cherokee words are written and presented phonetically. The text flows, the art shines, and the message of gratitude and community is a reflective one without being preachy. All the stars.
November 12, 2018
I love how this teaches appreciation and words in Cherokee!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 602 reviews