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Notable Native Picture Books

An evolving list of amazing OPL picture books by and about Native Americans.

Oakland Public Library

12 items

  • One of my favorite picture books to read with my son. Read it, love it, then go read everything else by Richard Van Camp.
    Picture Book[Victoria, British Columbia] : Orca Book Publishers, 2022. — J PICBK VAN CAMP
  • Fry Bread

    a Native American Family Story

    Maillard, Kevin Noble
    Yummy in every sense of the word. And just try to read this book and not want to eat fry bread.
    Picture BookNew York : Roaring Brook Press, 2019. — J PICBK MAILLARD
  • In the running for my favorite picture book of 2022. The story is beautiful but the illustrations are stunning.
    Picture BookNew York : Little, Brown and Company, 2022. — J PICBK GOADE
  • This award-wnning picture book combines amazing illustrations with a compelling environmental tale. Engaging and educational for older kids, but you can bring in younger readers with the appealing pictures and start instilling the…
    Picture BookNew York : Roaring Brook Press, [2020] — J PICBK LINDSTROM
  • You can see both Native kids and indigenous language (Ojibwe) in this fun tale. And I love the dog!
    Picture BookSaint Paul, MN : Minnesota Historical Society Press, [2018] — J PICBK CHILD
  • My Heart Fills With Happiness =

    Ni Sâkaskineh Mîyawâten Niteh Ohcih

    Gray Smith, Monique, 1968-
    This sweet story helps readers of all ages appreciate the little things in life that bring them big joy.
    Picture Book[United States] : Orca Book Publishers, 2018. — J PICBK GRAY
  • A wonderful book to introduce the concept of gratitude, without the whitewashing of Thanksgiving.
    BookWatertown, MA : Charlesbridge, [2018] — J 975.004 SORELL
  • This book works on so many levels with simple, contrasting shapes to draw the eye of babies and toddlers, while also bringing the fun of animals and play for older kids.
    Picture BookVancouver : Greystone Kids, 2021. — J PICBK FLETT
  • One of the best books about seasons I've seen! Pairing poetic descriptions with captivating illustrations, this book is a multi-sensory experience of each season.
    Picture BookToronto : Groundwood Books, House of Anansi Press, [2021] — J PICBK LUBY
  • I never knew about the wonderful way Navajos welcome a new baby until I read this book. What a great tradition!
    Picture BookWatertown, MA : Charlesbridge, 2018. — J PICBK TAHE
  • Based on the author's real life experience of how her heritage shaped her evolution as a dancer.
    BookNew York : Penguin Workshop, 2022. — J BIO THUNDERCL
  • This is a terrific pick for older kids (and adults) telling the story of Thanksgiving from the perspective of a Native writer and illustrator.
    BookNew York, NY : Scholastic Press, an imprint of Scholastic Inc., [2021] — J 974.402 NEWELL