Recent Native American Books for Kids
Indigenous peoples have in common a historical continuity with a given region prior to colonization and a strong link to their lands. Most of the titles are by Indigenous and First Nations authors and/or illustrators. You'll find both stories and nonfiction, as well as some that are historical and others that are contemporary. The books range in age from 3 on up. (Updated October 2025)
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Healer of the Water Monster
Nathan, a young Navajo boy from Phoenix, Arizona, goes on an epic hero's journey at his grandma, Nali's mobile summer home.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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I Hope
This beautifully illustrated picture book, written by award-winning Indigenous author Monique Gray Smith, explores all the hopes adults have for the children in their lives
Format: Book
Availability: No Longer Available
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Josie Dances
As she prepares for her first powwow, an Ojibwa girl practices her dance steps, gets help from her family, and is inspired by the soaring flight of Migizi, the eagle. Includes glossary.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Kapaemahu
Four individuals of dual male and female spirit bring their healing arts from Tahiti to Hawaii, where they are beloved for their gentle ways and miraculous cures and where they imbue four giant boulders with their powers. Two-Spirit story: https://kapaemahu.com/
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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Keepunumuk
Wampanoag children listen as their grandmother tells them the story about how Weeâchumun (the wise Corn) asked local Native Americans to show the Pilgrims how to grow food to yield a good harvest--Keepunumuk--in 1621.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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