November is Native American Heritage Month. Explore the history, art, culture, and traditions of Indigenous peoples through staff recommended novels, poetry, and interactive maps.
It’s important to acknowledge that Indigenous voices and perspectives are rich and varied. According to the U.S. Department of the Interior Indian Affairs, there are currently 574 federally recognized American Indian and Alaska Native tribes and villages.
Visit Native Land, an interactive map of the territories of Indigenous nations that also includes language maps and maps of treaties. The site offers teaching guides, a guide to territory acknowledgment, and more.
For poetry lovers, explore Living Nations, Living Words: A Map of First Peoples Poetry. This interactive map features audio recordings of 47 contemporary Native American poets, including Louise Erdrich, Natalie Diaz, and Ray Young Bear, among many others. The project was conceived by U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo.
Close out the month by bringing your kids to our NAHM-themed story and craft event on November 30!
Check out these staff lists that include books of all kinds for all ages.
Or, grab one of these quick picks!
These Native centered Middle Grade books are by and for the seven generations. For those who are guests on Native land, all are encouraged to read, learn, and take action.
These books explore Native and Indigenous food knowledge, traditional gathering practices, and a revitalization of foraging by non Native communities. This book list was created in honor of the 2021 Alameda County Reads selection of "Eat Joy."
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