Powwow Day
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Powwow Day, by Traci Sorell, a member of the Cherokee Nation, and illustrated by Madelyn Goodnight, a member of the Chickasaw Nation, weaves Native American traditions and culture into an uplifting story of a sick girl's longing to be back dancing at her community's powwow. Warm images cover each page, vibrant colors of people, costumes, and dancing at the powwow. At the end of the book there's extensive, detailed information written at just the right level for young readers.
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What's the Story?
In POWWOW DAY, young River is recovering from an illness but is still not well enough to dance in the powwow the way she always has. Sitting on the sidelines of the dancing and drums, she feels alone and sad until the support of her community reassures her that she will dance again.
Is It Any Good?
The combination of Traci Sorell's gentle words and Madelyn Goodnight's vibrant illustrations brings depth and feeling to this touching story. Powwow Day unites the community's traditions and one girl's loneliness and sorrow, showing how the support of her family and friends makes all the difference in her outlook. The information at the end of the book is especially informative, using clear and simple language to describe the history and meaning of powwows.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why River would feel sad about missing her part of the activities in Powwow Day. Why is this so important to her, especially now?
Why do you think the community's traditions are meaningful? What traditions does your community have?
What do you know about Native American communities and cultures? How could you learn more?
Book Details
- Author: Traci Sorell
- Illustrator: Madelyn Goodnight
- Genre: Picture Book
- Topics: Arts and Dance, Brothers and Sisters, Friendship, Great Girl Role Models, History
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Charlesbridge Publishing
- Publication date: February 8, 2022
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 4 - 8
- Number of pages: 32
- Available on: Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: April 1, 2022
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