Program specialist and librarian of the Indigenous Nations Library Program at University of New Mexico, Janice Kowemy (Pueblo of Laguna), joins Indigenous authors Traci Sorell (Cherokee), Laurel Goodluck (Mandan, Hidatsa), Danielle Greendeer (Mashpee Wampanoag), Anthony Perry (Chickasaw), and Alexis Bunten (Yu’pik, Unangan) to discuss their new books and the state of Native voices in publishing today.
Native voices still represent less than only 2% of all children’s books published in the United States. These five authors are trying to change that statistic with vibrant stories of both contemporary and historical Native peoples for all children to enjoy. Books like We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga, Forever Cousins, and Keepunumuk: Weeâchumun’s Thanksgiving Story are winning awards, sparking inspiration, and changing perceptions.
This lively conversation will provide attendees with insight into new books and new voices, and can take away digital galleys, downloadable discussion/activity guides, and literacy posters. Celebrating our nation’s diversity—and exploring Indigenous stories—can begin with our bookshelves.
Speakers:
Traci Sorell, Author
Laurel Goodluck, Author
Danielle Greendeer, Author
Anthony Perry, Author
Alexis Bunten, Author
Janice Kowemy, Program Specialist & Librarian, Indigenous Nations Library Program at the University of New Mexico (Session Moderator)
