Will we ever stop talking about diverse representation? Nope! We at THP will continue to support and amplify underrepresented authors and artists for as long as possible. And today, we’re honoring Native American Heritage Month!
This year, we’re celebrating with a few books by and about people of Native American heritage. We know your TBR is never-ending, but you don’t want to miss out on these four must-read books for NAHM!
Content Warning: The Honey POP encourages mindful reading and checking the author’s website for content warnings.
Contenders By Traci Sorell
We’re starting our lovely list with Traci Sorell’s latest nonfiction picture book, Contenders! She tells the true story of John Meyers and Charles Bender, the first two Native pro baseball players to face off in a World Series in 1911. Both players were dedicated to Native American representation in baseball and broke many barriers while pursuing their respective sports careers. Written by Traci Sorell and illustrated by Arigon Starr, Contenders reminds us not to stop fighting for our dreams, even in the face of injustice and prejudice!
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT TRACI SORELL:
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE
She Persisted: Deb Haaland By Laurel Goodluck
You may have heard of She Persisted, a book series by Chelsea Clinton and Alexandra Boiger about women who have impacted on history. Inspired by this series, Laurel Goodluck presents She Persisted: Deb Haaland, a chapter book biography highlighting one of the first two Native American women elected to Congress. Deb Haaland also became the first Native American to be confirmed as a presidential cabinet secretary. These accomplishments are sure to inspire Indigenous readers everywhere, not only in the States!
Order She Persisted: Deb Haaland here!
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT LAUREL GOODLUCK:
INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | WEBSITE
Rez Ball By Byron Graves
Moving into fictional works, we need to feature Byron Graves’ debut novel, Rez Ball! This YA novel tells the story of Tre Brun, a high school basketball player with dreams of representing his Ojibwe rez in their first state championship. And after his older brother Jaxon dies in an accident, Tre must step into Jaxon’s shoes. He has to navigate school, sports, and love while making as few mistakes as possible. (No pressure!) We believe in Tre. And we’re cheering for dutiful athletes like him every day!
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BYRON GRAVES:
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER
Warrior Girl Unearthed By Angeline Boulley
Lastly, we recommend Angeline Boulley’s latest novel, Warrior Girl Unearthed! This YA thriller is set in the same community as her debut novel, Firekeeper’s Daughter. It tells the story of Perry Firekeeper-Birch, an Ojibwe teen determined to find who’s behind the cases of missing Indigenous women and grave robbers. Familiar characters return in Warrior Girl Unearthed as Perry plans a high-stakes heist to protect her home. We don’t know about you, but we’re sold on this book!
Order Warrior Girl Unearthed here!
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ANGELINE BOULLEY:
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | WEBSITE
We hope you enjoyed reading our roundup of books and authors of Native American heritage as much as we enjoyed writing it! For the record, all four of these books will be on our wish lists this year.
How are you celebrating NAHM? And which of these Native American books and authors are you adding to your reading lists? Let us know on Twitter! You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram!
Need some more book recs? We got them!
