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Maclear‘s writing is accessible yet rich, with a tone that both educates and inspires young readers. The book highlights Fujikawa‘s determination, passion for art, and her dedication to making diverse stories come to life through her illustrations. The illustrations themselves are vibrant and charming, echoing Fujikawa's own artistic style and bringing her story to life in an engaging way

is a beautifully illustrated biography that tells the inspiring story of Gyo Fujikawa, a pioneering artist whose inclusive illustrations reshaped children‘s books. Through vibrant artwork and lyrical storytelling, Maclear celebrates Fujikawa‘s legacy and her commitment to representing children of all races, encouraging young readers to embrace their creativity and the power of diversity.

“Cherokee people say otsaliheliga to express gratitude.“

I would for sure read this to my first grade classroom. I think i would read it during Native American Heritage Month to show proper representation of indigenous cultures and how they are with the world and through their communities.

This book perfectly captures the Cherokee tribe and the ways they express gratitude for each other and the earth. Within this amazing book, it shows traditional Cherokee terms, and a Cherokee syllabary. It teaches young readers the culture of an Indigenous group, without using stereotypes.

“We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga“ by Traci Sorell is a picture book celebrating Cherokee gratitude throughout the seasons. With poetic text and vibrant illustrations, it follows a Cherokee family expressing thanks for nature, family, and community, offering a culturally rich perspective on gratitude for young readers.

We Are Grateful was published in 2018 and written by a member of the Cherokee tribe. I found that the word otsaliheliga (oh-jah-LEE-hay-lee-gah) is used by members of the Cherokee Nation to express gratitude. The story follows a full Cherokee year of celebrations and experiences through traditions. I would recommend this book to upper elementary grades.

Title: We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga
Author: Traci Sorell
Illustrator: Frané Lessac
Published: September 4, 2018
Genre: non fiction, picture book
Awards: Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Award
Summary: This is a story about Cherokee people and how they celebrate their blessings.

This book was published in 2018 and won the Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Award. This is a story that touches on different Native American tribes. Many books that were written for Thanksgiving glorify events in history that should not be glorified. This is one of those stories that does not do that and instead speaks the truth about the holiday. I have used this in my classroom as a way to inform my students on the holiday.

#NovemberNarrative @Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks @Eggs
#Grateful

Published in 2019, this book is a reminder to us to celebrate our blessings and reflect on daily events and struggles. This book is about the Cherokee people and how they are grateful for everything they have.

Awards:
Robert Sibert Book Award

Genre:
nonfiction