Synopsis
Summary
Ariel and Tomah have lived in the city’s intertribal housing complex all their lives. But for both of them, this Dagwaagin (Autumn) season is different than any before. As the seasons change and the cold of winter gives way to spring’s promise, Ariel and Tomah begin to change too as they learn to share the rhythms and stories they carry within themselves.
Notable Achievements
Kirkus Reviews Best Books; New York Public Library's Best Books for Kids; Booklist Editor's Choice: Books for Youth; School Library Journal Best Book
Reviews
Publishers Weekly: "A moving narrative that highlights issues relating to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women crisis while celebrating the healing power of art—including dance, folklore, music, and poetry—and the solace one can find in connecting with one’s heritage."
Kirkus Reviews: "A captivating, exquisitely penned story of hope and survival."
School Library Journal: "An impactful story about discovering how to declare yourself proudly and bring awareness to your community; this opens an important window into the modern-day life of Native American culture that has yet to be fully explored thoroughly in middle grade literature."
Link to Review
Link to Review
Educator Guide
This guide to Indigenous literature, created by Muskogee educator Jenna Wolf in association with Heartdrum, includes discussion questions for Red Bird Danced as well as a general introduction to the importance of Indigenous books.
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Indigenous Environmentalism: Honoring Our Relationships and Responsibilities with Nature
