Exploring Native American Perspectives: Books for Your Unit Study

As we begin our journey into the stories of the First Peoples of this land, it’s essential that we choose books that honor truth, invite curiosity, and help children see Indigenous cultures as living and thriving today.

Week 1 of our Curious Kids Chicago – Native American Unit Study invites families and classrooms to explore Who were the First Peoples of the land we call the United States of America?

The titles below were hand-picked to spark meaningful conversations about identity, community, and connection to the land. Books authored by Indigenous authors have been prioritized. Each link allows you to easily find the books on Amazon — and if you purchase through these links, a small commission helps support my work creating more free educational resources for families and teachers. 💛

The People Shall Continue – Simon J. Ortiz (Acoma Pueblo)

A poetic, powerful narrative that tells the story of Native Nations from the beginning of time through today, celebrating endurance, identity, and hope. Simon Ortiz (Acoma Pueblo) reminds readers that Native history is not something behind us — it’s an ongoing story that continues in the present moment. This is a must-read for setting a tone of respect and continuity in your unit.
➡️ Find The People Shall Continue on Amazon

When the Shadbush Blooms – Carla Messinger (Lenape)

Through gentle text and stunning illustrations, Carla Messinger (Lenape) shows life through the eyes of a Lenape family — past and present, side by side. It’s a beautiful way for children to understand that Indigenous traditions, foods, and family rituals are living connections passed from one generation to the next. Perfect for connecting literature with nature study or seasonal science.
➡️ Find When the Shadbush Blooms on Amazon

Indian No More – Charlene Willing McManis (Umpqua) & Traci Sorell (Cherokee Nation)

Told through the eyes of Regina, a young Umpqua girl, this middle-grade novel explores displacement, identity, and resilience during a time when federal policies forced Native families from their homelands. Co-authored by Charlene Willing McManis (Umpqua) and Traci Sorell (Cherokee Nation), it’s heartfelt, historically grounded, and deeply relevant — an ideal shared-reading choice for upper elementary learners exploring belonging and justice.
➡️ Find Indian No More on Amazon

Turtle Island: The Story of North America’s First People – Eldon Yellowhorn (Piikani Nation) & Kathy Lowinger

This beautifully crafted nonfiction book offers a broad look at the innovation, science, and cultural richness of Indigenous peoples across Turtle Island (North America). Eldon Yellowhorn (Piikani Nation, part of the Blackfoot Confederacy) and co-author Kathy Lowinger bridge archaeology and storytelling, showing that curiosity and discovery have always been part of human history. Use it to anchor discussions or inspire map-based projects.
➡️ Find Turtle Island on Amazon

Before Columbus: The Americas of 1491 (Young Readers Edition) – Charles C. Mann

While not an Indigenous author, Charles Mann’s young readers edition makes complex history accessible, exploring thriving cities, technologies, and ecosystems that existed long before European contact. It highlights Indigenous innovation and challenges myths about “empty lands.” Pair this with classroom mapping activities or geography lessons to add scientific and historical context.
➡️ Find Before Columbus on Amazon

Thirteen Moons on Turtle’s Back – Joseph Bruchac (Abenaki) & Jonathan London

Joseph Bruchac (Abenaki) and Jonathan London celebrate the natural rhythms of Indigenous life through moon cycles — each one telling a story of the seasons and the gifts of the earth. It’s a beautiful bedtime or circle-time read that connects literature, science, and art while honoring the spiritual relationship between people and nature.
➡️ Find Thirteen Moons on Turtle’s Back on Amazon

Bringing It All Together

These stories remind us that Indigenous history isn’t a chapter in the past — it’s a living thread that continues to shape our communities, our city, and our world today. Whether you’re reading at home, in a classroom, or during your own family adventures, these books help children see that learning happens everywhere: in motion, through story, and in connection with the land.

Happy reading — and thank you for supporting Curious Kids Chicago and our growing library of place-based, inclusive learning resources!