Today marks the beginning of National Reading Month, a time to acknowledge the importance of literacy. Reading can take us to fantastical lands, expand our understanding of the world we live in, and provide us with perspectives we may otherwise not have. Tomorrow, March 2, marks Read Across America Day, a time to specifically celebrate the books that educate and inspire youth across the country. One of the goals of the day is to help children connect the stories that they read to their own lived experiences. In recent years, the number of Native authors has grown to help Native youth see themselves represented and to share their experiences with their peers, teachers, and the general populace.
Whether you’re looking to deepen your own understanding of Native cultures or introduce the little ones in your life to Native storytellers, we’ve got a book recommendation for you. Feel free to peruse the suggested titles at https://standwith.collegefund.org/native-american-heritage-month/read/ where you can find books appropriate for readers of all ages. And don’t forget to join our virtual book club discussion with American Indian College Fund President and CEO, Cheryl Crazy Bull, and PEN Award-winning author, Mona Susan Power, on March 26. They’ll be discussing Power’s new book, A Council of Dolls. Learn more and register at https://standwith.collegefund.org/native-american-heritage-month/read/mona-susan-power-a-council-of-dolls/.