Picture Books about Native American Culture

We Are Grateful Otsaliheliga
by Traci Sorell; illustrated by Frané Lessac

We Are Grateful chronicles seasonal celebrations and traditions of the Cherokee Nation. The picture book is filled with colorful and interesting illustrations by award-winning illustrator Franė Lessac that portray Cherokee customs and traditions like gathering wild onions, singing lullabies, making corn husk dolls, and sewing moccasins. Illustrations also include a Cherokee family welcoming their new baby, grieving for an uncle who has passed on, and serving in the armed forces. 

Picture Books about Families Sharing Traditions

A Different Pond
by Bao Phi, illustrated by Thi Bui

A boy and his father go fishing in the early morning hours and then make a meal of the fresh carp they catch.

A Different Pond is a Caldecott Honor Book inspired by author Bao Phi’s childhood in Minneapolis. Phi’s simple story realistically portrays a Vietnamese family making a new home in the United States while thoughtful illustrations by Thi Bui convey some of the complexities of life for immigrants and refugees.