Hicks_Multicultural Presentation 420

Pictures

Award

Authenticity

Multicultural Book Talk

Read Aloud

Illistrator

Author

Research

Summary

I found it interesting that when reading this book, some of the students who do not typically speak in class, broke out of their shells. For example, there is a student who is Native American (who NEVER seems to speak in class), that was able to share her connections with the book to the class. It was interesting to see that students are truly able to connect to books and feel more confident in themselves through these books. This student answered questions about the pronunciation of some Native words I was “unsure” about, and she also shared the similarities between her family and the character's experiences. In addition to this student, there was a Caucasian student who was particularly passionate about Native American culture. It seemed that these two students joined forces and connected through their knowledge of the book. I found this connection ironic since the book is about a Caucasian and Native American girl who become friends and share their cultures. Overall, it was amazing to see students who are typically shy in whole group situations speak up and connect with their peers and the book.

After Reading...

"The American Indian Youth Literature Award is an award given every two years to recognize and honor the best writing and illustrations in children's literature created by and about Native American and Indigenous peoples of North America"

American Indian Youth Literature Award

2. Language

There are many examples of accurate uses of Native American langugae and descriptions of Native American culutre. For example, one of the Native American words used was Magu, which means grandmother. Additionally, it is described in the story that in Native American culture, families are "chosen." Kara, the Native American girl, says that her cousin has been "chosen" as her brother.

Proof of Authenticity

1. Author and Illistrator

Both the author and illistrator of Forever Cousins are of Native American culture. The author, Laurel Goodluck, wrote this story about what she experinced as a child. The illistrator, Jonathon Nelson, is also Native American, and is known to accurately depict Native American culture through the arts. The experiences both girls in the book go through are depictions of exactly what Laurel Goodluck experienced as a child of Native American Culture

Goodluck, L., & Nelson, J. (2022). Forever cousins. Charlesbridge.

Goodluck, L., & Nelson, J. (2022). Forever cousins. Charlesbridge.

Summary of Forever Cousins

The book Forever Cousins by Laurel Goodluck is a story about two young girls who are best friends. One girl, Amanda, is Caucasian and Kara, is Native American. This story depicts the cultural differences each girl faces when going to different schools (in the city and on the reservation). In the end, the two girls and their families are reunited at Kara’s family's yearly reunion, where Amanda and her family are further introduced to the family's culture. The underlying theme of 'Forever Cousins is Navigating Change, as shown on many occations in the book.

• Tipi: Made of animcal hides, pelts, or (recently) canvas on wood poles.They provide shelter, warmth, and a place for community gatherings. They are typically not used for housing anymore.

• Ancestor: A family member who has passed away and is typically much older, especially compared to the girls in the story.

• Sweetgrass: promotes happiness and harmony (plant)

• Sage: purification purposes (plant)

• Powwow: a celebration of Native American culture that features dancing and singing. This tradition includes everyone in the tribe, is meant to honor ancestors, and involves traditional crafts and exchanges.

• Chokecherry: “Bitter Berry.” Can be used for jams and jellies, but the roots are used for warding off colds, fevers, or stomach aches.

• Maguu: Grandmother.

• Rez: Short for Reservation (a place where Native American's live and practice their culture)

• Fry Bread: Flatbread that is fried. It is a traditional Native American dish similar to American pizza dough

Before completing a read aloud with the book Forever Cousins, I had to do quite a bit of research about Native American language and cultural activities. Below are my findings.

Research

Laurel Goodluck wrote the book Forever Cousins about her childhood experiences.She grew going to the reservation where some of her family lived. She participated in many Native American Traditions with her family. Laurel Goodluck’s parents moved from the reservation to the city as a result of the Indian Relocation act of 1956

Laurel Goodluck also wrote: - Rock Your Mocs - Fierce Aunties - She Persisted: Deb Haaland

Laurel Goodluck

Jonathan Nelson is apart of the Navajo tribe. He is a visual artist whos, "... original art and designs featuring Indigenous peoples and culture create an authentic portrayal of Indigenous life in order to decimate stereotypes."

Jonathan Nelson also illistrated: - Hey Dog - A Letter for Bob - First Laugh: Welcome Baby

Jonathan Nelson