As we honor and celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ history, culture, and contributions during Native American Heritage Month (also known as American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month), PLT compiled a collection of books about nature that you can read to your learners. Each book was written and/or illustrated by an Indigenous author, reminding us of our strong connections with nature!
PreK-Grade 2
Berry Song
Written and illustrated by Michaela Goade
In her beautifully illustrated book, Berry Song, author and illustrator Michaela Goade celebrates the gifts of the forest with wisdom, gratitude, and kinship with the land. Take a look at this full review, plus ties to PLT activities, from PLT’s Alaska State Coordinator, Molly Gillespie.
A Family Tree
Written by Staci Lola Drouillard
Illustrated by Kate Gardiner
Gardens are full of magic and beauty, and in this story, Grandma’s garden is home to a spruce tree one little girl falls in love with. When her grandparents decide to move, Francis asks to bring the tree to their new home. This sweet story shows how a family (and its favorite tree) adapts to change.
Remember
Written by U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo
Illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Michaela Goade
In this beautiful poem, children are invited to slow down, take a deep breath, and express gratitude for our wonderful world. We are all interconnected – to each other and the earth.
The Water Walker
Written by Joanne Robertson Misko Anungo Kwe
Follow the journey of an Ojibwe Nokomis grandmother as she walks around the Great Lakes to raise awareness of water, one of nature’s most precious natural resources. She inspires others to protect water and our planet for future generations.
Grades 3-5
Keepers of the Earth: Native American Stories and Environmental Activities for Children
Written by Michael J. Caduto and Joseph Bruchac
In this collection of stories, readers learn about the rich culture of Indigenous Peoples and explore hands-on environmental activities that deepen children’s connection to nature.
Native Plant Stories
Written by Michael J. Caduto and Joseph Bruchac
Through mythical stories, students learn just how important plants are to the everyday life and traditions of Indigenous Peoples in North America.
Grades 6-8
Indigenous Ingenuity: A Celebration of Traditional North American Knowledge
Written by Deidre Havrelock and Edward Kay
Learn about the many scientific discoveries and inventions created by Indigenous North Americans in this book, including forest fire management.
Imaginary Borders
Written by Xiuhtezcatl Martinez
Illustrated by Ashley Lukashevsky
In this book by 19-year-old Indigenous climate activist, hip-hop artist, and Youth Director of Earth Guardians, Xiuhtezcatl Martinez inspires young people to take action for our environment.
High School / Young Adult
Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults
Written by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Adapted by Monique Gray Smith
Illustrated by Nicole Neidhardt
In this adaptation of the best-selling book Braiding Sweetgrass, the Indigenous wisdom, scientific knowledge, and lessons we can learn from plant life all around us are shared with the next generation of environmental stewards.
A Guide to Green Jobs in Canada: Voices of Indigenous Professionals
by Project Learning Tree Canada
This downloadable book features 12 stories from First Nations and Inuit leaders working in the forest, conservation, and parks sectors across Canada. Learn what inspired these individuals to pursue green careers and lessons they learned from their experiences.
Megan Annis
Megan Annis
