Literature Connections: Indigenous Peoples of the Plateau

There are many books related to Native Americans of the Plateau that can help students to better visualize and understand the people and their rich culture. Some short picture books can be used as a whole class read alouds where other longer books can be used as longer novel studies. Using Storyboard That, students can create a plot summary of the book using visuals and descriptions.

The example used is one of the Kaya of the Nez Perce books by Janet Shaw. Written for the American Girl Doll company in collaboration with Nez Perce (Nimiipuu) tribal elders, educators, and historians, the stories aim to be an accurate portrayal of the Nez Perce people and their culture in the 1700s.

Here are some additional examples of literature that relate to the Indigenous People of the Plateau:

Thunder Rolling in the Mountains by Scott O'Dell is a historical fiction novel appropriate for ages 8-12 about Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce (Nimiipuu) and his daughter, Sound of Running Feet. It describes the battles and final surrender of the Nez Perce to the U.S. Army.

A Kid's Guide to Native American History: More than 50 Activities by Yvonne Wakim Dennis is a great book for introducing many different First Nations cultures to students with activities, games and crafts. It talks about every Native American Cultural Region and also includes features on specific people like Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce.

Native American History for Kids: With 21 Activities by Karen Bush Gibson is another comprehensive anthology of Native American history and cultures in all of North American including the Nez Perce and Spokane nations.

Trickster: Native American Tales by Matt Dembicki is a compilation of stories that were contributed by 24 Native American authors and 24 illustrators. They re-tell folk legends from First Nations all over North America.

Turtle Island: The Story of North America's First People by Yellowhorn and Lowinger is a book suitable for Grades 4-7 that includes the vast history of First Nations from all of North America from Canada through Mexico and highlights the fortitude and strength of the Indigenous people.