A good book BEFORE LHOTP?

[mackysmama]

I read with interest the thread about whether it is appropriate to read Little House on the Praire to kids because of the racism toward native people that is included in the book. I do want to read this series of books to my kids but I would like to read them something *first* that tells the story of those times from a native's perspective. Or, at the least, a book that depicts natives in a positive way. Do you have any suggestions? Oh, I plan on reading it to my 5 yo but his reading comprehension is above average (Harry Potter kind of level). thanks!!

[sapphire_chan]

Maybe get some books about the cultures of those mentioned adversely in the LHOTP books? They'll be in the early 900's at your library.

For your first question, I'd also recommend talking to your librarians, it's quite possible that they've got some sort of database that can help.

[Nemo6]

Originally Posted by mackysmama

I would like to read them something *first* that tells the story of those times from a native's perspective.

I recommend The Birchbark House and The Game of Silence by Louise Erdrich, about an Ojibwe family in the mid-1800's.

[mackysmama]

Originally Posted by Nemo6

I recommend The Birchbark House and The Game of Silence by Louise Erdrich, about an Ojibwe family in the mid-1800's.

Do you think these are appropriate for a 5 yo, in terms of content? Amazon lists these books and the LHOTHP as being for ages 9-12. But, they also have HP #1 in the same age grouping with HP #6 and there is a big difference in content (my son has read #1 and #2 and will do #3 this year but the others have to wait a few years). What do you think?

Any other suggestions or ideas?

[swimswamswum]

A People's History of the United States (Zinn). It might be too much for your 5 year old, but it provides a fantastic overview of USAmerican history from an anti-racist, anti-oppression perspective. Is there a Zinn reader for kids? That would be cool.

ETA: THERE IS!! This is so awesome! I'm putting this on my baby registry!

http://www.amazon.com/Young-Peoples-...8154606&sr=1-1

[Thalia the Muse]

I think stories from those cultures can be a great way to show their vision of the world, plus introducing their art and their humor. When you read these wonderful awe-inspiring traditional stories, it's obvious the people who made them were not mindless evil "savages" who were less human than white settlers, you know? And it's on a level that's very appropriate and accessible for a young child. We have read a lot of Native American folkstories and mythology with my five-year-old daughter -- Raven (Gerald McDermott), The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses (and others by Paul Goble), The Girl Who Lived with the Bears, Storm Boy, Frog Girl, Rough-Face Girl, How the Moon Regained Her Shape, Arrow to the Sun ...