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kimbongiorno's review
5.0
This is for Young Readers, a Q&A setup that makes it a great resource to keep on hand, done in easy-to-understand language. So interesting, informative, and appreciated.
papillina's review against another edition
4.0
I didn't know where or what I wanted to ask so this was a great book to start. There's a lot of things I didn't know and would like to know more. Thankfully the author gave a lot of recommendations of books and documentaries to read if you'd like to learn more.
Something that I would like to read more is about the school mascots, since it is something that is occurring where I live. It is stated pretty clear that most Natives are against it and that it holds no honor as schools defend their reasons to keep Natives as a mascot. Unfortunately, what happened with Washington did not make a change in many schools. I grew up being placed in "teams" regarding grade levels and most of the time, teachers would name the teams with tribe names. So I thought it was a normal thing until Washington were no longer redskins and I took Mexican American Studies. And I had completely forgotten until I was taking out clothes when I found one shirt. I remember not liking it back then (but kept it cause mom said so for the memories) and I feel disgusted now on how the image was rendered.
And I'm glad this topic was brought up because I was initially confused since there was mixed comments and what the school district made some sort of sense. But most of the comments were coming from people that didn't understand where the Natives are coming from.
I'm still trying to figure out where I belong. Specifically where I should look and learn about my ancestors since my family holds little information. So for now, I'm just trying to learn about the Indigenous people to be more informed and inclusive for when I become a teacher or whatever the situation comes.
Something that I would like to read more is about the school mascots, since it is something that is occurring where I live. It is stated pretty clear that most Natives are against it and that it holds no honor as schools defend their reasons to keep Natives as a mascot. Unfortunately, what happened with Washington did not make a change in many schools. I grew up being placed in "teams" regarding grade levels and most of the time, teachers would name the teams with tribe names. So I thought it was a normal thing until Washington were no longer redskins and I took Mexican American Studies. And I had completely forgotten until I was taking out clothes when I found one shirt. I remember not liking it back then (but kept it cause mom said so for the memories) and I feel disgusted now on how the image was rendered.
And I'm glad this topic was brought up because I was initially confused since there was mixed comments and what the school district made some sort of sense. But most of the comments were coming from people that didn't understand where the Natives are coming from.
I'm still trying to figure out where I belong. Specifically where I should look and learn about my ancestors since my family holds little information. So for now, I'm just trying to learn about the Indigenous people to be more informed and inclusive for when I become a teacher or whatever the situation comes.
justjacq's review against another edition
challenging
dark
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
4.25
This is such an enlightening and educational pick and it's so easy to read. It really is just a question and answer session where Treuer offers insight on culture, history, and contemporary issues regarding Native Americans. I listened to it and feel like it was especially easy to follow. Treuer is candid in his explanations and does a great job of fostering reflection and understanding. I think it's important reading for just about anyone, but especially in the US, considering how little our country has done in terms of reparations for the genocide we committed against the Native American communities. It certainly broadened my knowledge and has prompted me to consider the ongoing impact of our historical injustices.
davidbythebay's review
challenging
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
4.0
I enjoyed this. I did the audiobook, read by the author, which I think helped. Some of the word choices, I think, could read negatively; but it is his reading that makes those sections what they are - a fair and even assessment of a question. I appreciated his handling of the various cultures discussed as well as his insightful understanding of the various laws. I am a lawyer, but a novice at "Indian Law" (as the field is usually called). So I knew a good bit of what he was talking about, but learned more. I wonder if the adult version of this book goes into more depth. I also wonder if there isn't a suggested bibliography for additional readings. I'd love to find some great examinations of cultural aspects of ancient and modern life.
leasummer's review against another edition
Great introduction book for adults or young adults looking to learn about Native Americans (focus is on US and Canada). Some of the answers are very basic and as the author states, giving a general idea when there are a lot of independent nations represented there is not one answer.
It seems like the YA version is much easier to access. My library doesn’t carry the adult version but has several copies of the YA.
Also I love this cover, so aesthetically pleasing and artist.
It seems like the YA version is much easier to access. My library doesn’t carry the adult version but has several copies of the YA.
Also I love this cover, so aesthetically pleasing and artist.
asevcik's review
5.0
This book was so well written and so informative. If you want to understand Indians and their culture, or even understand your heritage as an American better, you definitely should read this book. I don’t know how it compares to the adult version but I felt like the younger reader version was perfect even for me as an adult. It’s informative and is written in a very factual way and the author makes sure to be very clear when things are his own opinions. Also, be does a very good job of discussing multiple views on controversial topics and always allows for inclusivity of these multiple viewpoints. Highly recommend!