alessandra_johnson's review against another edition
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
4.5
We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga by Traci Sorell (2018) is an informative book about the Cherokee Nation and highlights a few important words, like Otsailheliga, and what they mean, in this case it is used to express gratitude. The main theme of the book is celebrating blessings while reflecting on the trials through the use of Cherokee words. The illustrations done by Frané Lessac highlight and accompany the story's emotions. I think this book is good for ages 7-11 because of its higher level of vocabulary and introduction of new words, possibly even older. I personally would use this in a classroom setting because it has historical elements and introduces a new language which can be a lot of fun.
shighley's review against another edition
4.0
I wish that there had actually been a bit more content, and a bit of explanation before reading it might be warranted. The book has vibrant illustrations that are interesting to examine closely. Students could practice pronouncing the words, and the alphabet at the end is very elegant and intriguing. I would encourage students to do further research as well. I read this the day after it received a Horn Book award.
eric1221's review against another edition
5.0
Beautiful message & celebration of Cherokee Nation Culture & Traditions. We have to hold stories like this high and remember that in the United States, we are on soil that belonged to Indigenous peoples. My grandmother always told me this and reading this book rings true to that. I love that there are real Cherokee words and the end pages include Definitions, Author's note, and The Cherokee Syllabary. Amazing book with gorgeous illustrations, too.
kellyjcm's review against another edition
This was a winner! Both girls were enraptured. V was most interested in the illustrations. Z was fascinated by the language and the Cherokee syllabary. She connected incidents and themes from Jewish history to the Cherokee history presented in the story. Highly recommend!
spiderfelt's review against another edition
4.0
And just like that, a second book describing cultural traditions of an Indigenous nation appears on my desk. This time it is the Cherokee language taught in the text. The glossary and alphabet at the end of the book is a useful supplement
pucksandpaperbacks's review against another edition
informative
This is a great read for the Fall season as it covers Cherokee New Year and how the Cherokee people celebrate each season. In addition, there's also vocabulary included.