A review by lattelibrarian
When We Were Alone by David A. Robertson

5.0

This picturebook does an absolutely amazing job of making Native American history and colonization palatable and accessible for children without denying or ignoring the depersonalization that went on.  A young girl learns about the boarding schools Native Americans were forced to go into to assimilate into American culture.  That meant no bright colors, short hair, and English only.  And, even better, this book is illustrated by a Native American illustrator, which only adds to the complexity and historical accuracy.  Ultimately, this picturebook is great for teaching a history we so often shy from, and great for showing interfamilial friendships.  Great for grades K-2.

Review cross-listed here!