Stories have the power to introduce children to new ideas, experiences, and cultures in ways that stay with them long after they finish reading. The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, celebrated each year on August 9, is a meaningful opportunity for families to explore Indigenous voices, traditions, and storytelling together.
At School is Easy, we encourage students to read books that not only strengthen literacy skills, but also build curiosity, empathy, and cultural understanding. Indigenous-authored books offer young readers the chance to experience rich histories, contemporary perspectives, and powerful lessons through engaging stories for every age group.
Here are some incredible Indigenous-authored books our team recommends for kids and teens of all ages.
Picture Books for Young Readers
Owls See Clearly at Night/LII Yiiboo Nayaapiwak LII Swer: A Michif Alphabet/l’Alfab
By Julie Flett
Owls See Clearly at Night is one of our favourite choices for young readers. Author-illustrator Julie Flett draws inspiration from her Cree-Métis heritage to create an amazing picture book that gently introduces the Michif alphabet.
Written in both English and Michif – a blend of Cree, French and other regional languages – Flett pairs each letter with captivating illustrations that beautifully bridge the connection between Michif and English, making it a perfect choice for little ones to explore a fascinating Indigenous language!
Good Morning World & Goodnight World
By Paul Windsor
Our early years tutors were thrilled to discover Paul Windsor‘s beautiful pair of board books, Good Morning World and Goodnight World. Windsor, a Haisla and Heiltsuk Nation heritage artist, brings Indigenous paintings to life for the littlest readers through his vibrant Northwest Coast designs.
This book’s delightful story follows the sun’s journey, from morning to bedtime, teaching kids about day-to-day routines through stunning Indigenous artistic traditions. We particularly love how Windsor’s bold, colourful artwork captures the audience’s attention while introducing them to traditional Northwest Coast formline art in a perfect way for growing minds!
Middle Grade Books (Ages 8 to 12)
Ancestor Approved: Intertribal Stories for Kids
Edited by Cynthia Leitich
We selected Ancestor Approved: Intertribal Stories for Kids, edited by Cynthia Leitich Smith, a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, for its vibrant collection of stories centred around the Dance for Mother Earth Powwow – a celebration bringing together tribes from all over North America.
Smith weaves a magical book around stories and poems from a collection of 16 Indigenous authors, like Rebecca Roanhorse, Joseph Bruchac, and Dawn Quigley. These stories are accentuated by the celebration reverberating with song, dance, and indigenous wares.
We especially value how the book helps children understand the contemporary lives of Indigenous peoples while celebrating the unique traditions of various Native nations.
The Barren Grounds (The Misewa Saga, Book One)
By David A. Robertson
Middle school students love David A. Robertson‘s The Barren Grounds. This first book in the Misewa Saga launches readers into an extraordinary world where Indigenous traditions meet fantasy, following two Indigenous children who discover a magical portal.
The series revolves around two Indigenous children forced into an orphanage – Morgan and Eli – who discover a portal to the magical world of Askí. In this book, we are introduced to the series, the protagonists’ world, and their life-and-death struggle to help the mysterious community of Misewa.
Our tutors loved the immersive fantasy elements mixed with Indigenous stories inspired by the author’s own history as a member of the Norway House Cree Nation. This was a fantastic book for any kid who is a fan of the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series.
A Girl Called Echo (Pemmican Wars Volume 1)
By Katherena Vermette
Our subject matter experts recommend the graphic novel A Girl Called Echo by Katherena Vermette, especially for visual learners. Through the eyes of an Indigenous teenager, readers travel through time to witness crucial moments in the Métis peoples’ history.
Our story follows Echo Desjardins, a young Indigenous teen doing her best under stressful circumstances. Suddenly, during a typical class, she starts being transported through time to amazing moments throughout Indigenous history.
This fun series is a real passion of the author; as a member of the Métis Nation, Vermette is also a huge advocate for the Indigenous people of Canada. The book is beautifully illustrated by Scott B. Henderson and Donovan Yaciuk, two very accomplished artists who really bring the story to life.
Young Adult Reads (Ages 12 – 18)
Firekeeper’s Daughter
By Angeline Boulley
For college-bound readers, our team enthusiastically recommend Firekeeper’s Daughter, written by Angeline Boulley, an enrolled member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians.
This compelling mystery follows Daunis Fontaine, a biracial Ojibwe teenager who struggles with acceptance from her people and gets entangled in an FBI investigation on her reservation. Boulley weaves her own traditional Ojibwe culture with a modern thriller, creating an authentic story that keeps students turning pages while learning about contemporary Indigenous life.
Filled with intrigue and drama, this book is an excellent look into the lives of the Indigenous people and their communities. It is terrific for readers who enjoy cultural exploration and edge-of-your-seat suspense!
Hearts Unbroken
By Cynthia Leitich Smith
Written by Cynthia Leitich Smith, who brings her Muscogee (Creek) perspective to this contemporary story, Hearts Unbroken follows a Native teen journalist navigating the complexities of high school life.
In this tale, our main character, Louise “Lou” Wolfe, is thrust into a racial divide started by her school’s inclusive version of The Wizard of Oz. As a reporter for the school’s newspaper, she teams up with her photographer, Joey Kairouz, to navigate this world of bigotry and hate.
The book sparked great discussions among our students about identity, journalism, and standing up for what’s right. It’s especially relevant for young readers interested in exploring how traditional values and modern teenage life can come together in meaningful ways.
Supporting Young Readers Beyond the Classroom
Every child learns differently, and sometimes students simply need the right support to build confidence in reading and learning.
At School is Easy, tutors work with students to strengthen reading comprehension, writing skills, study habits, and overall confidence in school. Whether your child needs extra support or simply wants to grow as a reader, personalized tutoring can help them become more engaged and successful learners.
