The Cherokee: People, Culture, and History

Vibrant traditions, rich histories, and strong voices—that’s the Cherokee Nation. In this inspiring nonfiction book for young readers, discover more about the people, places, and culture of one of the United States’ largest Indigenous groups. Explore how the Cherokee people still survive—and thrive—by safeguarding their language, reviving customs, and upholding celebrations, like the annual Cherokee National Holiday that honors their heritage. Through interactive activities and engaging features—including maps, timelines, recipes, and crafts—Cherokee author Twila M. Barnes provides young learners with important insights into the past, present, and future of the Cherokee people. Debbie Reese of American Indians in Children's Literature describes the book as Highly Recommended. In her review, Reese praises the book's present tense verbs, its cover featuring a present-day Native child, and its authorship, noting, "I recommend books by Native writers because they bring their lived experience to their writing. They have knowledge that they gained first-hand rather than from resources by outsiders that are too-often flawed, biased, incomplete, or just plain wrong!" Barnes's carefully crafted work offers readers an authentic resource that invites deeper learning about the Cherokee Nation.