Powwow Day
What’s inside...
Powwow Day is a joyful and informative picture book that celebrates the vibrant culture and traditions of powwows, which are social gatherings that bring Native American communities together to dance, sing, and honor their heritage. The story follows a young girl named River as she attends a powwow with her family and learns about the different dances, foods, and customs that are an integral part of these events. With colorful illustrations and a rhythmic text that captures the beat of the drums, Powwow Day is a beautiful tribute to the richness and diversity of Native American culture. River is recovering from illness and cannot dance at the powwow this year, which leaves her questioning if she will ever be able to dance again. This heartwarming and hopeful contemporary picture book, written and illustrated by Indigenous creators, is a touching tale for 4-8-year-olds about traditions, community, music, and healing. Additional information explains the history and functions of powwows, which are commonplace across the United States and Canada and are open to both Native Americans and non-Native visitors. Author Traci Sorell is a member of the Cherokee Nation, and illustrator Madelyn Goodnight is a member of the Chickasaw Nation.
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The River
Discussion points
How did River feel about not being able to dance at the powwow? What do you think helped her feel better?
Why is it important for River's community to gather and celebrate their culture together?
What are some ways River's family and friends showed support and care for each other during the powwow?
Can you think of a time when you participated in a family or community event? How did it make you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, explain the significance of a powwow and its role in Native American culture to provide context to the story.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book's events and relate them to their own experiences of community and support.
Ask your child to identify the main characters and discuss their actions and motivations to deepen understanding of the story’s themes.
After finishing the book, consider participating in or attending a cultural event as a family to further reinforce the themes discussed.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of resilience and perseverance
Explanation: In 'Powwow Day,' the protagonist, who is recovering from an illness, demonstrates resilience as she engages with her community's cultural celebration despite her physical limitations.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of persisting through personal challenges and participating in communal activities, even when facing difficulties.
Example Lesson: Understanding and respecting cultural traditions
Explanation: Through the detailed depiction of a powwow, the book educates young readers about Indigenous cultural practices and the significance of maintaining these traditions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this respect and understanding by appreciating diverse cultures and participating in or observing cultural events in their own communities.
Example Lesson: The power of community support
Explanation: The story portrays how the community comes together to support the protagonist during the powwow, showing solidarity and encouragement.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of community involvement and how supporting each other is crucial in overcoming personal and collective challenges.
Example Lesson: Empathy and inclusion
Explanation: The protagonist's friends and family show empathy by modifying activities so she can participate, fostering a sense of inclusion.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to empathize with peers who may have different abilities or needs, ensuring everyone feels included and valued in group activities.
Example Lesson: Celebration of heritage and identity
Explanation: The book underscores the importance of cultural identity through the protagonist's engagement in traditional dances and music, reinforcing pride in her heritage.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and take pride in their own heritage, allowing them to build a strong sense of identity and self-esteem.