Rez Dogs
on Goodreads (4,349)
What’s inside...
From the U.S.'s foremost indigenous children's author comes a middle grade verse novel set during the COVID-19 pandemic about a Wabanaki girl named Malian who is quarantined on her grandparents' reservation. During her stay, she forms a bond with a local dog named Malsum and learns more about her Penacook heritage through stories her grandparents share about their ancestors, her grandfather's survival of a government boarding school, and her mother's return to the Native community after being placed in foster care. Through these stories and the protective nature of the reservation community, Malian and her family find strength to survive the pandemic together.
Age
8-12
Length
192 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Malian
Malsum
Malian'S Grandmother
Malian'S Grandfather
Discussion points
How do you think Malian feels when she’s separated from her family, and why do you think her connection with Malsum, the dog, is important?
What did you learn about the Wabanaki community and their traditions through Malian's stories?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone in your community like Malian helps hers?
What role do you think resilience plays in the story, and how do the characters show their strength?
How does the story change your thinking about what it means to be a hero?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by sharing your own thoughts on the book’s themes and ask your child to do the same, promoting an open and understanding environment.
Relate the themes of the book to real-life situations that your child might face, like dealing with change or helping others, to make the connection stronger.
Encourage your child to think about how they would feel in Malian’s situation, fostering empathy and deeper understanding of the character’s emotions.
Ask your child to think of questions they would like to ask the characters in the book, driving curiosity and engagement with the narrative.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of family and community support
Explanation: In 'Rez Dogs,' the protagonist learns to rely on and cherish the support of her family and community during challenging times.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and seek support from their own family and community, understanding the strength that comes from unity.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The story showcases how the main character overcomes difficulties with courage and determination, providing a role model for coping with challenges.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to remain strong and resilient when encountering obstacles, fostering a growth mindset.
Example Lesson: The value of cultural heritage
Explanation: The book delves into aspects of Native American culture through its characters and setting, highlighting the importance of preserving one's cultural roots.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and explore their own cultural backgrounds and those of others, promoting cultural awareness and sensitivity.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Throughout the narrative, characters express empathy towards each other, teaching the reader about the importance of understanding others' feelings and perspectives.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children develop empathy in their daily interactions, improving their social skills and relationships.
Example Lesson: The significance of storytelling
Explanation: The book emphasizes how storytelling connects generations and preserves history, as the protagonist learns from stories told by elders.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to listen to and share stories, enhancing their communication skills and deepening their understanding of history and tradition.