McDermott, Gerald. Arrow to the Sun
A classic of children’s literature and a Caldecott Medal Winner, Gerald McDermott’s Arrow to the Sun revisits an ancient Pueblo legend: a young boy in search of his heritage must prove his readiness by navigating four ceremonial chambers. The vibrant artwork and story have captivated readers since the book first published in 1974.
(Ages 3 – 7)
Sorell, Traci. At the Mountain's Base
Illustrated by Weshoyot Alvitre
This lyrical picture book — one of the debut titles from the new and inclusive imprint, Kokila — illustrates the everyday lives and traditions of a Cherokee family as they wait for their loved one, a pilot, to return home from war. A celebration of family and tradition as well as Native American service members, it’s an excellent addition to home and school libraries.
(Ages 4 – 8)
Wilde, Oscar. The Selfish Giant.
Illustrated by Saelig Gallagher. Putnam, 1995. (3)
An embittered old man, a “giant,” shoos children out of his garden and cannot be bothered with their laughter or joy. His heart is moved to compassion and he is changed by the plight of a small child. Superb illustrations.
Lattimore, Deborah Nourse. The Sailor Who Captured the Sea.
Harper Collins, 1991. (3-5)
Compassion extends to the enemy. Set in medieval Ireland, a Celt rescues a drowning Viking and struggles to complete his life’s work in the face of adversity. His noble deed pays off. Exceptional artwork integrates medieval manuscript borders with Viking motifs.
Shaw-MacKinnon, Margaret. Tiktala.
Illustrated by Laszlo Gal. Holiday House, 1996. (4-6)
Tiktala, an Inuit child, wants to be a great carver of soapstone (a traditional craft among her people), but she seeks her vocation for the wrong reason. She is told she cannot be a carver unless she is willing to learn the secrets of the animals she carves. Tiktala learns the meaning of empathy and compassion when she is turned into a harp seal and sees the world through other eyes.