You Were Made for This World: ­Celebrated Indigenous Voices Speak to Young ­People

Gr 5 Up–In a world where family histories are at our fingertips, this collection takes readers on a journey through what it means to be Indigenous. The book is organized by the elements of a medicine bundle: water, tobacco, cedar, sweetgrass, and sage. It has both visual elements and letters to Indigenous children from 40 artists, writers, activists, athletes, and more. As readers work their ways through the medicine bundle, the letters use personal stories and vulnerability to show young people that they are not alone in their feelings. Being of Indigenous descent comes with a different culture, a different language, and a different look. Most Indigenous people were told to hide what they were and to adapt to the people around them. The medicine bundle missives encourage kids to be who they are and to be proud. The visual component is stunning. Colorful, full-page artwork opens each entry; they are unique and fit the tone of each letter perfectly. Artists Chief Lady Bird and Christi Belcourt, illustrator Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley, and many more are featured. Each one has a different element and a different medium, but they all are brimming with meaning.