Stories shape the way children see the world—and the way they see themselves. For Indigenous and First Nations communities, storytelling has always been a vital way to pass down knowledge, honor culture, and keep traditions alive. Today, an incredible range of kids’ books are being written and illustrated by Indigenous authors and artists, offering young readers stories rooted in language, land, family, and identity.

In the spirit of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we’re shining a spotlight on 12 powerful children’s books by Indigenous and First Nations creators. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or simply someone who loves sharing meaningful stories with kids, these titles are a beautiful way to celebrate Indigenous voices, learn together, and inspire curiosity and respect in the next generation.

12 Indigenous and First Nations Kids Books to Read this Month

Children’s Books

I Sang You Down from the Stars by Tasha Spillett-Sumner and Michaela Goade
This book celebrates the connection between a mother and child, blending traditional teachings with modern life.
Mwâkwa Talks to the Loon: A Cree Story for Children
The award-winning story of a young Cree man blessed with the skills of a great hunter, who learns not to take his talents for granted.
Shi-shi-etko by Nicola I. Campbell
A young girl has the last few days at home before going to residential school; focuses on home, land, family, teachings.
Spirit Bear and Children Make History by Monique Gray Smith
When Spirit Bear's mom tells him about an important human rights case happening in Ottawa, Ontario, he makes the LONG trip (by train, his favourite way to travel) to go and watch, and to stand up for First Nations kids.
Askemawso by Lisa-Maude Aubin-Berube
The story follows a wəlastəkewi skitap (man) named Askəmawsit along with his friends, Mahtəkwehs and Kahkakohs. It is the story of his quest of finding long lost Kelowəskap, in hopes that he can grant Askəmawsit’s biggest wish to live forever.

*When We Were Alone* by David A. Robertson, illustrated by Julie Flett

A child asks her grandmother why she dresses a certain way / keeps her hair long / speaks Cree—grandmother explains through stories about her time in residential school, highlighting both sorrow and strength.

Middle Grade

The Barren Grounds by David A. Robertson
The first book in a fantasy series that introduces readers to Indigenous characters and settings.
Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults by Robin Wall Kimmerer and Monique Gray Smith
An adaptation of Kimmerer's work, this book offers young people insight into Indigenous knowledge and the importance of plants.
The Journey Forward, A Novella On Reconciliation
This the story of 12-year-old Dene Cho, who is angry that his people are losing their language, traditions, and ways of being. Elder Snowbird is there to answer some of Dene Cho’s questions, and to share their history including the impact Residential schools continue to have on their people. It is through this conversation with Snowbird that Dene Cho begins to find himself, and begins to realize that understanding the past can ultimately change the future.
Sugar Falls: A Residential School Story by David A. Robertson
Abandoned as a young child, Betsy was soon adopted into a loving family. A few short years later, at the age of 8, everything changed. Betsy was taken away to a residential school. There she was forced to endure abuse and indignity, but Betsy recalled the words her father spoke to her at Sugar Falls—words that gave her the resilience, strength, and determination to survive.