Manda and the Fish, by Noah Bella Michaelis, is a beautifully crafted story about resilience and determination. The narrative follows Manda, a young Oneida girl named after a river near her village, as she recounts a pivotal experience from her youth to the children of her tribe. Bound by the traditional gender roles of her culture, Manda watched her brothers and father hunt and fish while she planted seeds, made clothes, and performed other tasks. Despite this, her interest in fishing never waned. When she asked her father to teach her, he refused, citing tradition. However, after a poor fishing day for her family, Manda decided to defy convention and try fishing on her own, unaware of the potential consequences.

Noah Bella Michaelis has written a simple yet profound story that explores themes of self-confidence, facing fears, and the importance of communication and collaboration. The narrative is both exciting and intriguing, with well-defined characters whose interactions feel authentic and relatable. Manda’s story highlights the love within her family, despite differing opinions, and underscores the significance of courage, initiative, and curiosity. The text was reviewed by the Oneida Indian Nation, ensuring an accurate and respectful representation of Oneida culture. This cultural authenticity provides readers with valuable insight into Oneida traditions and values. While some character names may pose a challenge for readers, a pronunciation guide at the beginning of the book enhances its realism and accessibility. The illustrations beautifully capture a range of emotions and settings, further immersing readers in the story. The book’s exploration of gender equality and opportunities for all is truly inspiring, making Manda and the Fish a captivating and thought-provoking read.

Manda and the Fish is a captivating and thought-provoking tale that beautifully addresses themes of resilience, self-confidence, and the breaking of traditional gender roles. Noah Bella Michaelis weaves an engaging narrative that is both culturally authentic and emotionally resonant, making it a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and insight into the importance of bravery and curiosity.

Audio recordings spoken by an Oneida Indian Nation language instructor can be found here: https://www.livelikenoah.org/manda-and-the-fish

Pages: 48 | ISBN :  978-1665737210