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First Nations Culture
Luka and Little Feather follows two First Nations siblings living on a reservation who discover a wishing stone that takes them on an underwater adventure. What was the inspiration for your story?
As an educator, I see the inequities in literature and I wanted to be the change. There are very few First Nations authors and very few stories that depict First Nations characters as the heroines of the story. I wanted to write a story that highlights First Nations culture while also providing a way for children to really “imagine and dream” of what it would be like to really find a wishing stone. Kids who live in survival mode need stories like this that enable them to look beyond the world as it is.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Language and culture are critical when it comes to understanding Native culture. Everything you see in the book has meaning. Their clothing, toys, posters on the walls, hair clips, etc… Every page also has a hidden message that highlights a Native cause… “We are still here,” “MMIW,” “honor the treaties” etc.. I want kids to see these hidden messages and ask… “what does that mean!?”
I am currently working on a supplemental First Nations curriculum based on the hidden messaging in the book. Teachers are starving for better and more culturally responsive ways to teach Indigenous studies, and this gives them a way that is current, fun, and less threatening.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Nix Doxtater
Nix is also Native and comes from the same tribe as myself. She understood how important it was to get the cultural aspects of the story right. She is a visionary and was able to capture my thoughts and ideas beautifully.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
We are hoping this story becomes a series. There are SO many places they could go! I am hopeful another Luka and Little Feather book can be published by 2026!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Amazon
While out exploring by the river, Luka finds something that will change their lives forever-a yotnʌyátku, or “magic stone.” Luka and Little Feather take it home, where they make their wish to see their beloved ocean. At first, this stone seems like just a plain old rock, but when they awake, they realize they have been transported to an underwater world of magic and amazement.
Together with their friend Whaliam, the girls explore the blue sea. The vibrant colors, new friends, food, and experiences are more than the girls could have ever asked for. However, Luka and Little Feather soon realize that even with their dream coming true, nothing is as extraordinary as the comforts of home.
Luka and Little Feather
Luka and Little Feather, written by Ashlee Alicea and illustrated by Nix Doxtater, is a charming children’s book that invites readers into the magical world of two First Nations siblings, Luka and Little Feather. Living on a reservation, they discover a “wishing stone” that takes them on an underwater adventure where they meet a talking whale, a turtle family, and a host of other sea creatures. This enchanting story blends the wonders of the ocean with the rich cultural heritage of Native American folklore, making it a delightful read for children and adults alike.
One of the standout features of this book is the seamless integration of cultural elements into a whimsical narrative. The story begins with Luka and Little Feather’s simple life on the reservation, introducing young readers to aspects of First Nations culture and language in an accessible way. The author’s ability to weave their heritage into the story, such as through the tale of Turtle Island, enriches the narrative and provides a meaningful context for their adventure. This cultural representation is not only educational but also fosters a sense of pride and identity for First Nations readers. The writing style of Ashlee Alicea is engaging and imaginative, perfectly suited for a young audience. The dialogue between Luka and Little Feather is natural and filled with a sense of wonder that is infectious. The author captures the sibling dynamic beautifully, showcasing their bond and shared curiosity. Additionally, the pacing of the story is well-balanced, with just the right amount of tension and excitement to keep readers captivated without overwhelming them. The illustrations by Nix Doxtater complement the story wonderfully. The vibrant, colorful depictions of underwater scenes and characters add depth to the narrative and help bring the magical world to life. Each page is a visual treat, and the attention to detail in the illustrations enhances the overall reading experience.
Luka and Little Feather is a delightful and enriching read that I would highly recommend. It is perfect for young readers who enjoy adventure and fantasy, and it also serves as a wonderful introduction to First Nations culture and folklore. This book is an excellent choice for parents and educators looking to diversify their children’s reading material with stories that celebrate cultural heritage and imagination.
Pages: 26 | ISBN : 1645385000
Finding Footprints
Finding Footprints: A Sasquatch Saga written by the team of Erik Daniel Shein, Melissa Davis, and Karen Fuller, is set in the lush Pacific Northwest, where protagonist Lily Evergreen, a hearing-impaired girl with a deep connection to her Native American roots, explores the enchanted forests accompanied by her service dog, Malachi. The narrative takes a fantastical turn as Lily uncovers a portal to another world and meets Winston, a young Bigfoot. Faced with the choice of embarking on a daring quest or returning to her familiar world, Lily grapples with the decision, her journey exploring themes of courage and cross-species friendship.
The story’s strength lies in its portrayal of Lily, who transcends her hearing impairment to engage with her environment in unique and insightful ways. Her friendship with Winston, characterized by non-verbal communication, beautifully illustrates the power of understanding beyond words. This narrative is a celebration of overcoming obstacles and forming unbreakable bonds. While the treatment of time in the story can sometimes seem fluid, with transitions between scenes that move swiftly, akin to a video game’s dynamic cutscenes, this narrative style adds a layer of briskness and excitement to the unfolding events.
The book’s concise length allows for a fast-paced journey that hints at deeper scenes and character developments, suggesting a broader world and story that could be expanded upon in future installments. This brevity ensures that readers are continually engaged, always anticipating more, and leaves them eager to explore more of the potentially epic moments and evolving friendships that lie within this rich narrative tapestry. The core of the story— the profound friendship between a girl, a Bigfoot, and a loyal dog—resonates deeply, emphasizing emotional connections without reliance on dialogue. The narrative is like a finely brewed cup of tea that has yet to reach its full flavor, yet it remains a commendable read for those interested in tales of adventure, cultural richness, and magical realism.
Finding Footprints: A Sasquatch Saga will engage young readers who are looking for an exciting and meaningful adventure that is rooted in folk tales and myths. It celebrates the beauty of diversity and the importance of friendship, especially those that are unexpected, and is sure to inspire and delight readers of all ages.
Pages: 154 | ASIN : B0CZ7WNG57
LITERARY TITAN 