Disclaimer :: This article contains affiliate links. Denton County Moms may receive a commission if you make a purchase using these links. Thanks for supporting our small business!
The land we call home is deeply rooted in the history and culture of the Indigenous peoples who lived here before us. This guide offers thoughtfully chosen resources for all ages, inviting everyone to connect with the vibrant and diverse stories of Native American history and contemporary life.
>> RELATED READ :: 8 DFW Museums & Historic Sites to Learn About Indigenous People <<
Books for Kids
Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story :: Kevin Noble Maillard :: This engaging picture book tells the story of a modern Native American family through the tradition of making fry bread. It combines a fun story with deeper themes about culture and identity.
Keepunumuk: Weeachumun’s Thanksgiving Story :: Danielle Greendeer, Anthony Perry, and Alexis Bunten :: Narrated by a grandmother, this story follows the tale of Weeachumun (corn) and how the Wampanoag people helped the pilgrims survive their first year.
We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga :: Traci Sorell :: This beautiful book introduces young readers to the seasonal celebrations of the Cherokee people, and emphasizes the concept of gratitude.
Books for Teens and Adults
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian :: Sherman Alexie :: A semi-autobiographical novel that tells the story of a 14 year old as he transfers from his school on the Spokane Tribe reservation to an all white high school. This novel addresses some mature themes, making it ideal for older teens and adults.
Braiding Sweetgrass:: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants :: Robin Wall Kimmerer :: Combining science and Native American traditions, this book offers insights into the relationship between humans and nature. It’s an intriguing read for adults and older teens interested in Indigenous perspectives on ecology and sustainability.
An Indigenous People’s History of the United States :: Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz :: This award-winning book offers a comprehensive look at United States history from the perspective of Indigenous peoples.
>> RELATED READ :: 15 Road Trips Worth the Drive from DFW :: Native American History Edition <<
Documentaries
Gather :: Netflix :: A beautiful documentary that explores the growing movement among Native Americans to reclaim their spiritual, cultural, and political identities through food sovereignty. It is suitable for teens and adults.
Reel Injun :: Prime Video :: A documentary that examines how Native Americans have been portrayed in films. It offers a critical look at stereotypes and how Indigenous filmmakers are reclaiming their stories. It is suitable for teens and adults.
Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World :: Prime Video :: This documentary explores the profound influence of Native Americans on popular music history, and highlights Native contributions to blues, jazz, and rock. It is suitable for older teens and adults.
>> RELATED READ :: 7 Events to Celebrate And Observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day in DFW <<
Movies and TV Shows for Kids
Molly of Denali :: PBS Kids :: An animated series that follows the adventures of Molly Mabray, a curious and resourceful 10-year-old Native Alaskan girl. Young viewers gain insights into Native heritage, and the importance of community and resilience.
Pachamama :: Netflix :: This stunning, animated adventure film follows the journey of two friends who set off on a quest to recover a stolen sacred statue. The film introduces viewers to the rich traditions found in Indigenous South American cultures, and is suitable for ages seven and up.
Pocahontas: Beyond the Myth :: Smithsonian channel :: A great introduction for older kids and teens that separates fact from fiction regarding the life of Pocahontas. This documentary provides a more historically accurate depiction of her life.
Spirit Rangers :: Netflix :: An animated series for preschoolers that celebrates Native American culture and storytelling through the eyes of three park rangers who are also secret spirit animals. It’s a delightful blend of adventure, education, and cultural pride.
Movies and TV Shows for Older Audiences
Echo :: Disney Plus+ :: A Marvel studios series centered around a deaf Native American woman with extraordinary abilities. Set within the Marvel cinematic universe, the show delves into themes of identity, heritage, and redemption.
Fry Bread Face and Me :: Netflix :: A film about a young Navajo boy who is sent to spend a summer with his grandmother and spirited cousin on a reservation. The movie explores the themes of identity, cultural pride, and the challenges of growing up.
Reservation Dogs :: Hulu :: This comedy-drama series follows four Indigenous teenagers growing up on a reservation in rural Oklahoma. The show is celebrated for its authentic portrayal of Native American culture, humor, and the complexities of adolescence.
Smoke Signals :: A humorous coming-of-age film that follows two Native American young men as they journey from their Idaho reservation to Arizona. This critically-acclaimed film is the first feature-length movie directed and acted by Native Americans.
Podcasts
All My Relations :: Hosted by two Native women who engage with topics like language, revitalization, land issues, and family dynamics, making it suitable for older teens and adults.
Warrior Kids Podcast :: Hosted by Dr. Pam Palmater, a Mi’kmaw professor, author, and advocate, each episode of this educational podcast is designed to empower children to become “warrior kids” who are respectfully active in making positive changes in their communities.
>> RELATED READ :: How to Celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day with Kids <<
Learn More from Home
National Museum of the American Indian :: This Smithsonian museum has online resources about the many tribes and groups that first inhabited our country. You can access and interact with the online collection to further educate yourself and your children.
Native Land Digital :: Want to learn more about the people who lived in your exact area of the map? Simply plug in your location to this website to find out which Native American tribes once lived where you live.
Tribe websites :: Many of the most credible resources are provided by individual tribes. You simply pick a tribe you want to learn more about, and then search for information on its own website. The Wichita and Affiliated Tribes website is a great resource to learn about the people who were local to this region.
YouTube and Video Channels :: Some tribes even have their own YouTube channels. For example, the Osage Nation and Chickasaw TV channels offer tribal history as well as recipes, crafts, and language examples.
DIY :: Speaking of recipes and crafts, your family can enjoy some of these arts in your own home. Try traditional Native recipes from tribal websites, or take up brick stitch beading and make traditional jewelry. These are just two examples of the kinds of things you can learn to do after researching Indigenous cultures.
