Author: Traci Sorell, Illustrator: Madelyn Goodnight
Charlesbridge 2022
Hardcover 32 Page Picture Book
River is recovering from an illness and is unable to dance in the tradition of Powwow Day. Her family and friends help River understand that they are dancing for their community, traditions and also for her.
A beautiful book about hope, disappointment, and courage.
This vibrant picture book begins with a small girl, hopeful that she can participate in the jingle dance during the Powwow, remembers that because of an illness she won’t be dancing this year. She’s sad that she can’t feel the beat of the drums, doesn’t have the energy to compete, and watches through tears as her friends and family connect to the drum, Mother Earth, and each other. The plot develops through creative text and is founded in an emotional connection that is both fascinating and endearing.
Though this reviewer has never attended a Powwow, I liked this book very much and learned a great deal. Family and community seem to be a driving force in the entire celebration and is a powerful theme. The illustrations are brightly colored, and even the ancillary characters are full of movement and flow. The backmatter of the book explains the history of the Jingle Dress and gives lots of information and various aspects of the Powwow. This book would be an excellent addition to classrooms everywhere and great for curriculum purposes any time of the year.
Powwow Day by Traci Sorell gets 5 stars from this reviewer.