Recommended Reads for Native American Heritage Month

In order to create a more inclusive learning environment, it is crucial for educators to utilize a variety of contemporary resources that highlight the diverse aspects of American history and culture. With the recent buzz around the latest collaboration between renowned director Martin Scorsese and talented actor Leonardo DiCaprio, you might be seeking recommendations to enrich your lesson plans before Native American History Month in November. However, it is important to consider the appropriateness of materials for your particular classroom and students. Please note that most of the suggested readings mentioned below are intended for audiences aged 13 and above, so it is advisable to provide appropriate context and conduct thorough reviews before directly sharing them with students.


In 2014, Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz released an impactful book that examines the intricate relationship between European settlers and Native Nations over a span of 400 years. This insightful narrative serves as an essential resource, particularly for high school classrooms, offering valuable primary sources and a unique perspective. With the recently released 10th anniversary edition, readers can delve into the historical context and gain a broader understanding through the inclusion of global perspectives.

David Truer is a highly acclaimed author known for his compelling exploration of contemporary reservation life. With an intimate understanding of his Ojibwa heritage and his experiences on the Leech Lake reservation, Truer brings a fresh perspective to the historical context of Native American communities. His writings offer a vivid portrayal of the reservation as a microcosm of complex cultural interactions and the impact of Federal policies throughout the past two centuries. Journey into Truer’s literary world and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Native American life.

Louise Erdrich tells a compelling story of from the history of grandfather during the 1950s. It is a narrative that shows the dynamic social ques and chasms so many had to live through during the time of Termination on the Turtle Mountain Chippewa and what the new life would be like. This heartbreaking and uplifting story is about the families on the reservation and the leaders who fought to stop the termination of their tribal recognition by the federal government. The book has won multiple awards and I highly recommend the Audiobook version.

If you’ve been captivated by the recent collaboration between DiCaprio and Scorsese for the film “Killer of the Flower Moon,” I strongly suggest diving into the source material and delving into the pages of this captivating book. Currently, I’m engrossed in reading/listening to it, and I must say, it’s truly one of the most exceptional non-fiction works I’ve come across, shining a light on the early 20th Century. What sets this book apart is its ability to intertwine the murders and political events into a compelling narrative about the intricate workings of the early FBI and social strife experienced by the Osage nation.

Discover a captivating masterpiece that delves deep into the rich tapestry of Native American history. This remarkable compendium, a finalist for the prestigious National Book Award, spans over 800 pages, making it a substantial and enlightening read. Having had the privilege of exploring excerpts, I am eagerly anticipating immersing myself in the entirety of this compelling work. From the publisher: Blackhawk’s retelling of U.S. history acknowledges the enduring power, agency, and survival of Indigenous peoples, yielding a truer account of the United States and revealing anew the varied meanings of America.

Dee Brown’s groundbreaking book revolutionized the study of Native American history. With a shift in perspective, Brown’s narrative delves into the experiences and perspectives of the tribes in the American West during the 1800s and early 1900s. It offers readers a fresh and comprehensive understanding of the era. As a bonus, you can currently enjoy the audiobook version of this remarkable work for free on Audible.

This blog post along with others is part of my Diversity in the Classroom series. Each post is meant to help tell the story of individuals and groups sometimes lost in mainstream history. To read more and see other resources follow this link.

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