Everything You Wanted to Know About Indians But Were Afraid to Ask

February 15, 2021
Grades 5-8 Academic and Ojibwe author Treuer here adapts his 2012 adult title for young readers. Using a question-and-answer format arranged thematically (Terminology; History; Religion, Culture, and Identity; Powwow; Tribal Languages; Politics; Economics; Education; Social Activism; and Perspectives), he answers general queries ("What is the real story of Columbus?"), explains the more obscure ("What are allotments?"), and details sensitive inquiries ("What is Indian time?"). The arrangement allows for reading cover-to-cover or for researching specific topics; the writing is clear and concise, frequently augmented with personal examples. Treuer is careful to distinguish between facts and his opinions, often citing sources for his views. He doesn't sugarcoat the often-difficult history of Indigenous-settler relations, but neither does he scold, instead asking readers to acknowledge past mistakes and make better choices in the future. Appended with recommended reading and notes and illustrated with black-and-white photos (some archival, some personal), this is a thoughtful look at a complex subject that will be useful for both Indigenous and non--Indigenous readers and a welcome addition to most libraries.

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March 15, 2021
A plainspoken cultural guide for Natives and non-Natives alike. This collection of short essays about Native Americans is comprehensive, equitable, and generous. Structured around questions that distinguished scholar Treuer (Ojibwe) encounters in his public talks, the book addresses a range of topics: sovereignty, politics, language, music, religion, gender and sexuality, and more. Responses to founding events in America's history help counteract missing Native perspectives in school curricula. Written with a clear desire to heal misunderstandings and do away with stereotypes, the book uses photographs and anecdotes to illustrate the author's lessons. This edition adapted for teens is also updated, with coverage of current events, including the Covington Catholic High School scandal at the Lincoln Memorial, the Black Lives Matters movement, the Dakota Access Pipeline protest, progress with removing Native sports team mascots, and the Covid-19 pandemic. The author's tone is thoughtful as he asks readers to engage with challenging subjects: "All human beings have dark chapters in their personal histories. And all nations have dark chapters in theirs. Nobody should be stuck in shame. However, it is important for all countries and all individuals to examine dark chapters in order to learn from them and prevent them from reoccurring." While driven by facts, the book becomes personal whenever elements of the author's life peek through, giving readers a sense of his character and the commitment he brings to his work. Wise, well-researched, and not to be missed. (recommended reading, notes, photo credits, index) (Nonfiction. 12-18)

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