Children of the First People: Fresh Voices of Alaska's Native Kids

Gr 2–5—An update to the 2006 title Children of the Midnight Sun introduces a new generation of Alaska Native children. Ten kids (most between nine and 12 years old) from the largest Alaska Native cultures are profiled. The two to three-page profiles feature the children engaged in familiar daily tasks and connecting with their culture. Gorgeous photographs show them in traditional regalia as well as participating in activities like jumping on a trampoline. Interspersed are snippets of Alaska Native history, such as the earthquakes and oil spills that shaped recent generations. These types of narratives that feature Native children in modern and traditional settings can help combat stereotypes and portray their experiences as both unique and universal. Due to the brevity of the profiles, they serve as more of an overview and may not fully capture all realities of Native life. However, for people unfamiliar with most of the culture, they serve as excellent ambassadors.