PICTURE BOOKS

Spirit Shadow

by Ginger Reno (text) & illus. by Mary Lupton
Holiday House. Mar. 2026. 32p. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9780823453108. Gr 1-4
COPY ISBN
Gr 1-4–A Cherokee girl and her spirit shadow explore Diligwa, a recreated Cherokee village that helps her connect with her heritage and the stories of her ancestors. Through visits to traditional spaces and encounters with elements of Cherokee culture, she learns to embrace her identity and share her pride with others. The lyrical text has a gentle, storytelling tone, and the bright digital illustrations highlight important symbols and practices of the Cherokee people. However, key concepts—such as the meaning of the spirit shadow, which is not clarified until several pages in, and the seven clans, which are never explained—lack sufficient context for readers unfamiliar with Cherokee traditions. This may make it difficult for some audiences to fully grasp the story’s cultural and spiritual depth.
VERDICT An additional purchase for collections seeking more Indigenous representation.
Reviewed by Kirsten Caldwell , Jan 01, 2026

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