Angela Dalton Books, Picture Books

Children’s Book Review: We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga

Multiculturalism Rocks! Children’s Book Review: We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga
Book Title: We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga
 Author: Traci Sorell
 Illustrator: Frane Lessac (need to accent the e)
 Publisher: Charlesbridge
 Age Range: 3 to 7 years

OSIYO!
Pronounced OH-see-yo, this is how you say “Hello” in Cherokee. This is one of many 
vocabulary words to be learned in Traci Sorell’s exceptional debut book, and 2019 Sibert
Medal Honor Book, We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga. 
Otsaliheliga (oh-jah-LEE-hay-lee-gah) is the word for gratitude used by people of the 
Cherokee Nation and also the theme of this beautiful exploration of modern Native life. 
Set against the backdrop of the changing seasons, the narrator invites us to learn about 
the blessings and ceremonies celebrated throughout the year.
  
 “When cool breezes blow and leaves fall, we say otsaliheliga as shell shakers dance all 
night around the fire, and burnt cedar’s scent drifts upward during the Great New Moon 
Ceremony.” 
The narrator also reminds us of the monumental roles and contributions Cherokee 
citizens continue to provide this country.
  
 “When showers fill streams and shoots spring up, we say otsaliheliga as we embrace a 
clan relative heading off to serve our country.” 
The book is filled with wonderful vocabulary, cultural and history lessons; and, Lessac’s 
vibrant illustrations makes time spent with each page a truly absorbing experience. 
Above all, it serves as an important reminder that life is to be lived with gratitude. 
Learn More:
Traci Sorell
Frane Lessac
  
 Where to Buy: 
Cherokee Gift Shop
Indiebound.org
Charlesbridge

 You can also find it at your local library! #SupportYourLibrary
Angela Dalton Books, Picture Books

Children’s Book Review: Meet Yasmin!

Multiculturalism Rocks! Children’s Book Review: Meet Yasmin!
Book Title: Meet Yasmin!
 Author: Saadia Faruqi
 Illustrator: Hatem Aly
 Publisher: Picture Window Books
 Age Range: 5 to 8 years

If there were ever a main character that I was thrilled to meet, Yasmin is that character. 
And I'm equally elated to review Meet Yasmin! – a charming set of stories surrounding 
the adventures of this effervescent second-grader. 

 In Yasmin the Explorer, her Baba teaches her about maps and how every good explorer 
needs one. Excited by the prospect of becoming an explorer herself, Yasmin creates her 
own map as she and Mama head to the farmer’s market. But when they get separated, 
Yasmin must put her map to the test to find her.    
In Yasmin the Painter, Yasmin finds herself worrying about the upcoming art contest at 
school – especially because she doesn’t believe she’s very good at it. Even with the help
 of Baba and online painting videos, Yasmin has a hard time finding her confidence. But 
she must figure out a plan before the big competition. 
In the final story, Yasmin the Fashionista, she and Nana have a lot of fun playing dress 
up in Mama’s clothes while Mama and Baba are out. That is until they accidentally wreck 
her favorite kameez. Now Yasmin must use her creativity to figure out how fix it before 
her parents get home. 
Not only is this book brimming with girl power, Faruqi provides fantastic backmatter to 
teach young children about Pakistani culture; which includes facts and a recipe for 
Mango Lassi. The book also presents readers with discussion questions about the 
challenges Yasmin faces and what they would do if faced with the same obstacles.
  
 Aly’s vibrant illustrations perfectly match Yasmin’s bright and electric spirit. I highly 
recommend meeting Yasmin with your beginner readers. You’ll be glad you did.
 
Meet Yasmin! is perfect for: 
The future explorer
The future creator
The future fashionista

 Learn More:
Author Saadia Faruqi
Illustrator Hatem Aly

Where to Buy:
Picture Window Books
Indiebound.org