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For Young Readers: “Thunderous” by M.L. Smoker & Natalie Peeterse
November-December 2022 Featured Book for young readers
FOR YOUNG READERS: THUNDEROUS BY M.L. SMOKER & NATALIE PEETERSE
About the story: “If Aiyana hears one more traditional Lakota story, she’ll scream! More interested in her social media presence than her Native American heritage, Aiyana is shocked when she suddenly finds herself in the magical Spirit World-with no cell coverage! Pursued by the evil trickster Raven, Aiyana struggles to get back home, but is helped by friends and allies she meets along the way. Her dangerous journey through the Spirit World tests her fortitude and challenges her to embrace her Lakota roots. But will it be enough to defeat the cruel and powerful Raven?” Learn more on the book’s page.
Intended age: elementary & middle school
Why Carolyn picked this story to feature:This book was a really cool adventure into the Lakota Spirit World. The reader follows Aiyana as she is swept away into a parallel Badlands world with no people—just creatures that have a LOT to say. As Aiyana struggles to get home, she learns some important words in her native Lakota language, meets wonderful friends, and faces Raven.
Aiyana is a great character: she is tough and strong-willed. She loses her way but then finds her true self in the end. I really enjoyed how Aiyana is able to talk with Buffalo, Wolf, and Raven while she’s in the Spirit World. I also loved how Aiyana and her cousin navigate their tricky tween relationship.
Quote we love: This is a graphic novel, so the pictures go hand-in-hand with the words. The quote reads:
“The story of the chief who lost his arm.
And the story of a girl who lost her way.
Listen—through miles of wind. And snow. And the stars—
From the tops of mountain peaks
On the backs of animals,
She has found her way to you, Iktomi.
I had forgotten my name.
The land, the water helped me to remember.
A buffalo spoke it.
A wolf howled it.
A raven pricked it.
A spider wrapped a web around it.
I know now I want to be a good relative.
I am a good relative.”
Other Resources:
Bookshelf Artwork by Green Sparrow Arts
