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We Still Belong
A thoughtful and heartfelt middle grade novel by American Indian Youth Literature Honor–winning author Christine Day (Upper Skagit), about a girl whose hopeful plans for Indigenous Peoples’ Day (and plans to ask her crush to the school dance) go all wrong—until she finds herself surrounded by the love of her Indigenous family and community at an intertribal powwow. Wesley is proud of the poem she wrote for Indigenous Peoples’ Day—but the reaction from a teacher makes her wonder if expressing herself is important enough. And due to the specific tribal laws of her family’s Nation, Wesley is unable to enroll in the Upper Skagit tribe and is left feeling “not Native enough.” Through the course of the novel, with the help of her family and friends, she comes to embrace her own place within the Native community. Christine Day's debut, I Can Make This Promise , was an American Indian Library Association Youth Literature Award Honor Book, was named a Best Book of the Year by Kirkus , School Library Journal , the Chicago Public Library, and NPR, and was also picked as a Charlotte Huck Honor Book. Her sophomore novel, The Sea in Winter , was an American Indian Library Association Youth Literature Award Honor Book, as well as named a Best Book of the Year by Kirkus and School Library Journal. We Still Belong is an accessible, enjoyable, and important novel from an author who always delivers.
256 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2023
45 people are currently reading
4253 people want to read
About the author
Christine Day
7 books298 followersChristine Day (Upper Skagit) grew up in Seattle, nestled between the sea, the mountains, and the pages of her favorite books. Her debut novel, I CAN MAKE THIS PROMISE (Harper), was a best book of the year from Kirkus, School Library Journal, NPR, and the Chicago Public Library, as well as a Charlotte Huck Award Honor Book, and an American Indian Youth Literature Award Honor Book. Her second novel, THE SEA IN WINTER (Harper/Heartdrum), is coming to shelves on January 5, 2021. She also wrote the forthcoming SHE PERSISTED: MARIA TALLCHIEF (Philomel), an early reader biography in a new series inspired by Chelsea Clinton's bestselling picture book. Christine lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband.
Her work is represented by Suzie Townsend at New Leaf Literary & Media, Inc.
Her work is represented by Suzie Townsend at New Leaf Literary & Media, Inc.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
January 13, 2023
I received an ARC of “We Still Belong” from NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishers in exchange for an honest review. Prior to reading this middle grade novel, I had never read anything written by Christine Day. But I was attracted by the book’s title and the book’s description. It wasn’t until I actually began reading this book that I discovered what an excellent writer Day really is. And even though I read an uncorrected e-proof, I hope that both the editors and the publishers don’t change anything prior to publication.
The MC, 12-year-old Wesley, is Upper Skagit. Although Wesley is not an “official” tribal member according to the rolls, she is Upper Skagit both culturally and genealogically. The book’s title is named after a poem that Wesley wrote to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
Although the MC and her family are Native, there is so much diversity among the characters that this book will be of interest to many kids, and adults, nationwide. In fact, I would venture to say that if any authors are struggling with how to include diversity in their books, they should read “We Still Belong.” I can easily see how this novel will become a benchmark on how to effectively do so.
I have read many other authors who make ***big*** mistakes when trying to incorporate diversity into their books. Usually, authors will go out of their ways to hyper-identify characters. Other times, they will add in something, usually at the end of the book, because they might not know how to incorporate it. Some even choose to make the whole book out of ethnicity or gender or discrimination. When any of the above is done, the books becomes overpowering and preachy. Day’s approach is much more muted. And, consequently, much more interesting.
The author masterfully incorporated an outpouring of diversity with only just a few words, and then mirrored that in other places in the book. For example, readers are introduced to Wesley’s uncle by name only—Uncle Kenji—but it wasn’t until Chapter 38 that we actually learn about his Japanese heritage. Likewise, Day lets us know that Hanan is Wesley’s best friend. But it isn’t until Chapter 12 when the author tells readers that Hanan’s mother speaks with a Syrian accent. Day didn’t spend 50 paragraphs discussing their ethnicity and/or backstories. She didn’t need to. The author added in just enough to let readers know without preaching about it.
Day doesn’t rely on the ‘I’m-different-and-everybody-hates-me-because-of-it’ trope. I’ve read books that do, and each time it was a disappointing read. Wesley discovers that people have a tendency to ignore Indigenous Peoples’ Day. This bothers Wesley, but she doesn’t harp on it. Likewise, the author doesn’t use this to scold non-Indigenous people. Instead, Day used this as an opportunity to reintroduce characters from earlier in the novel—characters that *do* understand and appreciate this holiday.
What I really love about this book is that the author takes a deep look at stereotypes without forcing readers to listen to a lecture. When a new girl at school (Skye) appears, Wesley doesn’t pay much attention to the girl with red hair, blue eyes, and white skin. But when Wesley sees that same girl dressed up as a Jingle Dress Dancer and learns that she’s Choctaw, it opens readers eyes that not all Natives can be stereotyped with black hair, brown eyes, and dark skin. I used to live on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and can tell you from first-hand experience that there is a huge amount of genetic diversity among Native peoples. I also really appreciate how the author revealed non-traditional extended families. You see this all the time, not just on reservations and among Native peoples, but around the world.
After reading the first few chapters, I really liked the MC. But when Wesley was faced with following her own needs and wants (asking Ryan to the dance), she chose compassion instead by following the emotionally wounded almost-nemesis Ella to the bathroom. There is so much to love about Wesley. And I see so much of myself in her. With so much diverse mixing of ethnicities in the country, I can see kids (and adults!) being really attracted to this book and falling in love with the character. Like Wesley, I am also mixed—a beautiful mix of European, Native American (Shawnee-Delaware) and Jewish. I never think of myself like that, but Day’s book makes me feel proud of myself. Like Wesley, I am unenrollable. But also like Wesley’s family, my son IS enrollable (Oglala). Our enrollment status doesn’t doesn’t define us, and Day makes this statement loud and clear.
When I first began reading this book, I was concerned because Wesley seemed preoccupied with asking Ryan to the school dance. In the past, I have been really disappointed when some authors made 12-year-olds boy crazy. But this ‘puppy love’ was completely appropriate. There is *never* a kiss in this book; only a hug. Likewise, there is no cursing.
I love how the author talks about fry bread at the powwow. In South Dakota, though, no powwow (or yard sale or birthday party or wake or anything really) was complete without Indian Tacos. Day’s descriptions made me feel like I was there. And like Wesley, the Grand Entry is one of my favorite parts (besides the hand drum competition!) I will admit to having an owl ‘superstition’; when you see an owl, it means somebody is going to die! And if one lands on your house, them OMG! I know folks on Pine Ridge who get so freaked out that they won’t even make a fan with owl feathers (and I don’t blame them!) My son, on the other hand, is a lot like Wesley’s grandpa—owls are just birds!
Wesley is brave and compassionate. She chooses to be kind. I could not ask for a better main character. Christine Day is an excellent writer and plotter. From what I’ve found, Day primarily writes books with a Native slant. I must admit that I love these types of stories. But to be perfectly honest, Day is far too talented to box herself into any corner or genre. If she were to push herself beyond these Native-only writing boundaries and invest in writing a more mainstream novel series, I can see her becoming a household name of PJ and HP fame. She is **that** good of a writer.
I recommend this book to everyone and especially to other writers as an example of how to incorporate diversity (both ethnic and gender) into their stories.
The MC, 12-year-old Wesley, is Upper Skagit. Although Wesley is not an “official” tribal member according to the rolls, she is Upper Skagit both culturally and genealogically. The book’s title is named after a poem that Wesley wrote to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
Although the MC and her family are Native, there is so much diversity among the characters that this book will be of interest to many kids, and adults, nationwide. In fact, I would venture to say that if any authors are struggling with how to include diversity in their books, they should read “We Still Belong.” I can easily see how this novel will become a benchmark on how to effectively do so.
I have read many other authors who make ***big*** mistakes when trying to incorporate diversity into their books. Usually, authors will go out of their ways to hyper-identify characters. Other times, they will add in something, usually at the end of the book, because they might not know how to incorporate it. Some even choose to make the whole book out of ethnicity or gender or discrimination. When any of the above is done, the books becomes overpowering and preachy. Day’s approach is much more muted. And, consequently, much more interesting.
The author masterfully incorporated an outpouring of diversity with only just a few words, and then mirrored that in other places in the book. For example, readers are introduced to Wesley’s uncle by name only—Uncle Kenji—but it wasn’t until Chapter 38 that we actually learn about his Japanese heritage. Likewise, Day lets us know that Hanan is Wesley’s best friend. But it isn’t until Chapter 12 when the author tells readers that Hanan’s mother speaks with a Syrian accent. Day didn’t spend 50 paragraphs discussing their ethnicity and/or backstories. She didn’t need to. The author added in just enough to let readers know without preaching about it.
Day doesn’t rely on the ‘I’m-different-and-everybody-hates-me-because-of-it’ trope. I’ve read books that do, and each time it was a disappointing read. Wesley discovers that people have a tendency to ignore Indigenous Peoples’ Day. This bothers Wesley, but she doesn’t harp on it. Likewise, the author doesn’t use this to scold non-Indigenous people. Instead, Day used this as an opportunity to reintroduce characters from earlier in the novel—characters that *do* understand and appreciate this holiday.
What I really love about this book is that the author takes a deep look at stereotypes without forcing readers to listen to a lecture. When a new girl at school (Skye) appears, Wesley doesn’t pay much attention to the girl with red hair, blue eyes, and white skin. But when Wesley sees that same girl dressed up as a Jingle Dress Dancer and learns that she’s Choctaw, it opens readers eyes that not all Natives can be stereotyped with black hair, brown eyes, and dark skin. I used to live on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and can tell you from first-hand experience that there is a huge amount of genetic diversity among Native peoples. I also really appreciate how the author revealed non-traditional extended families. You see this all the time, not just on reservations and among Native peoples, but around the world.
After reading the first few chapters, I really liked the MC. But when Wesley was faced with following her own needs and wants (asking Ryan to the dance), she chose compassion instead by following the emotionally wounded almost-nemesis Ella to the bathroom. There is so much to love about Wesley. And I see so much of myself in her. With so much diverse mixing of ethnicities in the country, I can see kids (and adults!) being really attracted to this book and falling in love with the character. Like Wesley, I am also mixed—a beautiful mix of European, Native American (Shawnee-Delaware) and Jewish. I never think of myself like that, but Day’s book makes me feel proud of myself. Like Wesley, I am unenrollable. But also like Wesley’s family, my son IS enrollable (Oglala). Our enrollment status doesn’t doesn’t define us, and Day makes this statement loud and clear.
When I first began reading this book, I was concerned because Wesley seemed preoccupied with asking Ryan to the school dance. In the past, I have been really disappointed when some authors made 12-year-olds boy crazy. But this ‘puppy love’ was completely appropriate. There is *never* a kiss in this book; only a hug. Likewise, there is no cursing.
I love how the author talks about fry bread at the powwow. In South Dakota, though, no powwow (or yard sale or birthday party or wake or anything really) was complete without Indian Tacos. Day’s descriptions made me feel like I was there. And like Wesley, the Grand Entry is one of my favorite parts (besides the hand drum competition!) I will admit to having an owl ‘superstition’; when you see an owl, it means somebody is going to die! And if one lands on your house, them OMG! I know folks on Pine Ridge who get so freaked out that they won’t even make a fan with owl feathers (and I don’t blame them!) My son, on the other hand, is a lot like Wesley’s grandpa—owls are just birds!
Wesley is brave and compassionate. She chooses to be kind. I could not ask for a better main character. Christine Day is an excellent writer and plotter. From what I’ve found, Day primarily writes books with a Native slant. I must admit that I love these types of stories. But to be perfectly honest, Day is far too talented to box herself into any corner or genre. If she were to push herself beyond these Native-only writing boundaries and invest in writing a more mainstream novel series, I can see her becoming a household name of PJ and HP fame. She is **that** good of a writer.
I recommend this book to everyone and especially to other writers as an example of how to incorporate diversity (both ethnic and gender) into their stories.
March 13, 2024
I loved this middle grade by Christine Day. She does such a great job of writing characters who grab at my heartstrings. I loved the family represented in this story and how they supported each other. Loved that our main character was so excited about her poem highlighting Indigenous People's Day was in the school paper. Always a bummer to see teachers and other students being unkind and basically ignorant, but that is why books like this are so important. I don't know much about the Upper Skagit people, but I know a bit more now that I've read this book. Loved getting the glimpse into the pow wow at the end. And the little bit of a crush/relationship felt very appropriate for middle school. A delight of a book and a 4 star read for me.
December 31, 2023
Another great middle grade book from Christine Day! Wesley has a bunch of plans for how Indigenous Peoples’ Day is supposed to go, but things end up going off course. I enjoyed how this story combined things like crushes, new friends, video games, and school dances with Wesley’s opinions about Indigenous Peoples’ Day, not feeling Native enough, and the history of why her dad is not present in her life.
I didn’t love this book quite as much as Christine Day’s other books because I felt like having the story take place over one day made the story seem a bit constrained and rushed at times. Of course there are memories and flashbacks of things that happened previously, but I would’ve liked to follow Wesley over a larger period of time. But all in all I still had a great time with this book.
I didn’t love this book quite as much as Christine Day’s other books because I felt like having the story take place over one day made the story seem a bit constrained and rushed at times. Of course there are memories and flashbacks of things that happened previously, but I would’ve liked to follow Wesley over a larger period of time. But all in all I still had a great time with this book.
August 18, 2023
Wesley Wilder was excited to see her poem about Indigenous People Day in her local middle school newspaper. Unfortunately, no one seemed to care about the holiday and made her day ruined. Will she still be able to celebrate the holiday and be proud to be who she is regardless of what people think and will she be able to ask Ryan Thomas out to the dance? Read on and find out for yourself.
This was a pretty good Middle grade read about being proud to be who you are and more. If you like these types of reads, then be sure to check this book out at your local library and wherever books and eBooks are sold.
This was a pretty good Middle grade read about being proud to be who you are and more. If you like these types of reads, then be sure to check this book out at your local library and wherever books and eBooks are sold.
August 26, 2023
A timely book on diversity/heritage/identity and the digital world we all can relate with.
I can feel the absence of a parent while being present there. Also, all the love and support only one parent trying their best to give to their child despite the negligence of the other parent.
This book is written well and a good one to start with if you want to start reading or introducing middle grade contemporary books to someone younger.
I love the multicultural perspective as well as the family dynamics representation even though it is based on a broken relationship between the parents. There’s a touch of family warmth, nurturing school environment and unlikely friendship. I love the book for these reasons. However, I wanted more for each of these themes.
Yes, there’s a poetry part which made me emotional.
Looking forward to read more books from the author.
I can feel the absence of a parent while being present there. Also, all the love and support only one parent trying their best to give to their child despite the negligence of the other parent.
This book is written well and a good one to start with if you want to start reading or introducing middle grade contemporary books to someone younger.
I love the multicultural perspective as well as the family dynamics representation even though it is based on a broken relationship between the parents. There’s a touch of family warmth, nurturing school environment and unlikely friendship. I love the book for these reasons. However, I wanted more for each of these themes.
Yes, there’s a poetry part which made me emotional.
Looking forward to read more books from the author.
January 1, 2025
What a nice way to start off the new year. This is a very sweet book full of characters that I really cared about. It is a bit didactic at times, but I didn't care about that as much as I usually do because I liked the characters (and the message) so much.
December 22, 2022
We Still Belong is a wonderful, heartfelt book that’s easy to fly through. Wesley is an important character, and I’m excited to show her to kids at my store. There’s so many good conversations going on in this book and Christine Day juggled all of them perfectly. I’m really looking forward to reading her other books now!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
October 8, 2025
"But no matter what games they play, always remember this: We still belong. We still belong. We still belong."
Siapa sangka ada banyak peristiwa terjadi dalam satu hari tepatnya pada Indigenous Peoples' Day dalam hidup seorang anak kelas tujuh bernama Wesley Wilder? Dari yang mematahkan sampai menyenangkan hati, kita akan ikut dilibatkan. Termasuk kilas balik ke hari-hari penuh keributan ketika sang ayah berusaha memasuki hidupnya, atau momen konyol ketika ia dan Hanan sahabatnya ribut menentukan klub yang sama, juga babak awal cinta pertama yang tumbuh di club gaming ketika ia bertemu Ryan Thomas!
Wesley berharap Indigenous Peoples' Day diperingati dengan ucapan di sekolahnya, pun dengan puisi ciptaannya yang dimuat di media untuk diapresiasi Mr.Holt, gurunya. Sayang, perayaan tersebut tidak di-mention oleh PA system, bahkan Mr.Holt mengerdilkan karya Wesley dan justru menyinggung isu lain yang lebih kontroversial. Hati Wesley kembali luka ketika mengetahui seseorang telah lebih dulu mengajak Ryan Thomas pergi ke TOLO atau school dance. Cukup kompleks, tapi Wesley mampu menemukan makna tersembunyi serta keberanian untuk menghadapinya. Bagiku, karakter Wesley ini mewakili anak-anak seusianya yang tenang dan bijaksana, aku tidak menemukan bagian di mana dirinya mengekspresikan rasa marah berlebihan.
Ceritanya juga mengangkat pengalaman komunitas Native American beserta tradisi mereka saat powwow. Ada edukasi sedikit terkait residental school, bagian dari genosida budaya yang bikin sebagian Native American lupa sama bahasa asli mereka dan sejarah tentang ide perbudakan Columbus.
Wesley merasa dirinya tidak cukup native, sebab untuk terdaftar secara resmi dalam sebuah suku, seseorang harus memenuhi ukuran blood quantum. Wesley cuma 1/4. Anyway, sebenarnya ini aturan buatan kolonial, bukan orang native itu sendiri.
"For most Natives, family names and relations are far more important than blood quantum."
Meski tidak tebal, kehangatan keluarga Wilder mampu meninggalkan kesan. Kemunculan Ryan di akhir mengingatkanku pada manisnya romansa masa tanggung.
"I ramble around you a lot."
"Will the girl I like be here? Does she go to powwows?"
Siapa sangka ada banyak peristiwa terjadi dalam satu hari tepatnya pada Indigenous Peoples' Day dalam hidup seorang anak kelas tujuh bernama Wesley Wilder? Dari yang mematahkan sampai menyenangkan hati, kita akan ikut dilibatkan. Termasuk kilas balik ke hari-hari penuh keributan ketika sang ayah berusaha memasuki hidupnya, atau momen konyol ketika ia dan Hanan sahabatnya ribut menentukan klub yang sama, juga babak awal cinta pertama yang tumbuh di club gaming ketika ia bertemu Ryan Thomas!
Wesley berharap Indigenous Peoples' Day diperingati dengan ucapan di sekolahnya, pun dengan puisi ciptaannya yang dimuat di media untuk diapresiasi Mr.Holt, gurunya. Sayang, perayaan tersebut tidak di-mention oleh PA system, bahkan Mr.Holt mengerdilkan karya Wesley dan justru menyinggung isu lain yang lebih kontroversial. Hati Wesley kembali luka ketika mengetahui seseorang telah lebih dulu mengajak Ryan Thomas pergi ke TOLO atau school dance. Cukup kompleks, tapi Wesley mampu menemukan makna tersembunyi serta keberanian untuk menghadapinya. Bagiku, karakter Wesley ini mewakili anak-anak seusianya yang tenang dan bijaksana, aku tidak menemukan bagian di mana dirinya mengekspresikan rasa marah berlebihan.
Ceritanya juga mengangkat pengalaman komunitas Native American beserta tradisi mereka saat powwow. Ada edukasi sedikit terkait residental school, bagian dari genosida budaya yang bikin sebagian Native American lupa sama bahasa asli mereka dan sejarah tentang ide perbudakan Columbus.
Wesley merasa dirinya tidak cukup native, sebab untuk terdaftar secara resmi dalam sebuah suku, seseorang harus memenuhi ukuran blood quantum. Wesley cuma 1/4. Anyway, sebenarnya ini aturan buatan kolonial, bukan orang native itu sendiri.
"For most Natives, family names and relations are far more important than blood quantum."
Meski tidak tebal, kehangatan keluarga Wilder mampu meninggalkan kesan. Kemunculan Ryan di akhir mengingatkanku pada manisnya romansa masa tanggung.
"I ramble around you a lot."
"Will the girl I like be here? Does she go to powwows?"
August 10, 2023
I LITERALLY LOVE CHRISTINE DAY SO MUCH😭
Her books are just so soft and warm and lovely and domestic and comforting and I just adore them! I could read so many more books about Wesley and her family and her friends and I thought this book was utterly precious🥹🥰❤️🩹 The author's note at the end is also phenomenal, btw and I HIGHLY recommend this book (and this author) overall!!!!🩷💕✨️
Her books are just so soft and warm and lovely and domestic and comforting and I just adore them! I could read so many more books about Wesley and her family and her friends and I thought this book was utterly precious🥹🥰❤️🩹 The author's note at the end is also phenomenal, btw and I HIGHLY recommend this book (and this author) overall!!!!🩷💕✨️
November 25, 2024
This was a really great read that touched on several important issues and was so well-written. It felt so natural, strong, and positive. I loved reading about each of the characters and learning about Wesley and her family and her friends. I will absolutely read more from Christine Day!
March 11, 2023
I was sent this arc from NetGalley for my honest review.
Wesley is a middle school girl. She lives with her single mom in her grandfather’s house. She likes video games and is shy. Wesley has many obstacles to overcome. She wants to be excepted. She struggles with her acceptance as 1/4 and not full Native American, her absent father, and her middle school crush. I appreciated how Wesley took strides to overcome her insecurities but still expressed her feelings of fear. That is the definition of courage.
I think this story has many good qualities in the characters and the plot. I would recommend it to others.
Wesley is a middle school girl. She lives with her single mom in her grandfather’s house. She likes video games and is shy. Wesley has many obstacles to overcome. She wants to be excepted. She struggles with her acceptance as 1/4 and not full Native American, her absent father, and her middle school crush. I appreciated how Wesley took strides to overcome her insecurities but still expressed her feelings of fear. That is the definition of courage.
I think this story has many good qualities in the characters and the plot. I would recommend it to others.
October 24, 2023
This was ultimately a really heartwarming school story and a great window/mirror book to show that indigenous kids might not all "look" indigenous. I also liked the subplot about her watching game streamers--I think that will resonate with a lot of kids.
August 2, 2023
This was such a lovely, bighearted middle grade novel about Wesley, a young Indigenous girl who loves poetry and is trying to highlight her heritage for Indigenous Peoples' Day. I loved the emphasis in this book on different kinds of families (Wesley lives with her single mother and other extended family members) and ways of belonging.
The author also tackles important topics about not feeling 'good enough' as relating to tribal membership. Wesley's mother is only part Indigenous and her father was white so she doesn't qualify as "Native enough" to be an official member of the Upper Skagit tribe. Despite this, the book still does a great job showing there is more than one way to feel belonging. There is also great allyship from Wesley's friends and her crush, despite the lack of official school support for her poetry.
Part of the new Heartdrum imprint, this was another fantastic #ownvoices title that highlights Indigenous characters and culture. Great on audio with notes by both the author and editor of the series. Highly recommended, especially for fans of books like Rabbit chase by Elizabeth LaPensée.
The author also tackles important topics about not feeling 'good enough' as relating to tribal membership. Wesley's mother is only part Indigenous and her father was white so she doesn't qualify as "Native enough" to be an official member of the Upper Skagit tribe. Despite this, the book still does a great job showing there is more than one way to feel belonging. There is also great allyship from Wesley's friends and her crush, despite the lack of official school support for her poetry.
Part of the new Heartdrum imprint, this was another fantastic #ownvoices title that highlights Indigenous characters and culture. Great on audio with notes by both the author and editor of the series. Highly recommended, especially for fans of books like Rabbit chase by Elizabeth LaPensée.
March 26, 2025
One of the better lone stars
November 25, 2023
4.5 A touching, powerful story told in the day of the life of an indigenous 6th grader. This was my first time reading Christine Day’s work, but it won’t be my last.
April 26, 2024
We Still Belong is a really wonderful story encapsulating just a few days of a middle schooler's experience. It has some classic middle school experiences (asking a boy to a dance and video games both feature prominently), but the real strenght of this book lies in the depth and nuance with which it explores the identity and experiences of Wesley, a descendent of the Upper Skagit Nation as she explores and grapples with her identity in her school, her immediate family, and in the native community. A real triumph of a book
September 19, 2025
Christine Day needs more hype!!!
CW: Brief depiction of abuse, references to: slavery, colonization
CW: Brief depiction of abuse, references to: slavery, colonization
August 15, 2023
How appropriate is it that this book, which spans the course of a single day, was also read in the course of a single day?
I absolutely treasured this. It was a sweet middle grade crush story, with incredible and fun gamer tie ins, but most especially, I adored how this book took place on Indigenous Peoples' Day and the conversations around issues facing the Native American communities in the United States - the loss of language, boarding schools, racism -- to say nothing at all about the titular phrase, "We Still Belong."
Wesley has found her voice through writing and publishing a poem on the importance of Native peoples in the world while often not reflected in 'stats' - except so many people do not seem to have read it. One teacher even suggests her poem didn't have a theme (because it didn't offer him - suggested subtly - a chance to debate whether or not Columbus Day should be replaced by Indigenous Peoples' Day.
The powwow at the end offers Wesley a chance to let her community hear her words, and its an incredible moment of inclusion, especially as Wesley struggles to feel like she belongs in the Native community since she doesn't have enough Native blood in her to 'count.' (and there's a beautiful author's note explaining hte complexities of the blood quantum - a colonial invention used to one day strip tribes of their rights - but also a framework that can keep people out) As someone who is not considered a 'part' of their people by some members of it, I related to that bit a lot. I'm glad that Wesley felt her strong connection despite the confusion, heartache and struggles at not being 'official' in everyone's eyes.
THis book brought so many tears to my eyes. It's sheer beauty, tied together perfectly, and it's highly highly highly recommended.
I absolutely treasured this. It was a sweet middle grade crush story, with incredible and fun gamer tie ins, but most especially, I adored how this book took place on Indigenous Peoples' Day and the conversations around issues facing the Native American communities in the United States - the loss of language, boarding schools, racism -- to say nothing at all about the titular phrase, "We Still Belong."
Wesley has found her voice through writing and publishing a poem on the importance of Native peoples in the world while often not reflected in 'stats' - except so many people do not seem to have read it. One teacher even suggests her poem didn't have a theme (because it didn't offer him - suggested subtly - a chance to debate whether or not Columbus Day should be replaced by Indigenous Peoples' Day.
The powwow at the end offers Wesley a chance to let her community hear her words, and its an incredible moment of inclusion, especially as Wesley struggles to feel like she belongs in the Native community since she doesn't have enough Native blood in her to 'count.' (and there's a beautiful author's note explaining hte complexities of the blood quantum - a colonial invention used to one day strip tribes of their rights - but also a framework that can keep people out) As someone who is not considered a 'part' of their people by some members of it, I related to that bit a lot. I'm glad that Wesley felt her strong connection despite the confusion, heartache and struggles at not being 'official' in everyone's eyes.
THis book brought so many tears to my eyes. It's sheer beauty, tied together perfectly, and it's highly highly highly recommended.
February 13, 2024
Read this for my YA novel class. I like the idea of discussing these issues with young kids, my only issue is the main character felt a lot older than she was, and many things could have been shorter/the author could have spent more time on other aspects that felt more relevant.
August 23, 2023
This would be a great read for students for Indigenous Peoples Day!
October 26, 2023
A sweet middle-grade novel about a young woman finding solace in her family, her heritage, and her own unique voice, after a particularly rough day.
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February 20, 2024disclaimer: I don’t really give starred reviews. I hope my reviews provide enough information to let you know if a book is for you or not. Find me here: https://linktr.ee/bookishmillennial
This was such a lovely middle-grade coming-of-age story about Wesley, a 7th grader who lives with her single mom at her grandfather's home. She is Upper Skagit, but is not officially an enrolled tribe member and grapples with feelings of belonging and being "othered". Her poem celebrating Indigenous People's Day is being published in the school newspaper, and she is going to ask her crush Jake out to the school dance. However, things go awry and it begins a journey of exploration for Wesley, as she examines her family, her roots, her beliefs, and has impactful conversations with her mom and her grandpa.
Wesley's conversations with her grandpa about what he believes were so tender! She is trying to figure out her beliefs as far as the afterlife, ghosts, spirits, and whatnot because she is curious about her grandma (who has passed). Instead of forcing Wesley to adopt his beliefs, her grandpa asks guiding, open questions instead and trusts Wesley enough to come to her own conclusions. I rarely see this kind of adult/child interaction IRL, and am so happy to see this kind of open dialogue represented in middle grade novels.
Wesley's experience with her biological father is a darker part of the novel, but it provided the impetus for an important conversation between Wesley and her mom about what we deserve in partnerships. I could absolutely feel the care and respect that Wesley and her mom shared for each other. I generally appreciated how Wesley was curious, thoughtful, and generous in her ruminations on these experiences. She was never too judgmental or quick to choose anger; she almost always chose curiosity, which is a beautiful trait for not only a 12-year-old, but for any human to have.
I really appreciated the disclaimers and author's note at the very end, which provided commentary on the processes to become an officially enrolled tribe member. Day recognizes the integrity and respect for those processes, but feels they ultimately embody colonization rather than the spirit of indigenous people. I find it incredibly brave that she is calling her community in, and she hopes that one day, they will move towards more truly indigenous practices when it comes to who "belongs".
I will absolutely be reading more from Christine Day!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Colonisation, Gaslighting, and Racism
Minor: Genocide
This was such a lovely middle-grade coming-of-age story about Wesley, a 7th grader who lives with her single mom at her grandfather's home. She is Upper Skagit, but is not officially an enrolled tribe member and grapples with feelings of belonging and being "othered". Her poem celebrating Indigenous People's Day is being published in the school newspaper, and she is going to ask her crush Jake out to the school dance. However, things go awry and it begins a journey of exploration for Wesley, as she examines her family, her roots, her beliefs, and has impactful conversations with her mom and her grandpa.
Wesley's conversations with her grandpa about what he believes were so tender! She is trying to figure out her beliefs as far as the afterlife, ghosts, spirits, and whatnot because she is curious about her grandma (who has passed). Instead of forcing Wesley to adopt his beliefs, her grandpa asks guiding, open questions instead and trusts Wesley enough to come to her own conclusions. I rarely see this kind of adult/child interaction IRL, and am so happy to see this kind of open dialogue represented in middle grade novels.
Wesley's experience with her biological father is a darker part of the novel, but it provided the impetus for an important conversation between Wesley and her mom about what we deserve in partnerships. I could absolutely feel the care and respect that Wesley and her mom shared for each other. I generally appreciated how Wesley was curious, thoughtful, and generous in her ruminations on these experiences. She was never too judgmental or quick to choose anger; she almost always chose curiosity, which is a beautiful trait for not only a 12-year-old, but for any human to have.
I really appreciated the disclaimers and author's note at the very end, which provided commentary on the processes to become an officially enrolled tribe member. Day recognizes the integrity and respect for those processes, but feels they ultimately embody colonization rather than the spirit of indigenous people. I find it incredibly brave that she is calling her community in, and she hopes that one day, they will move towards more truly indigenous practices when it comes to who "belongs".
I will absolutely be reading more from Christine Day!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Colonisation, Gaslighting, and Racism
Minor: Genocide
June 25, 2023
I was sent this ARC from NetGalley and HarperCollins in exchange for an honest review.
Wesley Wilder is a descendant of the Upper Skagit Indian Tribe who is excited for school on Indigenous Peoples Day for a couple different reasons. She is having a poem that she wrote about Indigenous Peoples Day published in the school newspaper and she is planning on asking her crush, Ryan, to a school dance called Tolo.
Wesley is an easy character to like immediately and grows as her day goes on. While the subtext of being Indigenous is important, it is not overly done in the story. The most important lesson that Wesley comes to learn is one that everyone, no matter their age, race, gender should learn, kindness. Wesley chooses compassion and empathy in a moment where she could’ve chosen to be selfish. “It’s impossible to know what other people are going through. You never really know who might be hurting. What pain and stories they might be carrying in their hearts. But it is always possible to be kind.” What better lesson to share with a young reader?
Day writes with such honesty and integrity that it’s impossible to finish the book and not think about it and want to share it. I only wish there had been more books like this when I was growing up but I am proud to be able to share this with my children and grandchildren!
Wesley Wilder is a descendant of the Upper Skagit Indian Tribe who is excited for school on Indigenous Peoples Day for a couple different reasons. She is having a poem that she wrote about Indigenous Peoples Day published in the school newspaper and she is planning on asking her crush, Ryan, to a school dance called Tolo.
Wesley is an easy character to like immediately and grows as her day goes on. While the subtext of being Indigenous is important, it is not overly done in the story. The most important lesson that Wesley comes to learn is one that everyone, no matter their age, race, gender should learn, kindness. Wesley chooses compassion and empathy in a moment where she could’ve chosen to be selfish. “It’s impossible to know what other people are going through. You never really know who might be hurting. What pain and stories they might be carrying in their hearts. But it is always possible to be kind.” What better lesson to share with a young reader?
Day writes with such honesty and integrity that it’s impossible to finish the book and not think about it and want to share it. I only wish there had been more books like this when I was growing up but I am proud to be able to share this with my children and grandchildren!
August 17, 2023
A MG novel perfect to read during Indigenous People’s Day or Indigenous People’s Month.
💌
Wesley got her poem in the school newspaper for Indigenous People’s Day called We Still Belong. She’s so proud until a teacher tells her she should have argued the other side in favor of Columbus Day too. This upsets Wesley, who is 1/4 Upper Skagit and thus, can’t enroll in the tribe. As she navigates these feelings, as well as a crush and family drama, she learns what’s really important.
🎮
We don’t have enough indigenous stories so I’m always thrilled when I see one from @bychristineday I also don’t think we have enough middle grade books about crushes and romance. This novel did a great job of sharing culture, history and age appropriate relationship issues. Be sure to read the author’s note too. This title released two weeks ago and should be in your library!
CW: microaggressions, racism, anger issues, parental abandonment, divorce themes
Loved the representation, but the story felt too much on the surface without really diving into the issues.
💌
Wesley got her poem in the school newspaper for Indigenous People’s Day called We Still Belong. She’s so proud until a teacher tells her she should have argued the other side in favor of Columbus Day too. This upsets Wesley, who is 1/4 Upper Skagit and thus, can’t enroll in the tribe. As she navigates these feelings, as well as a crush and family drama, she learns what’s really important.
🎮
We don’t have enough indigenous stories so I’m always thrilled when I see one from @bychristineday I also don’t think we have enough middle grade books about crushes and romance. This novel did a great job of sharing culture, history and age appropriate relationship issues. Be sure to read the author’s note too. This title released two weeks ago and should be in your library!
CW: microaggressions, racism, anger issues, parental abandonment, divorce themes
Loved the representation, but the story felt too much on the surface without really diving into the issues.
October 19, 2023
We Still Belong is such a beautiful, bite-sized story about a young girl whose big dreams for Indigenous People's Day—people reading her poem about the holiday in the student newspaper and asking her crush, Ryan, out to the middle school dance—don't go according to plan.
This is my first foray into reading anything by Christine Day, but she just writes in such a genuine and thoughtful way to where the heart of the main character, Wesley Wilder, just leaps off the page. Reading it feels like a warm hug and a promise of belonging, despite everything the world may say or throw at you.
NOTE: I haven't read much middle grade since I was the target age demographic, but I want to read more now that I'm working in a public library and want to provide more diverse reading options for these kids, since it's a pretty small town and the resources for reading outside the library are fairly limited.
This is my first foray into reading anything by Christine Day, but she just writes in such a genuine and thoughtful way to where the heart of the main character, Wesley Wilder, just leaps off the page. Reading it feels like a warm hug and a promise of belonging, despite everything the world may say or throw at you.
NOTE: I haven't read much middle grade since I was the target age demographic, but I want to read more now that I'm working in a public library and want to provide more diverse reading options for these kids, since it's a pretty small town and the resources for reading outside the library are fairly limited.
September 13, 2024
Loved this book! The audio was great!
A slice of life/day in the life of Wesley Wilder. The book is so full and complete it kept shocking me when I would realize (again) that this is all taking place in one day, and we keep flashing back to past stuff. I loved how they covered the topic of indigenous peoples day. Surprise surprise, her white male teacher told her he was disappointed in HER writing about a holiday that celebrates HER and HER PEOPLE 🤦♀️ why wasn’t she more argumentative 🤮
I love her getting to know other people and standing up for herself and making plans and executing them. You go girl! It shows that when you have a strong support system you can change the world, and that your support system isn’t always/necessarily blood relations.
Beautiful middle school book. A little romance but no kissing 🫶 for fans of realistic fiction.
A slice of life/day in the life of Wesley Wilder. The book is so full and complete it kept shocking me when I would realize (again) that this is all taking place in one day, and we keep flashing back to past stuff. I loved how they covered the topic of indigenous peoples day. Surprise surprise, her white male teacher told her he was disappointed in HER writing about a holiday that celebrates HER and HER PEOPLE 🤦♀️ why wasn’t she more argumentative 🤮
I love her getting to know other people and standing up for herself and making plans and executing them. You go girl! It shows that when you have a strong support system you can change the world, and that your support system isn’t always/necessarily blood relations.
Beautiful middle school book. A little romance but no kissing 🫶 for fans of realistic fiction.
March 19, 2024
Wesley family is celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day, so she writes a poem for her school newspaper. Wesley also has a goal to ask out her new crush before someone else does. Teachers are be judgmental about her poem, but all she knows is she’s proud of her family, especially her mom! Can Wesley get her crush to take her to her dance?? Only time will tell??
A fun 3.5 star read. It was interesting to learn more about Indigenous people. The author shows the ups and down of how people can treat others especially this group of people. An important read for old and you alike.
A fun 3.5 star read. It was interesting to learn more about Indigenous people. The author shows the ups and down of how people can treat others especially this group of people. An important read for old and you alike.
June 18, 2024
I think this is a great book for middle schoolers who maybe have a hard time accepting themselves or have a hard time fitting in. I have never read a book about someone from Native American ancestry, so this was such a unique insight to the lives of Native students. The struggle Wesley goes through just to be heard and her inner struggle with relationships were perfectly framed in the plot. As an adult reader, I do with this book had more (it left me wanting to know more and read more). However, I completely understand why it was set in just one day of Wesley's life and I think it was the perfect length for middle grades readers.
April 13, 2024
”It was a simple thing. Some of the best things in life are small and simple, aren’t they?”
The premise was good but the plot was meh. It is an easy read for sure. The following story about a teenager named Wesley who is so proud of her heritage and her crush on Ryan.
I expected more heartwarming and develoing story. But this book is too—mediocre. Well, apart from the premise about the indigenous culture.
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