The Ribbon Skirt: A Graphic Novel

by Cameron Mukwa

A joyful coming-of-age middle-grade graphic novel by debut Indigenous creator Cameron Mukwa about the journey of a two-spirit kid who wants to create a ribbon skirt for the upcoming powwow.

Ten-year-old Anang wants to make a ribbon skirt, a piece of clothing typically worn by women in the Anishinaabe tradition, for an upcoming powwow. Anang is two-spirit and nonbinary and doesn't know what others will think of them wearing a ribbon skirt, but they're determined to follow their heart's desire. Anang sets off to gather the materials needed to make the skirt and turns to those around them -- their family, their human and turtle friends, the crows, and even the lake itself -- for help. And maybe they'll even find a new confidence within themself along the way.

Genres: Graphic Novels, Middle Grade, LGBT, Indigenous, Comics, Queer, Fiction

192 pages, Paperback

First published November 12, 2024

Reviews

[Reads With Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5! Don't skip reading the back!

[Maia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a gentle queer comic for younger readers. Ten year old Anang decides they want to make a ribbon skirt to wear to an upcoming powwow. A ribbon skirt is a piece of celebratory clothing typically worn by Anishinaabe women, and Anang isn't entirely sure what their friends or community will think about them wearing one. But the spirit world encourages Anang. The lakes, the crows, turtles, waves, and trees participate in helping Anang gather all of the supplies they need, despite some light resistance from other characters in the story. Short and sweet, this is lovely introduction to two-spirit and nonbinary identities for a kid who hasn't heard of them yet, and an affirming story for a young person who already inhabits a gender-nonconforming space!

[Bethany (Beautifully Bookish Bethany) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars rounded up

This was great!! A middle grade graphic novel about an indigenous two-spirit kid named Anang who wants to make a ribbon skirt to wear during their Anishanaabe cultural traditions at pow-wow. They face some transphobic bullying from kids who don't understand non-binary identities, but it's really uplifting. I have said this before, but I think it's amazing that we have this kind of representation available in children's literature now. Kids need to be able to see themselves represented! I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher, all opinions are my own.

[Glenda Nelms · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ribbon Skirt is about Anang, an Anishinaabe two spirit child who wants to wear a ribbon skirt to an upcoming powwow. Anang is visited by their turtle spirits to help give them courage and find the pieces of the skirt. I really love the illustrations. I learned about Indigenous LGBTQ+ people identified as Two-Spirit, the history of ribbon skirts and powwows. Very fascinating graphic novel. It's about believing in ourselves, following our dreams and listening our hearts. Thanks to Cameron Mukwa, Scholastic and Pride book tours for the opportunity to spotlight this graphic novel.

[Lindsay · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the message, but the tone of the story seemed off.

[Jennifer Mangler · Rating 3 out of 5]

What a lovely story with a terrific message: “ You cannot hide your joy because the hearts of others may not be open.” It's a very quick read that left me wanting more.

[Niki Smith]

A quiet, uplifting graphic novel about the threads that bind a young two-spirit kid to their friends, to their community, and to the spirits guiding them on their path.

(Review of an advance copy)

[Christine Lucia Asha · Rating 5 out of 5]

MUST READ BOOKS in every genre:
Thriller Say Goodbye
Memoir The Yellow House
SciFi Murder by Memory
Romance Time Loops & Meet Cutes

Took this for the diverse characters and it was a rewarding read. A young Indigenous person who is challenging traditional places in society find support from people and spirits to express their self, and renews a friendship along the way.

#underrated #nativestories #diversereads

[Robyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not sure if there was really much story here but it was cute and nice.

[Leslie Carnahan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS!
WHAT a FANTASTIC book!
Wow wow wow. 10/10/10

[Priya · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sweet middle grade graphic novel with an indigenous protagonist who identifies as two-spirit.
10 yo Anang wants to wear a ribbon skirt for the upcoming powwow but isn't sure of the reactions of everyone else. This is their journey to develop the confidence to be their true self in front of others. It is also about acceptance and forgiveness in friendship.
I loved the insight into indigenous culture and the art was beautiful.

[Alexx (obscure.pages) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was short and sweet and I really enjoyed it!

I loved the highlight on two-spirit identity and Indigenous culture. I think this book did a great job showing how they view gender as individuals and as community, now matter how simple it is, because it was a significant part of Anang, the MC's journey. I also think this is a very important book, especially when I think about what's happening in the west (particularly America) today. Seeing Anang in their ribbon skirt, dancing bravely and living freely at that moment was a scene of trans joy.

Some particular storylines were a bit shifty for me though. Like it could have been more seamless? But maybe that's just me nitpicking? 😆 And this is a middle grade book so I get the fast-paced feeling.

Still, this was very enjoyable and so heartfelt. 🥹

Exact rating: 3.75

[ Marking this book as part of my reading challenge: Read Queerly 2025.

Find me elsewhere: Instagram | Storygraph | Fable | Blog ]

[Jamie Battaglia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best graphic novel for kids I have read so far this year. As soon as I opened to the dedication that read “dedicated to two-spirit kids of all shapes and sizes. Your ancestors believe in you!” I knew it was going to be good. It was further proved when I opened it and read a quote from Nookomis that said—“other folks’ ideas about gender aren’t your fault.” How eye-opening. How clear and revolutionary. How IMPORTANT. Immediately put on my “staff picks” at my library. PLEASE PLEASE WRITE MORE!!

[Amelia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely first go for this two-spirit graphic novelist. The way they handlers the topic (obviously a near and dear to their heart topic) was so obviously genuine and true. The depiction of the friend and the handling of the friendship was perfect for this age. The meanness and nastiness felt real, albeit on a kid level. The kids were open and honest with one another (finally) and they were able to forgive and move on.

The depiction of the spirit world and the turtles were my favorite! Love me a sassy turtle!

Just a beautiful story of acceptance and living/being your true self. Those who love you and support you will always be there.

[Sarah Roe-Hall · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a graphic novel I have in my classroom library. It has helpful explanations of different indigenous terms and language. Also, the story gives humanity to a young teen who is “two-spirit” which gave me more understanding of the term. The character conversations and interactions were somewhat expected and basic. This is a good book to help students feel comfortable in their own skin, no matter what they are going through! It was a good way to celebrate indigenous people’s month!

[Jenn Kause · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was very cute! It is a wonderful insight into powwow and Indigenous culture; I think the characters were great. The art style is a warm and inviting use of color!

The conflict needed more build-up rather than a quick apology and explanation as to why their friend treated them terribly! Sorry, a half apology is still not convincing for me!!!!

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars...i appreciated this story and learning more about indigenous culture and the 2 spirit experience. The artwork style was just ok for me...not my favorite but it worked well enough for this story. I wasn't sure about the friendship dynamics at first but i think it ended up working really well.

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

A joyful coming of age middle grade graphic novel about a two spirit kid who wants to make a ribbon skirt for the upcoming pow-wow. Touches on their experience with friends and community accepting them for who they are!

[Rae-Lynne Byerley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first graphic novel, the colours are very nice. The turtles were fun and the story serious. Thank you for a story that has some hard issues with some positive aspects.

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️- “You cannot hide your joy because the hearts of others may not be open.”
Great graphic novel about expressing who you truly are!

[Marybeth (Marybee.books) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much Pride Book Tours, Graphix Books, & Cameron Mukwa for sending me a copy for tour! 🥰🫶
.
I absolutely loved this middle-grade Indigenous story following a 10-year-old two-spirit kid named Anang as they work on creating a ribbon skirt for an upcoming pow-wow. Anang wants to create and wear a ribbon skirt which is typically worn only by women but after being inspired by a fellow two-spirit person, they decide they want to wear one as they dance at the pow-wow. With the help of the spirits, Anang and their friends find the needed materials to make the skirt. I really loved how the spirits often would take the form of animals (turtles and crows) as well as speaking to Anang in their dreams. This book fully immerses readers in Anishinaabe culture and I am so happy to have learned so much! Helpful information and translations are also included at the end of the book for further learning. I absolutely loved The Ribbon Skirt and this is a must-read for people of all ages!

[Margaret · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a nice middle grade graphic novel about an Anishinaabe 10-year-old two spirit child, Anang, who wants to wear a ribbon skirt to an upcoming powwow. Anang is visited by their turtle spirits to help give them courage and find the pieces of the skirt. Meanwhile, a classmate is staying with them and their grandparents over the summer. This classmate used to be Anang's friend, but has started bullying them because they're two spirit.

I really like that there's a middle grade novel about a two spirit Indigenous kid. I felt that there wasn't a whole lot of story here, though there was lots of potential. For instance, at the end, Anang thanks a teacher for being a role model, but we never saw that teacher until then. In what ways were they a role model? And the classmate's turnaround was too sudden.

But this is still an important book that I'm glad exists.

[Marisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good LGBTQIA+ graphic novel featuring 10 year old Anang, who is non-binary and two spirit. A lovely journey to create a ribbon skirt, with a past friend who doesn’t understand you. Looking forward to reading finished copy in full color. Definite buy for the library graphic novel collection.

Arc provided by Scholastic for an honest review.

[Jeimy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ribbon Skirt by Cameron Mukwa is a moving and beautifully illustrated graphic novel that brings to life the journey of a two-spirit child named Anang, who wants to wear a ribbon skirt to an upcoming powwow. Anang’s struggle with self-identity, family, and friendship unfolds in a way that is both heart-wrenching and ultimately hopeful, making it a story that will resonate with readers of all ages, especially those who are exploring their own sense of self in a world that often asks them to conform.

Anang is two-spirit, and throughout the story, they face the difficult question of whether to risk the judgment and rejection of others by embracing who they truly are. Their friend Sherry, who doesn’t understand Anang’s desire to wear the skirt, treatment of Anang is a painful reminder of how difficult it can be to navigate acceptance, both from others and oneself. Yet, despite the challenges Anang faces—whether it's the isolation at school or the uncertainty about how to express their gender identity—there’s a thread of hope that runs throughout the narrative.

What I found particularly poignant was the sense of cultural affirmation that Anang receives in their community. As someone who has struggled with their own understanding of gender, I was deeply moved by how Anang’s culture already recognized and honored identities like theirs, through the tradition of two-spirit people. That cultural recognition offers a kind of validation that Anang can’t always find from their peers. It was comforting to see a space where Anang’s identity was not only accepted but celebrated, a contrast to the difficulties they face in the wider world.

The moments when Anang interacts with their community and the spirits are the heart of the novel. Anang’s connection to the Turtle Clan and the dream they have of the ribbon skirt being revealed to them is a beautiful representation of their own personal growth. The guidance they receive from the spirits—who help them make the skirt and help Sherry become more understanding—feels both magical and grounded in the very real process of self-discovery and reconciliation with others.

The inclusion of a flashback involving an incident with Sheery reminded me of The Julian Chapter by R.J. Palacio is a reminder that growth, both personal and relational, is a journey.

I also appreciated the author's notes at the end of the book, which offered a deeper understanding of the significance of ribbon skirts, powwows, and the history of the term "two-spirit." These notes added a layer of nuance that helped me connect more deeply with the story, and they shed light on aspects of Indigenous culture that I wasn’t familiar with. It made me think that I would have liked to have been more knowledgeable about the Indigenous iconography used throughout the graphic novel, as I am ignorant of the symbols and motifs that were present.

The Ribbon Skirt is a beautiful exploration of identity, culture, and the importance of being true to oneself. Through Anang’s journey, Mukwa has crafted a story that not only entertains but also educates and inspires, offering readers a window into a world of tradition, spirituality, and self-empowerment. It’s a must-read for anyone who has ever struggled with their identity or who seeks to understand the complexities of navigating gender and culture in a world that often feels unwelcoming.

[Girls Bookish Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Beautiful Celebration of Identity and Self-Expression

I was immediately drawn to the vibrant cover of "The Ribbon Skirt" and the promise of a story about a two-spirit kid embracing their true self. This graphic novel did not disappoint! It's a beautiful and heartwarming coming-of-age story that celebrates individuality and the power of community.

The story follows ten-year-old Anang, who wants to create a ribbon skirt for an upcoming powwow. Anang is two-spirit and nonbinary, and their journey to create the skirt is also a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. The story beautifully explores themes of identity, belonging, and the importance of following your heart, even when it feels scary or uncertain.

The graphic novel format is perfect for this story, allowing the illustrations to convey emotions and add depth to the narrative. The artwork is stunning, with vibrant colors and expressive characters that bring Anang's world to life.

I loved the way the story incorporates Anishinaabe traditions and teachings, offering readers a glimpse into Indigenous culture and values. The relationships between Anang and their family, friends, and community are heartwarming and supportive, emphasizing the importance of connection and belonging.

"The Ribbon Skirt" is a powerful and inspiring story that will resonate with readers of all ages. It's a must-read for anyone who has ever felt different or struggled to find their place in the world. This book is a celebration of individuality, self-expression, and the beauty of embracing your true self.

[Maileen Hamto · Rating 4 out of 5]

Acceptance and kindness start with oneself. Anang, 10, is two-spirit and nonbinary from the Turtle clan. Neither girl nor boy, Anang knows they are a different gender. They were being home-schooled because they had a difficult time with bullying in school from other children who don’t understand. In summer, Grandmother is hosting Sherry, Anang’s friend. While Sherry and Anang had disagreements, their quarrels were overshadowed by talking turtles and crows who were helping Anang in their quest to make a ribbon skirt for the pow-wow. The ribbon skirt – traditionally worn by women – is an important symbol of Anang’s cultural identity as Anishinaabe. Through fantastical dreams and visions, Anang understands the ancestors’ advice to celebrate their true self.

The heartwarming Scholastic graphic novel by two-spirit Anishinaab cartoonist and educator Cameron Mukwa introduces young readers to expansive gender identities in Indigenous worldviews. The ribbon skirt plays a significant role in Anang's journey to self-acceptance as they learn to be confident in who they are and how they want to dress and look.

Sherry embodies the uncertainty that some children may feel about changes they see in their friends. At a time when a record number of anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation is being introduced in various states,"The Ribbon Skirt" is a timely and poignant medium for teaching children about the true meaning of friendship and embracing the differences in others.

[Emily Roman · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a treat this graphic novel was!Anang from the Turtle Clan wants to wear a ribbon skirt, but is scared of how others will treat them. The art was clear with a broad hand and with attention to small details. I found the art style endearing and easily accesible with elements of realism and beauty.

I learned a lot and in a very approachable way. I learned about powwows, the history of the ribbon skirt, and Anang's(fictional character)journey. While Anang's story is fictional it is representative of many indigenous and Nonbinary people's experience. For instance fear of being different, fear of expressing one self through regalia or garments, and fear of ostrazation from peers. Anang converses and dreams with spirits who guide them so it is a spiritual graphic novel as well. The spirits not only offer wisdom but help Anang in practical ways.

I loved this gem and would read more from the author and artist. Side note: Anang has the gentlest heart and their friend Sherry was soooo annoying. She comes around but dang that was a struggle.

I recommend the Graphic Novel to everyone, but it has a reading age of 8-12 and is a novel with colorful pages and a lovable 10 year old main character.

Fave Quotes:

"𝘕𝘰 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘭𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶."

"𝘖𝘧 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘸𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘢 𝘳𝘪𝘣𝘣𝘰𝘯 𝘴𝘬𝘪𝘳𝘵."

"𝘞𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘴 𝘶𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘢𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘭, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨."

[YSBR · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anang, a young Native American child, hopes to wear a ribbon skirt at the next powwow. They are getting pushback from some of their peers who do not accept or understand this choice. Their family, more accepting, tells them to be open to the tribal spirits for advice. The writing is clear and concise, with well-placed footnotes that provide translations of the Gichi-Jiimaan language used throughout the text. This adds authenticity and serves as an educational tool for young readers, exposing them to the rich cultural traditions of Native American communities. Illustrations are simple, vibrant, and complement Anang’s journey and discovery of themself and their place in the world. Themes of coming of age, LGBTQ+ identity, and the importance of acceptance within one’s community are addressed with sensitivity by the author. Children will relate to Anang’s struggles with peer pressure and self-discovery. The end pages are full of great resources, such as the history of the ribbon skirt, powwows, as well as information on going to your first powwow and the definition of two-spirit. The recipe for manoomin berry salad and a bibliography are additional gifts from the author. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...

[SOYAMRG · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anang is an indigenous person who is “two spirit”--which in Anang’s case means they are neither male nor female, but rather nonbinary. Anang is 10 and wants to make and wear a ribbon skirt for the upcoming powwow but fears that since their sex assigned at birth was male that they will not be accepted if they wear a ribbon skirt. Her mentor tells them to ask the Gichigami lake spirits for wisdom. When they affirm Anang’s desire to wear the ribbon skirt, Anang then gets help from turtles and crows to obtain all the things they need to make the skirt.

The graphic novel is drawn simply with a variety of colors and the characters are easy to tell apart. Some of the dialogue is in Anang’s indigenous language, but is translated for readers. Anang is part of the Anishinaabe people, who are from the Great Lakes area. The book does a good job of showing how Anang struggled with not being able to use the restroom at school that is most comfortable to them (and does school online after the event) and how their friend Sherry abandoned them when they came out as two spirit.

Recommended for ages 9-13.

D.B.
Ret. YS Librarian

[Stacey Adams · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had never heard the term two-spirit before...so I learned something by reading this story. Anang is two-spirit, this refers to an indigenous person who identifies with a different gender than they were assigned at birth. Asang got in trouble at school for using the "wrong" bathroom by using the one they were comfortable using. Kids began to tease Anang so they're thinking of not going back. Trying to find an easier path to be who they are Anamg's grandmother points them in the direction of water spirits. The turtle speak to them and help them on their journey to be free. Anang desires wearing a ribbon skirt to the pow-pow, it's typically worn by women/girls so they believe it may cause a disturbance. By listening to the turtle spirits and trusting in their path Anang gathers materials to make the ribbon skirt while learning to express themselves as two-spirit.
Anang is a quiet young person who just wants to be free to live comfortably in their body. A good book for learning about a different culture and different ways of expressing oneself. A glossary at the back explains some indigenous words and traditions.