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Ancestor Approved: Intertribal Stories for Kids
A collection of intersecting stories set at a powwow that bursts with hope, joy, resilience, the strength of community, and Native pride.
In a high school gym full of color and song, Native families from Nations within the borders of the U.S. and Canada dance, sell beadwork and books, and celebrate friendship and heritage. They are the heroes of their own stories.
Featured contributors: Joseph Bruchac, Art Coulson, Christine Day, Eric Gansworth, Dawn Quigley, Carole Lindstrom, Rebecca Roanhorse, David A. Robertson, Andrea L. Rogers, Kim Rogers, Cynthia Leitich Smith, Monique Gray Smith, Traci Sorell, Tim Tingle, Erika T. Wurth, and Brian Young.
In a high school gym full of color and song, Native families from Nations within the borders of the U.S. and Canada dance, sell beadwork and books, and celebrate friendship and heritage. They are the heroes of their own stories.
Featured contributors: Joseph Bruchac, Art Coulson, Christine Day, Eric Gansworth, Dawn Quigley, Carole Lindstrom, Rebecca Roanhorse, David A. Robertson, Andrea L. Rogers, Kim Rogers, Cynthia Leitich Smith, Monique Gray Smith, Traci Sorell, Tim Tingle, Erika T. Wurth, and Brian Young.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 9, 2021
180 people are currently reading
7536 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Leitich Smith
39 books1,287 followersCynthia Leitich Smith is the New York Times bestselling, award-winning author and anthologist of more than 20 books for young readers. She was named a 2025 Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award Candidate, the NSK Neustadt Laureate, Texas Literary Hall of Fame inductee, and winner of the Southern Miss Medallion for Outstanding Contributions in Children’s Literature. Cynthia has also been named to deliver the 2026 ALSC Children’s Literature Lecture. She is the author-curator of Heartdrum, a Native-focused imprint at HarperCollins Children’s Books, and served as the Katherine Paterson Inaugural Chair for the children’s-YA writing MFA program at Vermont College of Fine Arts. Cynthia is a citizen of the Muscogee Nation and lives in Texas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 509 reviews
December 6, 2020
tw: racism, talks of residential schools, exploration of inter-generational trauma, theft, mild danger
I absolutely loved this book. This is the kind of powwow gathering I would love to go to.
I really appreciated the way serious subjects of inter-generational trauma or racism were brought to light, but in a digestible and explainable way for young adults.
I have to admit, I wish Roanhorse's story had been toward the end, considering everyone saw the "Ancestor's Approved" shirt at some point in their stories, but that's a small complaint.
"Fancy Dancer" -something I really love about this story is the continuation of culture in secret when someone tries to take it away. It brought up the effects of domestic abuse and the small ways people reclaim themselves.
"Flying Together"-I found this so heart-wrenching, we hold Native military members to such a high esteem that seeing a child deal with their parent having to leave was refreshing. I remember the loneliness and trying to make time pass quickly. I loved the grandpa, and the way they connected throughout their journey.
"Rez Dog Rules" I feel this story could've been the connection story and held until the end, reuniting all of the stories. But regardless, I highly enjoyed it.
"Joey Reads the Sky" This story deserves its own book, I love the ways Dawn Quigley incorporates the mystical feelings/intuition some natives have been gifted with into regular stories. I deeply appreciatd this.
I'm extremely grateful for Cynthia Smith, she got this fast-tracked approved, and I deeply appreciate her for letting me read this.
I absolutely loved this book. This is the kind of powwow gathering I would love to go to.
I really appreciated the way serious subjects of inter-generational trauma or racism were brought to light, but in a digestible and explainable way for young adults.
I have to admit, I wish Roanhorse's story had been toward the end, considering everyone saw the "Ancestor's Approved" shirt at some point in their stories, but that's a small complaint.
"Fancy Dancer" -something I really love about this story is the continuation of culture in secret when someone tries to take it away. It brought up the effects of domestic abuse and the small ways people reclaim themselves.
"Flying Together"-I found this so heart-wrenching, we hold Native military members to such a high esteem that seeing a child deal with their parent having to leave was refreshing. I remember the loneliness and trying to make time pass quickly. I loved the grandpa, and the way they connected throughout their journey.
"Rez Dog Rules" I feel this story could've been the connection story and held until the end, reuniting all of the stories. But regardless, I highly enjoyed it.
"Joey Reads the Sky" This story deserves its own book, I love the ways Dawn Quigley incorporates the mystical feelings/intuition some natives have been gifted with into regular stories. I deeply appreciatd this.
I'm extremely grateful for Cynthia Smith, she got this fast-tracked approved, and I deeply appreciate her for letting me read this.
September 23, 2021
This anthology highlights the joy, strength, and pride of being Native-American, and I just loved this so much. This story radiates so much love and hope, and a celebration of Native-American culture and tradition.
- This anthology contains stories that intersecting one another and all take place in a powwow, from the perspective of different Native-American kids from different tribes - and also from the perspective of a rez dog!
- The heartwarming stories explore a wealth of themes, things that kids, especially Native-American kids, will really relate to: family, belonging, bravery, loneliness, friendship, and making hard choices. There was not a story I didn't enjoy; I genuinely loved all and how they each painted a different picture and perspective within the powwow.
- I enjoyed that the stories were a celebration of Native-American identity - and the many beautiful ways that being Native-American can be different and mean different things to Native kids.
- I loved that story shows how powwows are so important to connection, community, and culture. I don't live in the U.S. so my knowledge of Native-American culture is very limited, but I think this book beautifully shows why appropriating the term 'powwow' is so reductive and diminishes how important powwows are to Native-American communities.
- Honestly, I loved this so much; I felt so happy after reading this.
Content warning: racism, intergenerational trauma, mention of residential schools
- This anthology contains stories that intersecting one another and all take place in a powwow, from the perspective of different Native-American kids from different tribes - and also from the perspective of a rez dog!
- The heartwarming stories explore a wealth of themes, things that kids, especially Native-American kids, will really relate to: family, belonging, bravery, loneliness, friendship, and making hard choices. There was not a story I didn't enjoy; I genuinely loved all and how they each painted a different picture and perspective within the powwow.
- I enjoyed that the stories were a celebration of Native-American identity - and the many beautiful ways that being Native-American can be different and mean different things to Native kids.
- I loved that story shows how powwows are so important to connection, community, and culture. I don't live in the U.S. so my knowledge of Native-American culture is very limited, but I think this book beautifully shows why appropriating the term 'powwow' is so reductive and diminishes how important powwows are to Native-American communities.
- Honestly, I loved this so much; I felt so happy after reading this.
Content warning: racism, intergenerational trauma, mention of residential schools
Want to read
February 19, 2021this sounds perfect
and that cover
ARE YOU KIDDING ME?
wow.
and that cover
ARE YOU KIDDING ME?
wow.
October 31, 2024
I love the concept of this, with all the characters from different tribes heading to the same powwow, and the little crossover elements (like the dog) appearing every once in a while.
All the stories were lovely and filled with so much light, it made my heart warm. I do have two favourites, however. Rez Dog Rules, and Joey Reads the Sky. The first one is no surprise, if something is told from the PoV of a dog I'm gonna love it. But the second put me on an emotional roller-coaster in just 20 minutes?? I'd actually love to see that one as a full book.
The narrators chosen for the audiobook were great, I had a really good time listening to this.
I'd recommend this to both kids and adults, for the latter it can be a little palette cleanser between heavier reads, it's such a joyful book.
All the stories were lovely and filled with so much light, it made my heart warm. I do have two favourites, however. Rez Dog Rules, and Joey Reads the Sky. The first one is no surprise, if something is told from the PoV of a dog I'm gonna love it. But the second put me on an emotional roller-coaster in just 20 minutes?? I'd actually love to see that one as a full book.
The narrators chosen for the audiobook were great, I had a really good time listening to this.
I'd recommend this to both kids and adults, for the latter it can be a little palette cleanser between heavier reads, it's such a joyful book.
July 28, 2021
4.75/5
Wish there had been a story about a queer character--unless i missed it? Otherwise absolutely loved this anthology and it was really out here trying to make me cry in Aldi multiple times.
Ancestor Approved tells the story of several people and 1 dog. This anthology centers around the experience of a powwow, a celebration of Native culture. This book was such a joyous and transcendent experience. I would recommend this to everyone, read this right now.
I loved seeing traditions and dances from a variety of tribes. It was informative, but also just so damn happy. These stories are all about family and celebrating Native identity. Instant mood booster. Also Rebecca Roanhorse is really out here breaking my heart with her story about the dog (no the dog doesn't die), it was just so damn happy.
Rep: All MCs and most side characters are Indigenous to North America--various tribal identities including Seneca, Cherokee, Cree, Navajo, Anishinaabe--Ojibwe, Apache, Lipan, Choctaw. Biracial characters.
CWs: Bullying, discussions of colonization and cultural appropriation, child abuse, racism.
Wish there had been a story about a queer character--unless i missed it? Otherwise absolutely loved this anthology and it was really out here trying to make me cry in Aldi multiple times.
Ancestor Approved tells the story of several people and 1 dog. This anthology centers around the experience of a powwow, a celebration of Native culture. This book was such a joyous and transcendent experience. I would recommend this to everyone, read this right now.
I loved seeing traditions and dances from a variety of tribes. It was informative, but also just so damn happy. These stories are all about family and celebrating Native identity. Instant mood booster. Also Rebecca Roanhorse is really out here breaking my heart with her story about the dog (no the dog doesn't die), it was just so damn happy.
Rep: All MCs and most side characters are Indigenous to North America--various tribal identities including Seneca, Cherokee, Cree, Navajo, Anishinaabe--Ojibwe, Apache, Lipan, Choctaw. Biracial characters.
CWs: Bullying, discussions of colonization and cultural appropriation, child abuse, racism.
Read
February 11, 2021This is SUCH a cool book.
Leitich Smith brings together a wealth of Native talent to write short stories from the perspectives of a variety of Native tweens who are all attending a major powwow in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It's intertribal, both in the writing and in the story, and everyone's voice brings this powwow to life. There is joy and sadness as much as there is mystery, humor, and even maybe a little love.
Each of the pieces works seamlessly, but I can't stop thinking about how much I loved Roanhorse's decision to write from the perspective of an attending dog (who happens to be a huge hit and appears in nearly every story). I also loved Wurth's middle grade sleuth, and I found the connecting stories of two boys in the same community, one struggling with losing his dad and the other with deciding which tribal enrollment he wishes to take, powerful and memorable.
Leitich Smith brings together a wealth of Native talent to write short stories from the perspectives of a variety of Native tweens who are all attending a major powwow in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It's intertribal, both in the writing and in the story, and everyone's voice brings this powwow to life. There is joy and sadness as much as there is mystery, humor, and even maybe a little love.
Each of the pieces works seamlessly, but I can't stop thinking about how much I loved Roanhorse's decision to write from the perspective of an attending dog (who happens to be a huge hit and appears in nearly every story). I also loved Wurth's middle grade sleuth, and I found the connecting stories of two boys in the same community, one struggling with losing his dad and the other with deciding which tribal enrollment he wishes to take, powerful and memorable.
May 18, 2021
"There are always going to be people who want to pull you down. That's the hurt in their heart. But it's up to you whether you let them succeed." Monique Gray Smith p.10
"But I've learned that sometimes in life you gotta be brave before you can be good." Monique Gray Smith p. 18
"When Alan danced, the drum synced with his heartbeat and he felt his footwork fitting into the footprints of his Seneca ancestors." Brian Young p. 154
"'I'm speaking my foreign language, now, English. The land we're standing on is Indigenous land, so which language is the foreign one?'" Dawn Quigley p. 191
"'You're an artist.' The whole train seemed to shimmer. The stars shone brighter out the window." Cynthia Leitich Smith p. 281
"We are all connected. Coming together, like circles." Carole Lindstrom p. 286
"But I've learned that sometimes in life you gotta be brave before you can be good." Monique Gray Smith p. 18
"When Alan danced, the drum synced with his heartbeat and he felt his footwork fitting into the footprints of his Seneca ancestors." Brian Young p. 154
"'I'm speaking my foreign language, now, English. The land we're standing on is Indigenous land, so which language is the foreign one?'" Dawn Quigley p. 191
"'You're an artist.' The whole train seemed to shimmer. The stars shone brighter out the window." Cynthia Leitich Smith p. 281
"We are all connected. Coming together, like circles." Carole Lindstrom p. 286
March 2, 2021
This wonderful collection of short stories is a must for schools, children’s libraries, and young adult libraries! Each story centers on Native American traditions and they are interconnected through themes, locations, and the same stories were sometimes even shared from two different perspectives on the same scene. I enjoyed this book as an audiobook and was quite pleased with the content and variety of narrators. Happy to recommend!! NOTE: I am grateful to Libro.fm for making this available as an ALC for me as an educator.
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
February 3, 2021
Ancestor Approved: Intertribal Stories for Kids is an absolute must have book for school and classroom libraries. I loved these short stories and how each was interconnected to the collection as a whole through the Intertribal Pow Wow setting. Outstanding storytelling throughout!
June 11, 2021
Ancestor Approved: Intertribal Stories for Kids is a groundbreaking anthology collection. Each chapter could be read as a standalone story, but the richness in understanding and breadth of experience are what make the collection as a whole a standout. The chapters get better as you go because the stories become more entwined with one another, furthering the beautiful message of the closing poem "Circles."
Some of my favorite chapters included "Secrets and Surprises" by Traci Sorell, "Wendigos Don't Dance" by Art Coulson, and "Indian Price" by Eric Gansworth, but the entire anthology offers so much in terms of reflection for indigenous readers, and education and insight for white readers. The book is packed with social-emotional learning moments, and like a powwow - where everyone is welcome - the reader may engage with multiple and multi-faceted tribal traditions including dress style in regalia, food, legends, music style, and my favorite, a variety of native languages now found in one book.
Additional resources are provided with a glossary and pronunciation guide in the back, translating each word or phrase into English.
-Jess, Youth Services
Find this book and other titles within our catalog.
Some of my favorite chapters included "Secrets and Surprises" by Traci Sorell, "Wendigos Don't Dance" by Art Coulson, and "Indian Price" by Eric Gansworth, but the entire anthology offers so much in terms of reflection for indigenous readers, and education and insight for white readers. The book is packed with social-emotional learning moments, and like a powwow - where everyone is welcome - the reader may engage with multiple and multi-faceted tribal traditions including dress style in regalia, food, legends, music style, and my favorite, a variety of native languages now found in one book.
Additional resources are provided with a glossary and pronunciation guide in the back, translating each word or phrase into English.
-Jess, Youth Services
Find this book and other titles within our catalog.
October 1, 2020
I loved this book of interrelated short stories! It was brilliant the way the authors worked together to have characters from each other's stories make cameos. It really made it feel like they were all at the powwow together. Each story individually is great, but the sum of the whole is so much greater than the parts. It shows both the interconnectedness and the diversity in the Native American communities throughout the United States and Canada. It is also a great taste of a wide variety of Native authors.
It does help to have some background on the modern powwow. I am glad that I read Son Who Returns over the summer, it explains a great deal about the current role of powwows in Native American society and how they work.
Highly recommended for grades 4 & up.
eARC provided by publisher via Edelweiss
It does help to have some background on the modern powwow. I am glad that I read Son Who Returns over the summer, it explains a great deal about the current role of powwows in Native American society and how they work.
Highly recommended for grades 4 & up.
eARC provided by publisher via Edelweiss
November 21, 2020
I loved this so much! Truly, I'm so thankful I was sent an arc of this book! It was so healing, so validating, and there were even Apache characters in this book that filled my heart with so much warmth, made me feel so seen. I'm so, so thankful I was able to read this for NAHM!
ARC was provided by Epic Reads in exchange for an honest review.
FULL REVIEW COMING SOON!
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ARC was provided by Epic Reads in exchange for an honest review.
FULL REVIEW COMING SOON!
Blog|Instagram|YouTube|Ko-fi
February 19, 2021
So grateful for this collection of short stories that centers a Native American tradition and the way it connects tribes. I loved how some stories intertwined and I really enjoyed hearing about the many colors in the regalia characters wore.
February 13, 2021
*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair review.*
This anthology is so wholesome. The first few pieces gave me chills, and then I finally settled into it. The interconnectedness of the characters attending the same powwow unfolded seamlessly. There’s so much to learn and take away from each piece, even if reading it without prior context about the significance of powwows and gatherings.
While I’m not sure exactly what age group I would recommend this for (maybe ages 9-11?), each story can be vividly imagined/pictured by readers of all ages.
This anthology is so wholesome. The first few pieces gave me chills, and then I finally settled into it. The interconnectedness of the characters attending the same powwow unfolded seamlessly. There’s so much to learn and take away from each piece, even if reading it without prior context about the significance of powwows and gatherings.
While I’m not sure exactly what age group I would recommend this for (maybe ages 9-11?), each story can be vividly imagined/pictured by readers of all ages.
March 31, 2021
3.5 stars
This anthology was so cute!! I don’t think there was a single story that I genuinely disliked in this collection, which is very rare for me with anthologies, but I had a great time with this one!! I loved the over-arching theme of the powwow and I loved how all of the stories were connected by it and how we got to see different characters show up in multiple stories and how that made it feel all the more real and connected and ahhh!!! I loved the theme of community at the heart of each story and I loved how unique each story was. I would very highly recommend this one because I think it has something to offer to every reader!!
This anthology was so cute!! I don’t think there was a single story that I genuinely disliked in this collection, which is very rare for me with anthologies, but I had a great time with this one!! I loved the over-arching theme of the powwow and I loved how all of the stories were connected by it and how we got to see different characters show up in multiple stories and how that made it feel all the more real and connected and ahhh!!! I loved the theme of community at the heart of each story and I loved how unique each story was. I would very highly recommend this one because I think it has something to offer to every reader!!
Want to read
June 8, 2020June 08, 2020: This is said to "celebrate(s) friendship and family, culture and tradition, intergenerational relationships, and the wide-ranging diversity within today’s Native and First Nations communities." and I'm SO ready to diversify my reading lists AHH. Also, the cover has just been revealed and WHAT BEAUTY.
November 7, 2021
This book is a phenomenal collection. I listened to the audiobook, and the different narration was amazingly done to capture each story. I loved how there was a central event connecting each of the characters. I definitely recommend this book for anyone looking to read a light and joyful short story collection that speaks to many heartfelt themes such as connection, family, coming of age, home, and belonging.
February 17, 2021
A wonderful book with so great short stories. I love that each story is set in the same place and a dog makes a cameo (or more) in each one. Yet, each story is all on its own.
July 18, 2024
I wish there was more I like the concept but found that after a few stories, I lost interest. They wrote interesting stories, then, BOOM, finished! I wish there were more written for each story. In my opinion, there should be more stories added to it. I think some stories were phenomenal, like Rory's. Others were, meh. Meh meaning it wasn't terrible, nor terrific. The poems were beautiful, especially What Is a Powwow? by Kim Rogers. I guess I would recommend Ancestor Approved: Intertribal Stories for Kids to some people. Overall, a nice book!
March 8, 2024
Such a lovely collection of Middle Grade short stories all set at the same intertribal powwow. I loved seeing the little ways that there were crossovers or elements that popped up in multiple short stories. I also enjoyed how the stories represented different Native experiences and tribal backgrounds. It was great getting to read more from authors that I’ve enjoyed in the past and also be introduced to authors that I haven’t read from before. I think that Rebecca Roanhorse’s story was my favorite from the collection, but I loved so many of them.
June 7, 2022
This was awesome! Such a cool piece of Pan-Indigenous art featuring so many authors and stories set around the same Pow Wow. Really well planned and edited.
April 12, 2021
First, I was attracted to the cover illustration, which I think is great. Then, I was attracted to the title, thinking it was going to be a collection of family history stories (because of the word Ancestor in the title). What it is, however, is a collection of 16 contemporary short stories and two poems that are centered around the University of Michigan powwow that is held each year at Skyline High School in Ann Arbor, Michigan (except 2020 and 2021 because of COVID-19).
The stories begin with a poem called "What is a Powwow?" by Kim Rogers who writes that it is about family, friends, and remembering those who have passed on, it is also dancing in regalia made with love, and eating fry bread and corn soup, and healing and soul-soothing. And these are just some aspects of what you will find in the stories that follow.
One of the things I really loved about this collection is the way they connect to each other. Characters show up in different stories. For example, there is a story called "Joey Reads the Sky" by Dawn Quigley. Joey's mom sells the World Best Fry Bread and this fry bread stand also briefly appears in "Bad Dog" by Joseph Bruchac and "Between the Lines" by Cynthia Leitich Smith. One of my favorite stories is called "Rez Dog Rules" by Rebecca Roanhorse, about a dog named Ozzie with no master who travels to the Powwow with Marino. Marino is hoping to sell his silk screen T-shirts celebrating Native identity and culture to help out his grandma. At one point, Ozzie wiggles into a T-shirt that says Ancestor Approved on it and becomes a walking advertisement. The story is told from Ozzie's point of view, and he briefly appears in "Flying Together" by Kim Rogers, "Brothers" by David A. Robertson, "Wendigos Don't Dance" by Art Coulson, "Senecavajo: Alan's Story" by Brian Young, "What We Know About Glaciers" by Christine Day, and "Between the Line"s by Cynthis Leitich Smith. Connecting the stories to each other like this gives the reader a sense of continuity and the sense like they are also there, to the point where I could feel the beat of the drums as the dancers danced. And I could most definitely taste the fry bread, one of my favorite things about having lived in Arizona for a while.
The stories are varied, ranging from lighthearted to very serious. There are a number of different nations represented, including Ojibwa, Choctaw, Cree, Cherokee, Navajo, Haudenosaunee, and Abenaki, and there is a smattering of words in the various Native languages throughout. I was also stunned by the impressive descriptions of the regalia that is made and worn by the dancers. By the end of the book, I had developed a much deeper appreciation for the importance of Powwow than I had had before, mainly because these stories were so informative about them. And yes, anyone can go to a powwow, just learn what the etiquette is if you are not Native.
Back matter includes Notes and Acknowledgements for each story and the poems, and a Glossary of all the Native words used in the stories and the Nation they belong to. This is followed by short biographies of the different writers.
Ancestor Approved is a wonderful collection that introduces young readers, as Cynthia Leitich Smith writes, to "the diversity of the intertribal Native and First Nations community, of each Indigenous Nation within it, and of young Native heroes." I was so happy to read this and discover they are perfect for middle grade readers because so often anthologies like this are geared toward young adult readers and, believe me, these are stories not to be missed.
This book is recommended for readers age 9+
This book was an eARC gratefully received from Edelweiss+
The stories begin with a poem called "What is a Powwow?" by Kim Rogers who writes that it is about family, friends, and remembering those who have passed on, it is also dancing in regalia made with love, and eating fry bread and corn soup, and healing and soul-soothing. And these are just some aspects of what you will find in the stories that follow.
One of the things I really loved about this collection is the way they connect to each other. Characters show up in different stories. For example, there is a story called "Joey Reads the Sky" by Dawn Quigley. Joey's mom sells the World Best Fry Bread and this fry bread stand also briefly appears in "Bad Dog" by Joseph Bruchac and "Between the Lines" by Cynthia Leitich Smith. One of my favorite stories is called "Rez Dog Rules" by Rebecca Roanhorse, about a dog named Ozzie with no master who travels to the Powwow with Marino. Marino is hoping to sell his silk screen T-shirts celebrating Native identity and culture to help out his grandma. At one point, Ozzie wiggles into a T-shirt that says Ancestor Approved on it and becomes a walking advertisement. The story is told from Ozzie's point of view, and he briefly appears in "Flying Together" by Kim Rogers, "Brothers" by David A. Robertson, "Wendigos Don't Dance" by Art Coulson, "Senecavajo: Alan's Story" by Brian Young, "What We Know About Glaciers" by Christine Day, and "Between the Line"s by Cynthis Leitich Smith. Connecting the stories to each other like this gives the reader a sense of continuity and the sense like they are also there, to the point where I could feel the beat of the drums as the dancers danced. And I could most definitely taste the fry bread, one of my favorite things about having lived in Arizona for a while.
The stories are varied, ranging from lighthearted to very serious. There are a number of different nations represented, including Ojibwa, Choctaw, Cree, Cherokee, Navajo, Haudenosaunee, and Abenaki, and there is a smattering of words in the various Native languages throughout. I was also stunned by the impressive descriptions of the regalia that is made and worn by the dancers. By the end of the book, I had developed a much deeper appreciation for the importance of Powwow than I had had before, mainly because these stories were so informative about them. And yes, anyone can go to a powwow, just learn what the etiquette is if you are not Native.
Back matter includes Notes and Acknowledgements for each story and the poems, and a Glossary of all the Native words used in the stories and the Nation they belong to. This is followed by short biographies of the different writers.
Ancestor Approved is a wonderful collection that introduces young readers, as Cynthia Leitich Smith writes, to "the diversity of the intertribal Native and First Nations community, of each Indigenous Nation within it, and of young Native heroes." I was so happy to read this and discover they are perfect for middle grade readers because so often anthologies like this are geared toward young adult readers and, believe me, these are stories not to be missed.
This book is recommended for readers age 9+
This book was an eARC gratefully received from Edelweiss+
August 12, 2025
Ancestor Approved is an anthology of interconnected short stories and poems set at the Mother Earth Powwow in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where Indigenous communities from across North America gather to celebrate their cultures, traditions, and shared history. The result is a vibrant tapestry of voices and experiences, each piece contributing to an overarching sense of connection and celebration.
I can think of no better word to describe this collection than joyful. I picked it up after a stretch of heavy reads and was in search of something uplifting, which it delivered in every way I’d hoped! While the stories share common themes, they never feel repetitive; instead, each offers a fresh perspective, new characters, and unique emotional journeys.
What impressed me most was how the anthology balances warmth with depth. Difficult themes are handled with care and nuance, making them accessible for younger readers while still resonating with adults. The result is a work that feels truly intergenerational and a book that could be read and enjoyed by audiences of all ages.
By the end, I felt as though I had been attending this celebration myself, moving through its rhythms and conversations, learning, laughing, and reflecting alongside the characters. It’s the kind of book that doesn’t just tell stories — it builds a community you’re grateful to have spent time with!
I can think of no better word to describe this collection than joyful. I picked it up after a stretch of heavy reads and was in search of something uplifting, which it delivered in every way I’d hoped! While the stories share common themes, they never feel repetitive; instead, each offers a fresh perspective, new characters, and unique emotional journeys.
What impressed me most was how the anthology balances warmth with depth. Difficult themes are handled with care and nuance, making them accessible for younger readers while still resonating with adults. The result is a work that feels truly intergenerational and a book that could be read and enjoyed by audiences of all ages.
By the end, I felt as though I had been attending this celebration myself, moving through its rhythms and conversations, learning, laughing, and reflecting alongside the characters. It’s the kind of book that doesn’t just tell stories — it builds a community you’re grateful to have spent time with!
February 25, 2021
Through a series of linked short stories and poems, readers get to join young Native people from across the United States and Canada as they converge in Michigan for an intertribal powwow. Written by new and familiar Native authors, these stories speak to the various ways that Native families and youth stay connected or find new connection with their cultural heritage. From the World’s Best Fry Bread to dancing in regalia to solving powwow mysteries to selling items from booths, this book invites readers to experience the powwow at different levels while also connecting to nature, ancestors and shared humor and tales.
The most impressive part of this collection of short stories and poems is that they are all so impressive. Each story has its own voice and point of view, featured characters and tribal connections, yet they come together in a remarkable way where they lift one another up. The stories have shared characters, including a dog who sells t-shirts, a girl selling raffle tickets and a young detective. These elements help tie the tales together, but it is the strength of the writing of each story that really makes the book work.
The final poem of the book takes the drum beat that has been happening throughout the book and shows the power of the powwow and the importance of the experience for all who attend. It’s the ideal way to wrap up a book that offers so much joy, connectivity and community.
One of the best short story collections for children ever, this belongs in every library. Appropriate for ages 9-12.
The most impressive part of this collection of short stories and poems is that they are all so impressive. Each story has its own voice and point of view, featured characters and tribal connections, yet they come together in a remarkable way where they lift one another up. The stories have shared characters, including a dog who sells t-shirts, a girl selling raffle tickets and a young detective. These elements help tie the tales together, but it is the strength of the writing of each story that really makes the book work.
The final poem of the book takes the drum beat that has been happening throughout the book and shows the power of the powwow and the importance of the experience for all who attend. It’s the ideal way to wrap up a book that offers so much joy, connectivity and community.
One of the best short story collections for children ever, this belongs in every library. Appropriate for ages 9-12.
November 6, 2021
November is Native American Heritage Month, but I didn’t know this when I took this book home from the Coralville Central Library. To be honest, I was nervous to read 𝘈𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳 𝘈𝘱𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥: 𝘐𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘣𝘢𝘭 𝘚𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘒𝘪𝘥𝘴. I thought it was going to be sad and heavy- it wasn’t! While there was a short mention of residential schools, racism, and intergenerational trauma, the stories were hopeful, filled with all kinds of families, and had a strong sense of community. The book is about Native American people from all over the country, including Canada, traveling to Ann Arbor, Michigan for the Dance for Mother Earth Powwow. Each chapter was written by a different author, but you see repeat characters in some of the stories. I learned so much reading the book that I am actually embarrassed at everything I didn’t know. It would be a great read aloud for a teacher or to read together as a family. Music teachers could use the book for its music and drumming, Art teachers could use it for the beadwork, learning about the feather regalia, and other designs, and then there is so much opportunity to learn about the different tribes and their languages. It’s a quick read!
2nd grade +
2nd grade +
May 9, 2023
Oh my gosh way to make me homesick. I loooooooved this. As a former Ann Arborite (born and raised!) it was fun to visit my old stomping grounds (briefly - most of the stories are about getting to Ann Arbor, but still.) I attended the Dance For Mother Earth Pow Wow for most of my childhood as well. (I attended at the Chrysler arena! So weird to hear it's been moved to a high school that hadn't been built when I still lived there!)
Anyway, this was a delightful collection of stories. A great introduction to Indigenous ways of life, while still being relatable to those not Indigenous. A very solid middle grade book you can share with the young folks in your life and still enjoy yourself. I absolutely adored the way these stories interconnected, too, making it one long story made of many little parts.
Anyway, this was a delightful collection of stories. A great introduction to Indigenous ways of life, while still being relatable to those not Indigenous. A very solid middle grade book you can share with the young folks in your life and still enjoy yourself. I absolutely adored the way these stories interconnected, too, making it one long story made of many little parts.
Read
September 12, 2025In Ancestor Approved: Intertribal Stories for Kids, editor Cynthia Leitich Smith brings together eighteen stories by many of the most celebrated Indigenous authors who write for young readers. The stories feature characters from various tribes traveling from all around America and Canada to converge on a powwow in Michigan.
In addition to this common setting, many of the stories relate to each other through recurring characters or situations, and from the friendly rez dog who wanders through the stories wearing an Ancestor Approved t-shirt. The connections between the stories symbolize the interconnectedness of the tribes within the stories: They are distinct but connected.
Every story centers on a middle-grade character, kids who are juggling the usual middle school ups and downs while also exploring questions unique to their Indigenous heritage. The result is a collection that is funny, heartfelt, and eye-opening and definitely made me want to go to a powwow!
Thanks to Libro.fm for providing access to this title.
In addition to this common setting, many of the stories relate to each other through recurring characters or situations, and from the friendly rez dog who wanders through the stories wearing an Ancestor Approved t-shirt. The connections between the stories symbolize the interconnectedness of the tribes within the stories: They are distinct but connected.
Every story centers on a middle-grade character, kids who are juggling the usual middle school ups and downs while also exploring questions unique to their Indigenous heritage. The result is a collection that is funny, heartfelt, and eye-opening and definitely made me want to go to a powwow!
Thanks to Libro.fm for providing access to this title.
April 21, 2021
(c/p from my review on TheStoryGraph) This is such a joyful book. So full of light and love for the tribes in each story and I think a really wonderful book for everyone but in particular it is good to see a book that is about indigenous joy for indigenous children. Totally needed.
TW for this book include: Racism, Bullying, Death (including death of a parent and grandparent), and Cancer
TW for this book include: Racism, Bullying, Death (including death of a parent and grandparent), and Cancer
June 22, 2022
This is a middle-grade short story collection created by 16 indigenous authors.
The stories are interconnected as they tell the stories of different characters as they all attend the same Pow Wow. These stories include tales of family, understanding, inclusion, art, coming-of-age, and so much more… including a dog wearing a t-shirt 🤣
I really loved each story as each held its own message and beauty, and I recommend this to all readers!
January 26, 2025
Oh my gosh such a cute book! All of the stories in this book take place at the same Powwow. I gave 4 stars because two of the stories felt too similar for my liking. Otherwise I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I love that the last story mentions the book “The Legend of Skeleton Man”, I read that book as part of my 2024 reading goals. I highly recommend that book as well.
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