Forever Cousins

by Laurel Goodluck, Jonathan Nelson (Illustrator)

In this Native American story, Kara and Amanda are best-friend cousins. Then Kara leaves the city to move back to the Rez. Will their friendship stay the same?

Kara and Amanda hate not being together. Then it's time for the family reunion on the Rez. Each girl worries that the other hasn't missed her. But once they reconnect, they realize that they are still forever cousins. This story highlights the ongoing impact of the 1950s Indian Relocation Act on Native families, even today.

This tender story about navigating change reminds readers that the power of friendship and family can bridge any distance.

Genres: Picture Books, Family, Indigenous, Native American, Childrens, Friendship, Fiction

32 pages, Hardcover

First published September 20, 2022

Reviews

[Colette Denali · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book! As a woman who was once a girl who spent her childhood between different cities and her Keres and Tiwa homelands, I am grateful to Laurel Goodluck (Mandan & Hidatsa, Tsimshian) and Jonathan Nelson for giving readers this story!

The grief in knowing you must spend months away from cousins (especially as a child, when time feels so enigmatic…), the nervousness when it’s FINALLY time to be together again, the joy in living in relationship and playing on our homelands, and the understanding that we love across time and land - all of these are expressed aptly and relatable in Forever Cousins. Laurel Goodluck’s tender words and Jonathan Nelson’s playful illustrations filled me with nostalgia and coziness.

I loved Goodluck’s end matter essays, “Cousins, Community, Culture, and Connections” and “ From the Reservation to the City.” The clear and age-appropriate explanations of concepts like sovereignty, land dispossession, the federal Indian Relocation Act, and the duality of simultaneous citizenship in tribal nations and settler states - VERY well done!

I am lucky to have innumerable Pueblo cousins at home in New Mexico; I have decades of cousin memories - laughing and listening to family stories around our grandmother’s outdoor work table (she was a traditional potter who worked with micaceous clay), eating Red Hot hot dogs & swimming at a big family picnic along the Rio Grande north of Ohkay Owingeh, walking to Chimayo on Good Friday, and shivering together with anticipation at James Day throws in San Felipe.

Our family has a new generation of cousins now. While high-quality Indigenous-authored youth lit felt nearly impossible to find in the 1980s/ early 1990s, my Generation Z and Alpha niblings are growing up reading fabulous Indigi-books like “Forever Cousins!”

How fortunate are we Indigenous readers to see ourselves reflected in the mirrors and sliding glass doors of Forever Cousins?

p.s. an Indigenous kids’ book with dolls and postal mail? WIN!

[IvyInThePages · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5 leaves out of 5
Characters: 5/5
Cover: 5/5
Story: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Genre: Children
Type: Book
Worth?: Yes

[Reading_ Tamishly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, Charlesbridge, for the advance reading copy.

I just love this cheerful and colourful book so much!

The story reminds me so much of my childhood days! The language is so easy and fun to read, perfect for the kids. The readers will be more aware about different colours and get to learn some new words.

The illustration is different and basic which makes the reading so much easier.

We all have a cousin who we adore, right?
All the family vibes with this one!

[Gabrielle Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

My daughter is very close with her cousins, so this book was a treat for her! I loved the unique illustration style and the sweet story. The language in this book is perfect for early learners. We are currently learning about what it means to be a cousin, so this book is perfect for that!

Thank you to Charlesbridge and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Carissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though this is a picture book about cousins it divides into the deeper issue of 1950s Indian Relocation Act and how it still effects Native families today. Even though it's geared towards kids adults can learn from this book as well.

[Peoria Public Library · Rating 3 out of 5]

2024 American Indian Youth Literature Award Winner.
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Spencer rated this book 3 out of 5 stars.

[Sabrina Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such sweet story of two Native American cousins and the bond they share through life changes. I loved the culture of the story it brought on a lot of questions from my daughter which is always great! Such a good learning experience during story time. The illustrations were super simple and sweet. The story brought on many memories of what summers with some of my cousins were like. I really enjoyed this story and my kids did too!

Thank you NetGalley for this ARC!

[Khadijah VanBrakle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is a must-have for every American household. On the surface, it's a sweet story about two cousins missing each other when one moves away. On a much deeper level, it brings to the forefront the culture and traditions of an indigenous family. Stories like this are gems, hidden parts of the fabric of this country.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book tells the story of two cousins who are similar in age and live far away from each other but visit each summer. This reminds me a lot of my cousins from Hamilton who come visit at the cabin each summer. Usually the first few days is about reintroducing ourselves and catching up on what happened in the last year or two of everyone's lives, then after a few days we are one tight unit again, before feeling sad that they have to leave. What is much more interesting about this story though is the connection to the forced relocation of Indigenous people in the United States, which accounts for why these cousins live so far apart. From the small details like sweet grass braids on the dash board to the mention of fry bread, Indigenous cultural symbols are woven throughout this story. The author describes herself as an intertribal Native American and gives lots of background information for anyone unsure of this part of history. I love to see more books written by Indigenous authors about what took place in the United States. While Canada still has a looooonng way to go before we can truly learn from the crimes of our history, I do think that Canadians are more interested in learning about the past and sharing stories about poor treatment of Indigenous people than in the States so I am glad to see more children's books about these parts of history pertaining specifically to the situations that occurred on the south side of the border. I highly recommend this fantastic book that just begins to touch on the crimes of the past that separated families and changed Indigenous people's lives forever. Even though I am from Canada I could still see myself reading this book with my class. I would absolutely recommend it to families and teachers of children in the age 5-10 range in the United States, but also see the benefit of this book for Canadian teachers too. Thank you so much to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read and review this great book!

[Hailey Hconroybooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Kara and Amanda who are best friends and cousins. When Kara’s family moves from the city back to the Rez, the two worry about whether their friendship will sustain the distance. At their family reunion on the Rez the following summer, both girls are nervous to see each other again. But they quickly fall back in to the close friendship they always had.

My 4-year-old twin girls really enjoyed this book. One of my daughter’s immediately loved Amanda since her favorite color is purple, and the other attached to Kara since her favorite color is pink. The colors are themes carried through out the book.

This is a beautiful story about family, friends, and bonds that can’t be broken by distance. I highly recommend that people take the time to read and discuss the Author’s Notes at the end. The author discusses her family’s experiences and the treatment of Native people in the United States. The notes are informative and give valuable context for the story.

Thank you to NetGalley and Charlesbridge for the digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[E D · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful book! It tells a story of two Native American cousins and what happens to their bond when Kara and her family move to the Rez. I would get this book for my children as they are in a somewhat similar situation where we live abroad, and they miss their cousins as they cannot see them regularly. I can see many children in similar circumstances enjoying this book. The illustration was wonderful, and I loved when Amanda and Kara exchanged dolls at the end, adorable.

However, I really think this is also interesting and educational for adults. I loved all the references to Native American culture (Hidatsa, powwow dancing etc.) as I was not familiar with them. The information about the federal Indian Relocation Act of 1956 at the end of the book was very interesting (as well as shocking since it didn’t happen that long ago). This book would be helpful when trying to introduce such a difficult topic to children. I loved that as an adult I could get so much out of a children’s book.

Thank you NetGalley and Charlesbridge for an advance readers copy, 5 stars!

[Storywraps · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a heartwarming story starring two sweet Native American cousins, Kara and Amanda. They are not only cousins, they are best of friends.

Unfortunately Kara must leave to move back to the Rez. Both girls are heartbroken regarding their separation and wonder if their special friendship will remain the same or change forever.

They experience separation anxiety and hate that they cannot play and spend quality time together. A family reunion is planned on the Rez and the girls are shy and apprehensive thinking perhaps when they meet up again things won't be the same. Will they be correct or will they remain forever loving cousins and forever best friends?

This story highlights the ongoing impact of the 1950s Indian Relocation Act on Native families, even today. The illustrations are beautifully done, colourful, vibrant and expressive. This is a powerful inspiring story of friendship, family ties and the grandness of LOVE! I highly recommend this book.

[Panda Incognito · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like the concept of this book more than the execution. The art style doesn't appeal to me, the constant POV switches are somewhat confusing, and the book's historical tie-in doesn't make sense, unless I'm missing something. The author talks about harmful policies from the mid-20th century that separated extended families, but the story in the picture book is set in the present and seems to just be about a family moving away.

I can see how the author might want to tell a gentler, present-day version of family separation instead of representing her family history the way that it was, but the emphasis on injustice is confusing, since nothing about the story itself represents oppression. It seems to just be about a family moving away and two cousins feeling sad about not spending time together anymore. Ultimately, I feel like the picture book itself and the author's note belong to two separate books, and wish that they met in the middle.

[Stephanie Bange · Rating 5 out of 5]

A contemporary peek into the lives of indigenous Americans.

Kara and Amanda are cousins who enjoy playing together until the day comes that Kara's family moves from the city to the Rez (Reservation). The two girls move forward without the other one. When summer comes, Amanda and her family go to visit relatives on the Rez. Will the two girls resume their friendship where they left off?

How refreshing to read an authentic story about indigenous Americans set today and to hear about and understand some of the issues that affect their daily life choices today. Returning to the Rez is one issue that I understand is very emotional and complicated for indigenous people to explain even to this day... An author's note about family relationships and dynamics of an life today and why they might choose to live on a reservation rather than in the city.

A peek into the lives of Native Americans today. Highly Recommended for PreSchool-grade 2.

[Veronica McFarlin]

Kara and Amanda are cousins and the best of friends. Then Kara's family moves far away to the Rez and the girls don't get to see each other anymore. They miss each other and look forward to the family reunion where they'll be able to see each other again. When the day arrives they're both nervous that the other didn't miss them, but then they reconnect and jump right back in to how things were before the move.

This would be a good one to have on hand to pull out if I have a student who has moved or is going to move. It acknowledges that moving is hard, while also highlighting that the separation isn't forever and things don't have to change when you do get to be together even though you aren't together all the time.

The main characters in the story are Native American, and Kara moves away to live on a Reservation. This could be good to include in a study of Native Americans, as it highlights some Native American culture and traditions.

[Ellie Dunne · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a heartwarming story that reflects the author's own childhood whilst creating unique characters and story, integrating native american culture throughout. I've never seen a picture book cover a long period of time like this one does, but I think this was done very well. It was nice to see such a large happy family reflected here who dedicate time to these large reunions, bringing to life the love they share. I liked Kara and Amanda's initial reaction to seeing each other again at this reunion, it felt organic and realistic rather than overly idealised- therefore relatable to young readers. The art style here was like nothing I've seen before- I personally wasn't a fan but I can see the appeal. Overall, I didn't love this book as much as I've enjoyed other picture books in the past, but I still think its worth checking out!
Thank you to NetGalley and Charlesbridge Publishing for providing me with an advanced ebook copy of this title in exchange for an honest review!

[Whitney · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Thank you to Charlesbridge in connection with School Library Journal's Picture Book Palooza for the review copy. This in no way changed my opinion**

This was cute. I liked that it was inspired by the author's life, that it incorporated her culture and a few words from the Hidatsa language while exploring the impact of the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 and how it's still impacting people. It's not a history book and therefore, if you're looking for a book to explore that topic in depth, this isn't it. But it does have an author's note at the end to explain and the illustrations depict differences in life on "The Rez" vs. in "The City". The illustrations are very friendly and appealing. They remind me a bit of the illustrations from Brad Meltzer's "Ordinary People Change the World" series of books, so I think they will be inviting to children. Would recommend.

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great addition to any child's library.

This beautifully illustrated picture book (ages 4-7) depicts a time of transition in which one cousin's family is moving far away from the other. While this broader storyline is accessible to a wide audience, the context and illustrations brought up familiar themes common throughout Indian Country. This versatility can offer a sense of visibility and inclusion for our young Indigenous readers, while the Author's Note at the end provides context for those not familiar with contemporary American Indian peoples and cultures. It's inclusion highlights the authors generosity, compassion, and foresight in meeting all readers where they are.

I am very appreciative of the publisher (Charlesbridge) and NetGalley for the ARC and opportunity to offer honest my review.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amanda and Kara are cousins and best friends. They do everything together. But Kara's family is moving to the Rez. It's hard to say goodbye. And, after the move, they miss each other very much.. Finally it's time for the big family reunion on the Rez. But each girl is worried if the other will be happy to see her. Will being apart change their relationship?

It's always hard saying goodbye to someone you are close to, and I'm happy that this story is about a temporary goodbye. Jonathan Nelson's illustrations are accurate and it was fun to compare the city version with the reservation view. I loved the author and illustrator's notes giving more context to the Indian Relocation Act, and the ways Indigenous families keep connected, even when they live far apart. The characters are represented as intertribal Native Americans.

[Aseel Alhalaybeh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forever Cousins" by Laurel Goodluck is a touching and tender portrayal of family, friendship, and the enduring bond between cousins. Set against the backdrop of the Navajo Nation, this heartfelt children's book explores themes of tradition, resilience, and the power of cultural heritage. The story follows two cousins, Ella and Mary, as they spend a summer together with their grandparents on the reservation. Through their adventures, readers are introduced to the rich tapestry of Navajo culture, from traditional foods and ceremonies to the importance of storytelling and connection to the land.
" Forever Cousins" is a heartfelt and uplifting book that celebrates the power of family and the resilience of Indigenous communities. It's a story that will resonate with readers of all ages, inspiring them to cherish their family connections and embrace the richness of cultural diversity.

[Musiclib · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kara and Amanda are cousins of indigenous heritage. One day Kara's family decides to move from the city to their tribe's reservation. The cousins must deal with the loss of their closest friend and how events and seasons look like without that friend. When the family reunion arrives, the cousins are shy to reunite - hoping the other missed them. But eventually things return to as they were before.

Indigenous traditions and one word are interspersed throughout. There is also backmatter on the traditions mentioned in the book and the Indian Relocation Act (which prompted the author's family to move when passed).

Use for lessons on indigenous cultures of North America and lessons on grief for when friends move away.

[Carley Francis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story depicts two young cousins dealing with the challenges of growing close and then being separated. These two cousins, Kara and Amanda, bond at a young age as they do everything together. The girls are separated as Kara's family is moving from the city to the rez (Native American reservation). They fear that their friendship will have weakened with the time and distance separating them, but are happy to know that they remain just as close upon reconnecting at the family reunion. Young readers can consider the challenges of familial moves that are far out of their controlm, but also the strong bond of family. There is also a great opportunity to discuss and learn about the cultural aspects of the Native American people.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an electronic ARC from Charlesbridge through Edelweiss+.
An Own Voices story about two cousins who share everything. One moves from the city to the Reservation and they only see each other once a year or so. The concerns carry from culture to culture - will we still be close; will we still be friends; how have things changed. Goodluck writes with sensitivity as she shares these girls' story. I appreciate the way she realistically portrays them meeting again at the family reunion. The illustrations are vividly colored and take readers to both settings. The Author Note at the end shares Goodluck's background and connections to her tale.

[Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great story. When I opened the pages, I was not expecting to hear a US indigenous story. This is about to cousins who live in the city, and one moves back to the “rez”. Will they still be friends? will they still like each other? The story is approachable to all with feelings of being “away” from family. What is interesting is the information in the back where the author talks about the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 which was pitched as a jobs act but was a way of assimilating native culture. This was a fantastic book both in story and education and I would be proud to put it on my library selves.

[Lori Emilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I appreciate stories of other cultures, especially from the First Nations of North America, or Turtle Island. Two cousins who are very close face uncertainty and mixed emotions as one of them is moving away from their reservation. When they reunite a year later, they are at first shy with each other.

The back matter is interesting and tells of historical injustices, as well as ongoing racism and government oppression. There is none of that in the story though. Just a sweet story of two cousins who miss each other.

Thanks to Laurel Goodluck, Charlesbridge and NetGalley for an eARC of this book.

[Shawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is about cousins who are also best friends but are eventually separated when Kara's family moves and the girls experience all too relatable feelings of fear and concern about their relationship changing with the added distance. I read this book to my little girl and her cousin. Though we aren't able to directly relate to the personal experiences of the characters (the reason for the move, the Indian Relocation Act), I found the book to be such a great way of opening both the little girls eyes and mine at some history that is not discussed often enough. I loved this book and so did the girls. It gave them encouragement to ask questions about Native American culture as well!

[Katie Lawrence · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great exploration of maintaining friendship with a cousin even when you are far apart. I loved the focus on cousins, but also the look at indigenous families who are often split between cities and reservations. The back matter is excellent and adds some strong context, in an approachable way, for kids to understand why these families were separated etc. The illustration style was not my favorite, it felt a little static to me, but I can definitely see why this won the American Indian Youth Literature Award for Best Picture Book 2024. I'll be encouraging my staff to buy this one for sure.

[LaShonda Lewis · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wasn't able to completely read this book, but the book looked like it was really good. The book is based on cousins who were Native American, and they were not only cousins but best friends. But
Kara and Amanda, they reconnected, and they realized that they are still forever cousins. This story highlights the ongoing impact of the 1950s Indian Relocation Act on Native families, even today.
This tender story that is about navigating change and reminds us that the power of friendship and family can bridge any distance. The illustration of this book is really good, I love the way the book is laid out.

[Emoen Meadors · Rating 5 out of 5]

Date: 2022
Genre: juvenile fiction picture book
Award: American Indian Youth Award
This book is about two Native American cousins that are best friends named Amanda and Kara. The story shows how they hold tight to their bond even though one family moves from the city back to their reservation. This book can be used in a friendship text set or in a Native American text set. I personally related a little bit to this book because I have a best friend cousin who moved across country that I try to stay close with. I like how this book offered a perspective of life on the rez and Native American life.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two cousins who are also best friends struggle with being apart when one moves far away to the "rez". Several month later the left behind cousin takes a family trip to visit.
The girls are initially she when seeing one another again. But once they begin to play together they reconnect and realize that they will always have a special relationship.
Tie-in with emotions of moving away.
Native American history month--loosely. Not much N.A. information, but illustrations show native looking characters, and the family celebrates with some N.A. traditions.