
Reach for this book when your child starts noticing the differences between their home life and the world outside, or if they are navigating two different cultures. This photo-essay provides a gentle, grounded look at ten-year-old Timmy Roybal, who balances his modern life (computers and school) with his deep Pueblo roots (traditional dances and language). It is a beautiful resource for discussing how we carry our history with us into the future. Parents will appreciate how the book fosters pride and belonging rather than focusing on struggle. It is perfect for children aged 7-11 who are developing their own sense of identity. By showing Timmy as a relatable kid who loves both video games and ancient ceremonies, it helps children see that identity is not 'either/or' but 'both/and.' It is an excellent tool for building empathy and cultural appreciation through a real-life lens.
The book focuses on the continuity of culture. The resolution is realistic and hopeful, showing a child who is successfully integrated into both his heritage and his modern environment.
A child who is interested in how other kids live. It is particularly effective for students doing a social studies project who need to see Indigenous people as a living, modern culture rather than a historical artifact.
This book can be read cold. Parents may want to look up the San Ildefonso Pueblo online to show the child where it is on a map to provide geographical context. A parent might choose this after their child expresses interest in learning about different cultures and ways of life.
Younger children will be drawn to the vibrant photographs and the descriptions of the dances. Older children (9-11) will better grasp the nuance of the 'two worlds' theme and the importance of preserving language and tradition.
Unlike many books about Native Americans that focus solely on the past, this book uses real-life photography to show a contemporary child living his life today. It effectively bridges the gap between history and the modern world. """
This non-fiction photo-essay follows Timmy Roybal, a young boy living on the San Ildefonso Pueblo in New Mexico. The book documents his daily routines, ranging from his education at a local school to his participation in sacred tribal dances and learning the Tewa language from his elders. It captures the intersection of contemporary American life and traditional Indigenous culture.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a review