“The narrative’s powerful ending brings this story to a satisfying, hopeful conclusion. Debut illustrator Littlebird (a member of Oregon’s Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde) captures the closeness of the family and the strength and determination of the protagonist in bright colors set against woodgrain-like backgrounds.” —The Horn Book Magazine, Starred Review
“A thoughtful and enlightening addition to the picture book shelves and a worthy choice for units on Indigenous cultures.” —Booklist, Starred Review
“This is an emotionally searing story infused with important historical and cultural information on the significance of hair to Indigenous cultures.” —School Library Journal, Starred Review
“A deeply moving and inspiring celebration of long hair and its significance in Indigenous cultures.” —Kirkus, Starred Review
“Powerful….Goade’s illustrations combine a mystical mood with the lovely fierceness of a child seeking justice.” —The New York Times
“This book will both educate and inspire youth.” —School Library Journal
“In this tribute to Native resilience, Indigenous author-and-illustrator team Lindstrom and Goade invite readers to stand up for environmental justice. An inspiring call to action for all who care about our interconnected planet.”—starred review, Kirkus Reviews
“Goade’s watercolor illustrations fill the spreads with streaming ribbons of water, cosmic backdrops, and lush natural landscapes…. Lindstrom’s spare, poetic text flows with the “river’s rhythm.” Written in response to the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline, famously protested by the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe—and others—these pages carry grief, but it is overshadowed by hope in what is an unapologetic call to action.” —starred review, Booklist
“Observation is not enough, the book communicates: action is necessary… A passionate call for environmental stewardship.” —starred review, Publishers Weekly
“A gorgeous and empowering picture book with an urgent environmental plea.” —starred review, BookPage
“Flowing words by Carole Lindstrom and lush art by Michaela Goade appear in immaculate synchronicity on every page of We Are Water Protectors.”—Shelf Awareness
“This book celebrates indigenous-led movements to protect our planet’s water. With gorgeous illustrations, it gives readers a sense of our connectivity.” —Romper.com