Violet
Children’s & Middle Grade Author
Educator, Dancer & Storyteller
Travels from: Phoenix, AZ

“Drawing inspiration from her own family’s experiences, Duncan (Kehewin Cree/Taino) tells the story of an Indigenous girl who confronts hard truths one summer. . . . Duncan shines a light on a devastating aspect of Indigenous history, never sugarcoating the topic yet leaving readers with hope.” — Kirkus Reviews, starred review

Violet Duncan is Plains Cree and Taino from Kehewin Cree Nation. As an accomplished author, educator, dancer, and storyteller, she has toured both nationally and internationally, sharing her talents and promoting wellness and cultural education across the US, Canada, and Europe.

After becoming a mother of four and seeing the need for greater Native representation in literature, Violet has authored three picture books: I Am Native, When We Dance, and Let’s Hoop Dance! Her next children’s book, Life is a Dance will arrive in fall 2025.

Most recently, she released her middle school novel, Buffalo Dreamer, under Nancy Paulsen’s imprint at Penguin Random House. This exciting work has already received acclaim, making it the 2024 National Book Award for Young People’s Literature Finalist.

In her current role as Creative Director at Young Warriors, Violet is dedicated to cultivating spaces for Indigenous performance and practices. With training and experience relevant to mental health, she is also well-versed in traditional protocols and community engagement within Indigenous communities.

Violet's Featured Titles

Buffalo Dreamer

Nancy Paulsen Books |
Middle Grade

LONGLISTED FOR THE NATIONAL BOOK AWARD

An illuminating novel about the importance of reclaiming the past, based on the author’s family history

Summer and her family always spend relaxed summers in Alberta, Canada, on the reservation where her mom’s family lives. But this year is turning out to be an eye-opening one. First, Summer has begun to have vivid dreams in which she’s running away from one of the many real-life residential schools that tore Native children from their families and tried to erase their Native identities. Not long after that, she learns that unmarked children’s graves have been discovered at the school her grandpa attended as a child. Now more folks are speaking up about their harrowing experiences at these places, including her grandfather. Summer cherishes her heritage and is heartbroken about all her grandfather was forced to give up and miss out on. When the town holds a rally, she’s proud to take part to acknowledge the painful past and speak of her hopes for the future, and anxious to find someone who can fill her in on the source of her unsettling dreams.

I am Native

Young Warriors Books |
Children’s

I am Native, shares a glimpse into the wonderful world of a multigenerational Native family. This book showcases beautiful imagery of family members passing down traditions in both traditional and modern ways.

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Traditional Storytelling: Keeping Our Narratives Alive

This topic would delve into the significance of traditional storytelling as a means of preserving Indigenous culture and history. Violet would highlight the various types of stories, including trickster and creation stories, and discuss their moral lessons and cultural relevance. She also cover the tools and techniques needed to share these stories effectively in contemporary settings, such as workshops, community events, and digital platforms. The discussion would include the role of language preservation and revitalization, as well as the importance of engaging younger generations in the storytelling process to ensure that these narratives remain vibrant and relevant.

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Journey as a Writer

Violet will discuss “Writing Truth to Power”: Exploring the role of storytelling in addressing social issues and advocating for justice. She will also tell her story of “From Self-Published to Traditionally Published”: Sharing the journey of transitioning from self-publishing to traditional publishing and the challenges and rewards along the way.

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Residential School and Day School

In this talk, Violet will discuss four main areas:
-Family History: Discuss the generational impact of the Indian residential school system on family members, including parents, aunties, uncles, and grandparents, and how their experiences shape perspectives and healing processes.
-Personal Story as a Day School Survivor: Sharing personal experiences of the impact of day schools on Native children and families.
-Uncovering Unmarked Children’s Graves: Discuss the recent discoveries of unmarked graves and the collective trauma experienced by Native communities.
-Speaking Up About Harrowing Experiences: Addressing the importance of amplifying voices and stories of survivors of Indian residential school system.

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Children’s books as tools for equity and anti-racism

Children’s books serve as powerful tools for promoting equity and anti-racism by providing young readers with diverse perspectives, representation, and opportunities to learn about social justice issues. These books help challenge stereotypes, foster empathy, and promote inclusivity.

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Storytelling as a Tool for Social Change

Storytelling is a powerful tool for social change as it allows individuals to share their experiences, perspectives, and struggles in a compelling and relatable way. Through storytelling, important social issues can be brought to light, creating awareness, inspiring action, and fostering dialogue and understanding.

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First Nations/ Native American voices and identity

Native voices and perspectives play a crucial role in shaping identity and preserving cultural heritage. By amplifying these voices, we can learn about the rich histories, traditions, and struggles of Indigenous communities, and work towards promoting respect, recognition, and empowerment.

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Indigenous Motherhood: Grounding Our Future in an Ever-Changing Modern City

In this topic, Violet explores the unique challenges and strengths that Indigenous mothers face while raising their children in urban environments. She discusses the importance of cultural identity, community support, and the intergenerational transmission of knowledge as vital tools for grounding children in their heritage. Violet also examines the role of urban spaces in either facilitating or hindering Indigenous practices, such as access to traditional foods, community gatherings, and cultural education. Ultimately, emphasizing the resilience of Indigenous motherhood and how we can adapt to modernity while still honoring our roots.

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Traditional Storyteller: A Presentation of Timeless Tales for All Ages

In this presentation, Violet offers a dynamic storytelling experience that features a selection of traditional Indigenous tales, including trickster stories and creation myths. The presentation would cater to audiences of all ages, incorporating interactive elements such as audience participation, visual aids, and perhaps even music or dance. Violet aims to create an immersive atmosphere that not only entertains but also educates listeners about the cultural significance of each story. Additionally, she would discuss the themes and values embedded in these narratives, such as community, respect for nature, and the importance of humor in life, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of Indigenous perspectives.

Violet’s Shop Link

Honors, Awards & Recognition

BUFFALO DREAMER – Finalist for the 2024 National Book Award for Young People’s Literature
I AM NATIVE – 2020 Finalist International Book Award

Media Kit

By clicking the link below you will be directed to a Google Docs Folder
where you can download author photos and cover images.

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