I think that the beauty of this book really needs to be experienced as a print copy!
Beautifully illustrated in a very creative way are the specific characteristics, general location, and some cultural aspects of 22 different but often similar Indigenous peoples living in every corner of the world we share regardless of their color, creed, or state of freedom. Some are nomads, some are fisherfolk, some venerate bird or dogs or other fauna. Most continue with the oral traditions and beliefs but some use writing, tattoos, or tapestry to pass along their histories, some must be defiant against those who live under governments that are hostile to their ways and beliefs. The stories are inspired by direct testimonies and data obtained from various documentary sources. I took notes and made lists so I would remember, but that's not good enough. Great for gifting to EVERYone, but especially to a school or your local public library! I preordered a copy for myself.
We are all one.
"If there is a forest, there will be flowers. If there are flowers, there will be gods." Orang Rimba, Sumatra.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital galley from Publisher Spotlight | Red Comet Press via NetGalley. Pub Date Sep 09, 2025 #bookbub #goodreads #storygraph #librarything
#Origin by #NatCardozo @nat.ilustradora @redcometpressbooks @pubspotlight #translated
#illuminatedbook #indigenous #fantasticbook #culturalexplorations #documentary

Origin is a stunning picture book that beautifully captures the deep connection between Indigenous cultures and the lands they call home. Each page highlights a different group of people, and their story is told through the eyes of a child. The illustrations are absolutely lovely - each child is drawn in a unique way that reflects the features of their homeland.

Although it is labeled as a children's nonfiction book, I honestly think readers of all ages can enjoy it. It’s a great introduction to a variety of Indigenous groups and could be a springboard for deeper learning. I personally discovered several cultures I wasn’t familiar with, and it definitely sparked my curiosity to learn more.

As a homeschooling parent, I can’t wait to incorporate Origin into our lessons about world cultures. It’s a gentle, engaging way to start those conversations with kids.

Origin has earned 5 stars from me. I recommend it to anyone looking to introduce diverse cultures to their children, or just to learn more themselves. Many thanks to NetGalley and Red Comet Press for the opportunity to read an advance copy.

This really was amazing and is the kind of book that should have a hard copy in homes and schools. The descriptions of the wildly different but fascinating people were short but so descriptive. This is a wonderful book to share.

Visually rich and stunning, 'Origin' is a wonderfully engaging glimpse into the lives of a typical child in various Indigenous communities around the world. Each community is highlighted with beautiful descriptions of the land, people, traditions, and mythology. As another reviewer mentioned, I wish there'd been a pronunciation guide for words, but regardless I learned so, so much!

This will make a great addition to any child's library. Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I desperately wish this E-ARC was better formatted because it would have received five stars. I was entranced in the way the stories of each indigenous tribe was told, but the formatting for the ARC was so poor that it was hard to follow, hard to read, and I was confused at several points.

It was truly beautiful from what I COULD read. Each tribe tells you a story that transports you into their life and into Mother Earth. It's incredibly important to hear and LISTEN to marginalized voices in today's society, books like this are needed now more than ever.

Learning about indigenous languages dying out every two weeks, how many tribes were left on Earth-It was all information that you don't hear every day or in classrooms. This book should be readily available in schools.

I want to pick up a physical copy as soon as it's available!

Origin by Nat Cardozo is a visually rich and deeply moving tribute to Indigenous children and their communities around the world, highlighting their deep connection to the land and their role as guardians of the natural environment. Through first-person stories and stunning illustrations, the book invites readers to reflect on our shared human roots, the power of community, and the urgent need to protect both cultural heritage and biodiversity.

This book was utterly breathtaking in its vivid and imaginative illustrations. Each child is portrayed with such stunning creativity and care that I often found myself pausing just to take in the artwork. Truly, these illustrations belong in art galleries. I would hang them on my own walls if I could. They celebrate not only the individual children but the beauty of each culture represented, and they radiate a sense of joy and pride. It’s so important for children to see books like this, where kids from around the world are represented with respect, warmth, and authenticity.

I learned so much about the tribes featured in this book, many of which I had never heard of before. From where they live to their customs, foods, writing systems, and daily life, each entry expanded my understanding of Indigenous communities across the globe. It was a reminder that “Indigenous” is a global term, not limited to one country or continent. A quote from the Cherokee people stood out to me: “We don’t take what we want from nature, just what we need.” That wisdom is at the heart of this book’s message.

The only thing I found missing was a pronunciation guide for each tribe's name. I wanted to be able to say them properly and respectfully. Still, this is a spectacular and important book that belongs in homes, classrooms, and libraries. It is as educational as it is beautiful and will leave a lasting impression on both children and adults.

Thank you to NetGalley and Publisher Spotlight Red Comet Press for the gift of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.