Of the Sun: A Poem for the Land's First Peoples. Words by Xelena González and art by Emily Kewageshig.

This children's book is exceptionally put together. It reinforces pride in Indigeneity across North and South America, drawing connections from the Inuit in the Arctic to the Yámana in the southernmost tip of South America. I like its erasure of borders and states to centre the fluidity of Indigenous Nations and people.

Sometimes the poem has awkward rhythms, but the message is clear – which is the most important element. It integrates so many aspects of Indigenous life, from land ("la tierra"), agriculture, and customs to colonialism, state boundaries, and land back movements. And yet, it does not read as overwhelming but as a succinct, overlapping story.

The art is amazing, using symbols from different Indigenous cultures and customs: feathers, flowers, buffalo, constellations, cacti, and ancestors, among others. Just look at this beautiful cover on its own.

The end of the book describes some Indigenous Nations and key customs, like dances, clothing, and food. I appreciate that this book both tells a story and teaches about specific Indigenous Nations. I actually wish it had even more nonfiction content – perhaps an idea for a future book.

Thank you to Publisher Spotlight and Barefoot Books for making this ARC available! I will definitely be purchasing it for my ESL school's library.

5 stars

Of The Sun is a beautiful poem that has been crafted into a children's book. The poem seems to be written to Indigenous youth from all over North, Central and South America. The illustrations are beautiful and the message is as well. This book would be a great addition to any public, school or personal library.

Thank you Net Galley, Xelena Gonzalez and Barefoot Books for the opportunity to preview this title. The opinions shared are my own.
Of The Sun is expected to be released Aug 19, 2025.

What a vibrant, beautiful love letter to the Indigenous peoples of Turtle Island/North America. 'Of the Sun' is an exploration of history, tradition, resilience, and the profound pride that lives in the hearts of the land's first peoples. The poem is absolutely stunning by itself, but the equally stunning artwork takes it to the next level!

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This was book was beautiful from the artwork to the poem itself. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.

Of the Sun
Xelena González, Illustrated by Emily Kewageshig
Beautifully illustrated book that shows the natural connections of nature and native spiritual identity. The poetry of the story shows how nature brings comfort to individuals during difficult times.

My ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This was a lovely book with beautiful artwork. Even though it’s a short children’s book, I learned a lot!

I loved this book so much! Such a sweet and powerful poem for young-to-established readers. A beautiful storytelling of the Native people (indigenous) throughout the Americas. Emily Kewageshig did such incredible work on cover and illustrations. I also really enjoyed the extra facts on some of the tribes at the back of the book.

"On this land you may roam, child of the sun, on this land, you are home."

Such a vibrant, color-rich book, stunning illustrations. Although its voice is clearly rooted in Native American heritage, I read it as if spellbound, soaking in every page.
The final spread, sharing stories from many Indigenous peoples across the Americas, is especially informative and meaningful for a picture book, allowing kids of different ages to feel empathy and curiosity.
It’s impossible to rewrite history, but today it’s crucial to honor, cherish, and respect the cultures and people who were here long before us.

This book is such a good read. I loved the whole story it tells. It is told in such a beautiful way. I definitely recommend everyone reading it.

✨ Review ✨ Of the Sun: A Poem for the Land's First Peoples by Xelena González, Illustrated by Emily Kewageshig

Thanks to Barefoot Books and #netgalley for the gifted advanced copy/ies of this book!

This gorgeously illustrated kids book celebrates Indigenous identity with passion and pride. The artwork is colorful, bold, and eye-catching. The words are poetic, filled with pride to be among the First Peoples of this land

It's perfect for kids, and a great read for classes for Indigenous Peoples Day / Month, Thanksgiving, or any time!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: picture book
Pub Date: August 19, 2025

The illustrations and the lyrics of this poem are beautiful and captivating. There are celebrations of indiginelous people's contributions and connections to the earth, hope and prayers for the future and dreams for the children who may inherit the lands.

I highly recommend this lovely book for anyone who wants to learn more about first nations people.

Poet and activist Xelena Gonzalez writes a lyrical picture book in poetic verse to inspire Indigenous children to continue connecting to their culture and land. Kewageshig’s illustrations are vivid and earthy, depicting the people and traditions of tribal nations across North, Central and South America, shown in modern and traditional clothing. This lively picture book inspires action with a positive message.

There is one minor hint to the atrocities that occurred during/after colonization, but considering the age range and positive tone of the book, it is appropriate.

This is a quick read aloud for story time. The book offers a wide range of appeal beyond its recommended audience of preschool- kindergarten. I would recommend up to grade 3. Even older students can discuss themes and imagery. The map with specific tribal nations near the end of the book offers interesting facts about each unique nation and could provide a stepping off point for further research.

Thank you NetGalley and Barefoot books for this eARC.