In her recently published picture book, Forever Cousins, Laurel Goodluck captures the familiar feelings we face when reuniting with family after time apart. Will they be happy to see me? This heartfelt story follows cousins and best friends, Amanda and Kara, one who moves to the city, and one who continues to live on the Rez. The following summer, they reconnect at the annual family reunion; while celebrating their Native culture through snacks and powwow dances, they learn their bond is unchanged. 

In the Author’s note, Goodluck shares that her own family was impacted by the Indian Relocation Act of 1956. By detailing her own experience, we learn that her experience as an intertribal Native American family member is similar to the story she wrote. 

This stirring and informative story is ideal for the older Primary-aged or younger Elementary-aged child.

– Emma Cherry, MNW Staff