Rating: 5 Stars
This picture book, We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga by Traci Sorell, honors the Cherokee way of being grateful for the many blessings received. In a sense, it is a celebration of all things Cherokee. The author, being Cherokee herself, has brought her special brand of insight to the views of her people and how they celebrate throughout the year.
It is beautifully illustrated by Frane` Lessac in the folk art tradition. The colors are vivid, imaginative and want to jump off the page. You can see that special care was given to each scene depicted in order to make this book special.
I liked that the text is in both English and in Cherokee and how the author explained the Cherokee celebrations in such a way that all can understand. There is really not a plot here. It read more like a commentary, which I am not faulting, because it is a picture book after all.
This is a lovely picture book for ages 3 to 8 years that is thoughtfully done. My granddaughter and I have already read it several times and I think this will be one of her favorites. I highly recommend this to all young readers. I received a free copy from the author at BEA in exchange for my honest opinion.