Storyteller: Qahir

Author: Katie Kissinger

Artwork: Chenoa Barton

BEAT THE DRUM is a new book about a Native American child who is assigned female but challenges both gender and tribal stereotypes to be who she is. The book is a collaborative project between the Storyteller, the Author, and the Illustrator, one of whom is a member of and another a descendent of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde. Beat The Drum is bilingual in English and Chinuk which is the trade language of many Tribes in the West. The story introduces the terminology "two-spirit" and affirms gender fluid identity as well as highlighting traditional Tribal art. The artwork in the book inspires a connection to the earth and to the journey this child travels to sit in the full power of their true self.

Age range from 3 years to 10 years.

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Reviewed by Rethinking Schools

Book Author: Katie Kissinger

“We’re delighted to see this 20th anniversary edition of Katie Kissinger’s classic book, All the Colors We Are. Kissinger—author of the memorable Rethinking Schools article “Holding Nyla”—has written a book that deals with skin color in a straightforward, scientifically accurate, child-friendly manner. Young children are curious about why people have different skin colors, and too often teachers are tempted to brush this curiosity aside in the name of a glib “We’re all the same.” The book is the product of Kissinger’s years-long work with children, and features valuable teaching suggestions to get children thinking imaginatively and unself-consciously about skin color. The book, including teaching ideas, is fully bilingual in English and Spanish.”

Age range from 3 years to 10 years.

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Reviewed by Deborah Menkart

Review Source: Teaching for Change

Book Author: Katie Kissinger

“Katie Kissinger is the author of the popular bilingual picture book All the Colors We Are: The Story of How We Get Our Skin Color. Her new book is an invaluable guide for teachers on how to address race and other issues in the classroom—including gender, class, physical ability, and different kinds of families.

Based on decades of firsthand experience, each chapter includes vivid descriptions of classroom practice and explanations of the issues that are steeped in research yet written in lay terms. At the end of each chapter are guided tasks or questions. These are offered at three levels: beginner, ally, and activist. Recommended for early childhood teachers and parents.”

Order your copy here!