Red Bird Danced by Dawn Quigley
Published by Heartdrum on June 4, 2024
ISBN: 0063223627
Genres: Fiction in Verse/Poetry
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

This novel-in-verse is told in the alternating voices of Ariel and Tomah who are urban Native Americans – they live in a Native American housing complex. This may be a new concept to many readers. Ariel takes up jingle dress dancing not only to honor her heritage but to save money. Money is tight since her beloved Aunt has disappeared. As time passes, Ariel learns about the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (#MMIW) movement. Thousands of Indigenous Women are murdered or reported missing each year and several groups are working to create awareness of the problem and help organize searches for these women. Tomah is an observer – he watches over the birds and the people in their housing complex. When he falls ill, the community rallies to watch over him. Although Tomah struggles academically, he is a gifted storyteller and uses his gift to help Ariel raise awareness for missing Indigineous women by displaying red dresses, a la the REDress project. Don’t let the short length fool you – this book packs a powerful punch. Readers will be inspired to learn more about #MMIW and the REDress Project. A good choice for middle grade readers who are looking for a story based on real events and a cause to rally around.

Reviewed by Karen Sandlin Silverman, Mt. Ararat Middle School, Topsham