Traci Sorell

Imagine designing top-secret airplanes and spacecraft that fly faster than you can believe. Mary Golda Ross did exactly that as the very first female engineer for the Lockheed Aircraft Corporation. You will follow Mary's incredible journey, starting from when she was the only girl sitting in her high school math class. Guided by a fierce passion for numbers and the strong Cherokee values she learned growing up, Mary became a teacher before stepping into the highly classified world of aerospace engineering. Discover how she used her talents to help reach the stars while keeping her feet firmly planted in her community. By working together, remaining humble, and mentoring other Native Americans and young women, Mary proved that education and equal opportunity can launch anyone into an extraordinary future.

Native American history is not a finished chapter from the past. It is a vibrant, living story that continues today. Through the voices of twelve Native kids, you will discover the powerful truths about the past, present, and future of Indigenous peoples. You will learn about important topics that are often left out of school lessons, from the revival of Native languages and the defense of civil rights to the rebuilding of strong tribal nations. Even through difficult times of forced relocation and unfair laws, the message rings out loud and clear: We are still here! With beautiful lyrical words, this inspiring journey shows how Native nations have survived and thrived. You will see the strength of self-determination and the deep roots of cultural persistence that carry Indigenous communities forward.

At the base of a great mountain sits a cozy cabin tucked under an old hickory tree. Inside, you will find a loving Cherokee family gathering together. They spend their days weaving colorful patterns, cooking warm meals, and singing beautiful songs. But their hearts are also up in the clouds. Their joyful songs carry a deep strength that helps them through difficult times, both on the ground and high in the sky. They are waiting patiently for their beloved family member, a brave female pilot, to return safely from war. Discover the powerful bonds of family and the true history of Native American women who served their country. Through patience and tradition, this family shows how our roots keep us grounded while our dreams help us soar.

Step up to the plate and witness a groundbreaking moment in sports history. In 1911, John Meyers and Charles Bender became the very first Native American professional baseball players to face off in the World Series. Charles grew up on the White Earth Reservation, while John was raised on the Cahuilla reservation. They both shared a deep love for baseball and a commitment to representing their heritage on the field. The newspapers tried to invent a bitter rivalry between them, but these athletes refused to be pitted against each other. Instead, they faced the stadium's prejudice with incredible resilience and mutual respect. You will learn how they shattered barriers and achieved their dreams, playing in nine championships combined. Their true story is a powerful reminder to pursue what you love and stand strong against injustice.

The Cherokee people use the word otsaliheliga to express a deep, lasting gratitude. As you journey through a full Cherokee year, you will see how this beautiful concept shapes everyday life. Beginning in the crisp autumn of the new year and ending in the warm days of summer, you will explore modern Native American traditions. Discover how the community gathers to celebrate the rich blessings and brave the tough challenges that every changing season brings. From quiet family meals to joyful community festivals, you will experience the enduring spirit of a thriving culture. This journey highlights the importance of honoring the past while embracing the present. You will learn new words from the Cherokee syllabary and see how expressing thankfulness connects us all to the world around us.

Vann loves nothing more than the thrilling rush of playing stickball with his tribe in the Cherokee Nation. The field is fast, the players are quick, and the sound of the sticks clacking echoes in the air. But Vann has a problem: he is just not as skilled as the rest of his teammates. During a big game, Vann stumbles and misses his chance to score. You will feel his frustration as he tries his hardest to keep up. But being a star player is not the only way to help your team win. This fast-paced sports adventure will show you the true meaning of teamwork and sportsmanship. Discover the ancient origins of Cherokee stickball and learn how determination and a supportive spirit are the most important skills you can bring to the game.

Packing up to move to a new place is always a big adventure. Today is moving day, and one young Cherokee girl is getting ready to say goodbye to the busy city she has always known. She is waving goodbye to her favorite swing and getting into the car with her mother. As you ride along with her, you will watch the city buildings fade away and the natural landscape stretch out outside the window. You will feel her excitement growing as she travels closer to her family's ancestral land. At the end of the long drive, a wonderful celebration is waiting, filled with family feasts and fun in the creek. This warm and happy story shows what it feels like to finally arrive at the place you belong. It is a beautiful journey about family, memory, and the wonderful feeling of coming home.

The drums are beating, and it is finally powwow day. You know the sounds and feelings of this special celebration so well, but this year is different for River. After dealing with a serious illness, she is still too weak to join the dancing. Instead of stepping into the circle with her sisters and cousins, River must sit on the sidelines and watch. You will feel her sadness and isolation as she longs to be out there in her jingle dress. But as you listen to the steady rhythm of the drum and watch the swirling colors of the dancers, something magical happens. River begins to understand the deep healing power of her community. Experience the joy of tribal traditions and the comforting warmth of family. The music might just give River the hope and strength she needs to believe she will dance again.