About this book

Ten-year-old Anang wants to make a ribbon skirt, a piece of clothing typically worn by girls in the Anishinaabe tradition, for an upcoming powwow. Anang is two-spirit and nonbinary and doesn't know what others will think of them wearing a ribbon skirt, but they're determined to follow their heart's desire. Anang sets off to gather the materials needed to make the skirt and turns to those around them -- their family, their human and turtle friends, the crows, and even the lake itself -- for help. And maybe they'll even find a new confidence within themself along the way.

Reviews

★ "Mukwa clearly and concisely communicates the nature of being two-spirited in this dazzling graphic novel debut... An enlightening and satisfying look at one child’s desire to advocate for themself and be respected by those around them." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review

★ "This graphic novel tugs at the heartstrings. The story, though simple on the surface, explores deep themes of acceptance, friendship, belonging, and hope." -- School Library Journal, starred review

★ "The end of the book has engaging and informative details about topics including the history of ribbon skirts as well as how to behave if you visit a public powwow. A thorough bibliography and a series of informative author's notes for anyone interested in the history, culture, or the Southwestern Ojibwe words and phrases woven throughout the story wrap up the work. A heartwarmingly lovely story of a two-spirit child finding self-confidence, acceptance, and joy." -- Booklist, starred review

"Give this book to anyone who needs a bit of reassurance that they’re courageous enough to be themselves." -- The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"A wonderful graphic novel about friendship, support, and embracing your authentic self." -- Andrew King, bookseller, Ridgecrest Books in Shoreline, WA