Everything You Wanted to Know about Indians But Were Afraid to Ask: Young Readers Edition

From the acclaimed Ojibwe author and professor Anton Treuer comes an essential book of questions and answers for Native and non-Native young readers alike. Ranging from "Why is there such a fuss about nonnative people wearing Indian costumes for Halloween?" to "Why is it called a 'traditional Indian fry bread taco'?" to "What's it like for natives who don't look native?" to "Why are Indians so often imagined rather than understood?", and beyond, Everything You Wanted to Know About Indians But Were Afraid to Ask (Young Readers Edition) does exactly what its title says for young readers, in a style consistently thoughtful, personal, and engaging.

Updated and expanded to include:

• Dozens of New Questions and New Sections—including a social activism section that explores the Dakota Access Pipeline, racism, identity, politics, and more!
• Over 50 new Photos
• Adapted text for broad appeal

“A personal, reflective, yet thoroughly grounded take on the present as well as the past, and it’s a great starting place for young readers beginning to ask these exact questions.” -The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books,


“This would be a good resource for readers to begin learning about Native American histories, lives, and cultures.”-Horn Book,


[STAR] “Reading this book is like enjoying a talk with a close relative who wants you to learn, grow, and continue to ask questions. This book is an important resource about contemporary North American Indigenous peoples. ­Recommend for all libraries.”-School Library Journal (starred),


[STAR] “Wise, well-researched, and not to be missed. This collection of short essays about Native Americans is comprehensive, equitable, and generous.”-Kirkus (starred),


“A comprehensive and stimulating read.”-Shelf-Awareness,


“An excellent resource that should be in every middle and high school.”-School Library Connection,


“Treuer imbues his research and cultural commentary with both humanity and style. An astonishing depth of knowledge and insight complements his conversational writing voice. Treuer’s latest release should be on every American bookshelf - and in every American history classroom.” -Cowboys and Indians,


“This is a thoughtful, useful book. If every middle school kid in the country knew its contents, the upcoming generation of Indians and non-Indians could live side-by-side with far more ease.”-The Circle News,


“A wide-ranging compendium of provocative questions and satisfying answers is well organized around history, culture, politics, activism, identity, the future and more. Perfect for browsing or a deep dive. From a new imprint dedicated to publishing previously underrepresented voices, his most essential book succeeds in promoting better understanding for everyone.”-San Francisco Chronicle,


“An essential book of questions and answers for Native and non-Native young readers.”- IllumiNative,