At the Mountain's Base

At the Mountain's Base introduces a Cherokee family living at the foot of a mountain during World War II. A grandmother weaves at her loom while thinking of a family member who is far away. This picture book features lyrical text by Cherokee author Traci Sorell paired with illustrations by Native artist Weshoyot Alvitre. The story has been published in both English and Cherokee language editions. The book examines themes of family bonds, Native American military service, and the intersection of traditional practices with modern life. Its exploration of waiting, worry, and hope resonates across cultures while highlighting specific Cherokee experiences.

Most readers appreciate this picture book's focus on Native American military service through a Cherokee family's perspective. The woven imagery and connection between weaving and waiting resonates with many parents and teachers who read it with children. Readers liked: - The lyrical writing style and circular narrative structure - Celebration of Native women in military service - Culturally authentic representation - Kokum Lita's illustrations capturing both traditional and modern elements Some readers noted: - The story feels brief at 32 pages - The abstract concept may be challenging for young children - Limited historical context provided Ratings: Goodreads: 4.18/5 (335 ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (122 ratings) Multiple reviewers highlighted the book's value for teaching about Native American contributions to military service. One librarian noted it "fills an important gap in children's literature about indigenous service members." Several teachers mentioned successfully using it for Veterans Day discussions with elementary students.

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🌟 The book is inspired by Native American women like Ola Mildred "Millie" Rexroat, the only Native American woman to serve as a WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots) during World War II. 🌟 Author Traci Sorell is an enrolled citizen of the Cherokee Nation and drew from her community's strong tradition of military service when writing this story. 🌟 The book's unique structure mirrors traditional Cherokee basket weaving patterns, with the narrative moving between home and sky like interwoven strands. 🌟 Native Americans serve in the U.S. military at five times the national average, maintaining a centuries-old warrior tradition of protecting their communities. 🌟 The book's illustrator, Weshoyot Alvitre, is of Tongva descent and carefully incorporated authentic Cherokee patterns and cultural elements into the artwork.