I Can Make This Promise

Twelve-year-old Edie discovers a box of items in her Seattle home that reveals secrets about her Native American heritage. Through this discovery, she begins to uncover the truth about her mother's past and her own identity. While navigating typical middle school challenges with her two best friends, Edie investigates the contents of the mysterious box and the connections to her family history. Her search leads her to learn about Native American adoptions and family separations that occurred in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s. The story addresses themes of identity, belonging, and intergenerational trauma through a young girl's quest to understand her place within her family and culture. The narrative provides historical context about Native American experiences while focusing on one family's personal journey.

Readers connect with the authentic portrayal of a 12-year-old discovering her Native American heritage. Many reviews highlight how the book handles complex themes of identity and family secrets at a middle-grade level. Readers appreciated: - Realistic depiction of middle school friendship dynamics - Educational value about Native American adoption history - The protagonist's emotional journey feels genuine - Strong family relationships Common criticisms: - Pacing feels slow in the middle sections - Some plot elements resolve too neatly - A few readers wanted more depth about Native culture Ratings: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (350+ ratings) Common Sense Media: 4/5 One reader noted: "The way Day handles difficult topics without overwhelming young readers is masterful." Another mentioned: "My daughter finally saw herself represented in a book character." Critical reviews often cited: "The story takes too long to get moving" and "The ending wraps up too quickly."

Indian No More by Traci Sorell The story follows a Native American girl in the 1950s whose family is forced to leave their reservation, exploring themes of identity and relocation similar to Edie's journey of cultural discovery.

Apple in the Middle by Dawn Quigley A mixed-race girl spends a summer on the Turtle Mountain Indian Reservation connecting with her Native American heritage through family stories and traditions.

The Sea in Winter by Christine Day A Native American middle schooler processes grief and healing while uncovering family connections on ancestral lands in the Pacific Northwest.

We Are Not Free by Traci Chee The interconnected stories of Japanese American teens during World War II illuminate the impact of hidden family history and governmental actions on young people's lives.

Show Me a Sign by Ann Clare LeZotte A deaf girl in a Martha's Vineyard community uncovers truths about her family's past and her tribe's history while confronting prejudice and misconceptions.

🌟 Author Christine Day is an enrolled citizen of the Upper Skagit tribe in Washington state and drew from her own Native American heritage to write this deeply personal story. 📚 The book was inspired by Day's discovery of her own mother's adoption papers and family history, similar to the main character Edie's journey in the story. 🏆 "I Can Make This Promise" was named a Best Book of the Year by NPR, received a 2020 American Indian Youth Literature Award Honor, and was included in the 2020 Global Read Aloud program. 🎭 The story sheds light on the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978, which was created to protect Native American children from being separated from their families and communities through adoption. 🖼️ The book's cover art features traditional Coast Salish designs, honoring the Pacific Northwest Native American heritage that is central to the story.