Upcoming Release of First Children’s Book by Barnes
Waynesville, Mo. – A New Children’s Book Celebrates Cherokee Heritage
Cherokee Nation citizen Twila Barnes is poised to make a significant impact on children’s literature with the release of her debut book, “The Cherokee People, Culture, and History,” set to launch on August 1. Published by Capstone Publishing, this work not only emphasizes the rich history and culture of the Cherokee tribe but also aims to introduce readers to the broader tapestry of Native American life, touching on other tribes as well.
With a focused approach, Barnes has crafted a narrative limited to 1,500 words, dedicating 500 of those to a concise yet impactful examination of Cherokee history. “My goal was to ensure that every Cherokee child who reads the book can see at least a part of their own history reflected in its pages,” said Barnes. She worked diligently to select historical facts that resonate with young readers, emphasizing untold stories and unique perspectives.
As a genealogist, Barnes’s expertise shapes her storytelling. Unlike historians who often contextualize events from a macro perspective, she examines history through the experiences of individuals who lived during those times. “Genealogists look at the people behind historical events,” she explained. This approach allows for a more personal and engaging narrative that resonates with children, providing them with relatable figures and stories that they can connect with on a deeper level.
The book’s cover features Barnes’s granddaughter adorned with a necklace crafted by a descendant of Sequoyah, the renowned Cherokee scholar and creator of the Cherokee syllabary, along with traditional earrings made by a fluent speaker of the Cherokee language. “Everything about this book is 100% Cherokee,” Barnes noted, highlighting the importance of authentic representation. She believes that such imagery challenges misconceptions about Indigenous identity and portrays the everyday lives of Cherokee children.
Barnes also commended Capstone for their willingness to embrace fresh ideas and challenge antiquated stereotypes surrounding the Cherokee community. She emphasized the need to acknowledge the legitimate existence of the three federally recognized Cherokee tribes in education, thus fostering a comprehensive understanding of Native American histories among the wider American public.
To support her mission and explore the cultural nuances within her book, readers can pre-order “The Cherokee People, Culture, and History” at Twila Barnes’s official website. By doing so, they not only acquire a piece of literature but also contribute to a greater awareness of Cherokee heritage and its significance in the broader narrative of American history.
