THE ANIMALS SPEAK: THE LAKOTA WAY, by S. D. Nelson and Dakota Goodhouse, Abrams Book for Young Readers, March 17, 2026, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 4-8)
Discover the interconnected nature of all living things in The Animals Speak: The Lakota Way, by S. D. Nelson and Dakota Goodhouse.
From our animal brothers and sisters, young readers can learn the Lakota Way, an ancient principle that transmits the virtues and values we should all strive to include in our own lives. If we watch and listen to their teachings, they will prepare us as we make our way through the joys and challenges of our mysterious, wondrous world.
“Mother Bear watches over her cubs, guiding us to walk with strength and protect those who need protecting.
“Otter, the playful swimmer, reminds us that games and laughter are good for our hearts.
And as Tadpole transforms into Frog, he demonstrates we’ll make changes in our lives too.” —Synopsis provided by Abrams Book for Young Readers
The Animals Speak is a beautifully rendered look at the Lakota notion that “we are all related.” That notion extends to all things ranging from Creepy-crawlies to Water beings to Green, Growing Things. The Lakota tradition that the wild ones possess an ancient wisdom that we can learn from if we listen.
Award-winning Lakota author-artist S. D. Nelson was inspired by traditional Lakota pictographs and ledger-book drawings. Her acrylic paint illustrations are vibrant and full of movement. Her simple text provides names in both English and Lakota along with calls to action like moving with balance and grace and being a good friend to one another.
The Animals Speak would make a wonderful addition to any home or school library.
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