"Christine Day has told a story that doesn't shy away from hard truths of the past and the present. But with a keen ear for the voice of an Indigenous girl finding her way, with compassion and love and poetry, this is a celebration of community, family, and identity. It will stay with you for a long time, in the best possible way." -- David A. Robertson, author of the Misewa Saga series "Wesley Wilder is big-hearted, thoughtful and kind. She's figuring out who she is in the context of a wonderful family while bravely becoming her unique, starry self--and she holds space for readers to do the same. I can't wait for them to meet her." -- Natalie Lloyd, author of A Snicker of Magic and Hummingbird "Told over the course of one day, this cozy and warm story captured my heart.
Readers will root for Wesley as she follows her heart and finds her voice. An important story of belonging and identity." -- Jasmine Warga, author of Other Words for Home "Christine Day writes books I want to crawl inside of. Here she brings us a cast of beautifully-drawn characters and creates a heartfelt story about young crushes, blooming friendships, and finding--and claiming--belonging." -- Tae Keller, Newbery Medal winning author of When You Trap a Tiger "This story, which weaves diversity into the supporting cast, incorporates layers of Native identity throughout, as Wesley connects with a new friend who is a young Native activist, learning more about Christopher Columbus. A rich, captivating story that will resonate with readers." -- Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "This is a story of quiet determination and triumph, with well-defined characters who push each other and are there for each other, and which culminates in sweet heart-to-heart conversations at a powwow in a high-school gym." -- Horn Book Magazine "Via Wesley's self-aware and astoundingly perceptive first-person voice, Day highlights everyday tween conflicts about fitting in alongside experiential concerns surrounding identifying with one's heritage in this warmhearted approach to searching for--and finding--community and inclusion.
" -- Publishers Weekly (starred review) "Cozy descriptions, likable characters, and teachable moments animate this occasionally didactic but ultimately heartwarming story about belonging. Acutely relatable and contemporary, this snapshot of a single day in Wesley's life authentically captures the struggle of being 12 and of finding--and using--your voice." -- Booklist (starred review) "'We Still Belong,' the title of Wesley's poem, becomes an essential invitation for children of all backgrounds." [audio edition] -- School Library Journal.