
By Art Coulson, Winona Nelson (Illustrator)
A boy learns the power of community over individual glory.
Clay wants to be the star of the week, but his grandmother teaches him the Cherokee lesson of gadugi—community over individualism. As he navigates this wisdom, Clay wonders about his own importance. Can he find his place in a world where everyone shines together? This heartfelt tale invites readers to explore the balance between self and community, enriched by traditional beadwork illustrations.
Last Stop on Market Street meets We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga in this sweet, bighearted picture book about a young boy who learns the Cherokee lesson of gadugi–how working together and helping each other makes the whole community stronger. When eager Clay asks his elisi (grandmother) for help to be named star of the week at school, he’s surprised by her answer: No one person is more important than his family and his community. But is Clay still important at all? This contemplative exploration of community, individualism, and responsibility–accentuated with traditional beadwork in the art–is a moving invitation to consider an indigenous perspective of one’s place in the world and how we all light up our sky, together.
Surprise a reader with their next favorite book.
Spotted a mistake or something missing? Improve this page.
Are you the author or illustrator? Claim your book.