Too Much: My Great Big Native Family -- Book Review

 

Disclosure: I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Today I get to share with you a new picture book about a Native American family and it is written and illustrated by Native Americans. The book was released this week!! The book is Too Much: My Great Big Native Family by Laurel Goodluck and illustrated by Bridget George. It is recommended for ages 4 to 8.

From the Publisher:

A little boy wants a chance to shine on his own but discovers that being apart from his large and lively Native family isn’t necessarily better in this heartwarming and humorous picture book.

When Russell gets a part in the school play, he lights up like a shining star—and he can’t wait to tell his big, boisterous Native family the exciting news. But catching their attention when they all get together feels impossible; no matter where they go, they seem to be too noisy, too many, and just too much!

Russell decides to keep his big debut to himself and fly solo for once…but being alone may not be the answer. After all, there’s no such thing as too much love, and when he needs them most, his great big family knows how to be just enough.

From Me:

What a fun book! It is about a young Native boy who sometimes feels unheard, unseen and pushed aside as his large family gathers for various family time (museums, aquariums, movies and more). He is very excited for the role in his school's play that he got. He doesn't tell his family the day of the show because he wants to try something solo. However, when no one is there to cheer him on, he realizes his mistake and let's his family know during intermission. They show up and are there for him. 

What I love about this book is how it shares the importance of family in Native cultures. Russell shares that he is trying to learn his part but keeps getting interrupted with family time. Family time seems crowded and not exactly what he is hoping for, but in the end his family comes through for him. Although much of the story could apply to just about any child, the culture is also there. I love that the author and the illustrator are both Native. 

This book is perfect to learn about different cultures and different family traditions. It is also just a fun book that I think many kids will like and relate to. I can see this book shared in a group setting (class or story time) with a discussion of family traditions and family time. I love that it can introduce Native culture to kids as well. I hope you will check it out!