Indigenous-Authored Audiobooks for Young Kids
When I was little, my dad would pile my siblings and me into our minivan for library trips. While they groaned, I couldn’t wait to check out a new book or press play on one of the old PCs that brought stories to life. That early love for storytelling has stayed with me, especially as I’ve grown to understand the power of hearing stories told by those who speak from lived experiences and cultural truth.
For many of us, our first introduction to Indigenous history has come through a simplified version of Thanksgiving. But the real stories go much deeper. Listening to Indigenous authors helps kids learn truth, empathy, and respect for cultures that are too often misrepresented or erased. Audiobooks make it easy for kids and classrooms to explore these voices during Native American History Month, Thanksgiving, or any time of the year.
Listening to Indigenous stories is more than creating feather hats and paper dresses — it’s an invitation to learn from and honor Indigenous voices around the world.
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Add to BookshelfI Am My Name
by Na'kuset and Judith Henderson
Read by Na’kuset
In this powerful autobiographical story, Cree activist Na’kuset shares her experience as a young girl taken from her family during Canada’s Sixties Scoop, a government program that removed Indigenous children from their communities. This moving audiobook follows Na’kuset’s journey of identity and rediscovery as she learns the truth about her past and reclaims her culture, name, and voice. Heartfelt narration and vivid storytelling make this an essential listen for young readers learning about Indigenous history, resilience, and belonging.
Ages 6 – 9
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At the Mountain’s Base
by Traci Sorell
Read by Kimberly Guerrero
A family, separated by duty and distance, waits for a loved one to return home in this lyrical story celebrating the bonds of a Cherokee family and the bravery of history-making women pilots. This poignant audiobook reveals the roots that ground us, the dreams that help us soar, and the people and traditions that hold us up. Featuring an author’s note honoring real life Native American service members like WWII pilot Ola Mildred “Millie” Rexroat, it beautifully depicts the courage, love, and resilience that connect generations.
Ages 4 – 8
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Remember
by Joy Harjo
Read by Joy Harjo
Adapted from her iconic poem, U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo of the Mvskoke Nation invites young listeners to pause and reflect on the wonders of the world around them — and to remember the importance of their place in it. Through simple yet powerful language, this audiobook honors the beauty of family, nature, and the sacred ties that unite all living things.
Ages 4 – 8
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This Land
by Ashley Fairbanks
Read by Sarah Podemski
This Land introduces children to the idea that the land we live, learn, and play on — from our backyards to Disney World — is the traditional homeland of many Indigenous nations. Every piece of land has a story. With engaging narration and vivid storytelling, this audiobook encourages young listeners to ask questions, explore their local history, and recognize the lasting connection between the land and the people who care for it.
Ages 4 – 8
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Finding My Dance
by Ria Thundercloud
Read by Ria Thundercloud
Professional dancer Ria Thundercloud shares her inspiring journey of self-expression and cultural pride. From her first jingle dress powwow at age four to discovering new styles like tap, jazz, and ballet, Ria’s love for dance becomes a celebration of her Native American heritage. This heartfelt audiobook reminds young listeners that embracing who they are can help them find their rhythm, in dance and in life.
Ages 4 – 8
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Contenders
by Traci Sorell
Read by Traci Sorell
This remarkable true story follows Charles Bender and John Meyers, the first two Native American baseball players to face off in a World Series. Despite facing racism and a media-fueled rivalry, both players stayed true to their passion for baseball and their shared mission to represent their communities on and off the field. This audiobook highlights perseverance, respect, and the enduring impact of Native athletes who changed the game.
Ages 6 – 9
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Summer’s Magic
by Kaitlin B. Curtice
Read by Kaitlin B. Curtice
Bo, a proud Potawatomi boy, loves spending summer days tending his garden, walking his dog, and splashing in the river with his sister, Dani. When he discovers that their favorite spot has been polluted, he realizes that caring for the Earth is part of what makes summer special. With courage, he overcomes his shyness and invites new friends to join him in protecting the land he loves. Filled with warmth, this audiobook celebrates the beauty of Anishinaabe culture and the magic that unfolds when we honor our planet together.
Ages 3 – 7
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8
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Kapaemahu
by Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu, Dean Hamer and Joe Wilson
Read by Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu
This Hawaiian legend tells the story of four Mahu who sailed from Tahiti to Hawaii, sharing their sacred gifts of healing and knowledge. To honor them, the people of Waikiki built four great stones that the Mahu imbued with their spiritual power before vanishing into the sea. Over time, their story was nearly forgotten, but the stones still stand as a quiet reminder of balance, identity, and healing. This audiobook helps young listeners discover and preserve the legacy of the Mahu, celebrating the lasting power of Indigenous storytelling.
Ages 4 – 8
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