Dawn Quigley Knihy

Set against the backdrop of an intertribal housing complex, the story follows Tomah and Ariel as they navigate a transformative autumn season. Tomah, a natural comedian, feels a deep connection with Ariel, who struggles with her ballet dancing after her Auntie’s mysterious disappearance. As winter fades and spring approaches, both characters embark on a journey of self-discovery, learning to share their personal rhythms and stories, ultimately finding solace and strength in their friendship amid their challenges.

Jo Jo Makoons embraces the importance of health within her community, inspired by her loved ones' unique approaches to wellness. When a snowstorm hits her Ojibwe reservation, she creatively engages with both Elders and classmates to promote healthy habits. Through her imaginative spirit and vibrant personality, Jo Jo emphasizes the value of togetherness in achieving well-being. This installment in the series highlights her caring nature and humor as she navigates challenges and fosters a sense of community.

Filled with lots of glitter, raised pinkies, and humorous misunderstandings, this second book in the Jo Jo Makoons series--written by Dawn Quigley and illustrated by Tara Audibert--is filled with the joy of a young Ojibwe girl discovering her very own special shine from the inside out. First grader Jo Jo Makoons knows how to do a lot of things, like how to play jump rope, how to hide her peas in her milk, and how to be helpful in her classroom. But there's one thing Jo Jo doesn't know how to do: be fancy. She has a lot to learn before her Aunt Annie's wedding! Favorite purple unicorn notebook in hand, Jo Jo starts exploring her Ojibwe community to find ways to be fancy. The Heartdrum imprint centers a wide range of intertribal voices, visions, and stories while welcoming all young readers, with an emphasis on the present and future of Indian Country and on the strength of young Native heroes. In partnership with We Need Diverse Books.

Hello/Boozhoo--meet Jo Jo Makoons! Full of pride, joy, and plenty of humor, this first book in an all-new chapter book series by Dawn Quigley celebrates a spunky young Ojibwe girl who loves who she is. Jo Jo Makoons Azure is a spirited seven-year-old who moves through the world a little differently than anyone else on her Ojibwe reservation. It always seems like her mom, her kokum (grandma), and her teacher have a lot to learn--about how good Jo Jo is at cleaning up, what makes a good rhyme, and what it means to be friendly. Even though Jo Jo loves her #1 best friend Mimi (who is a cat), she's worried that she needs to figure out how to make more friends. Because Fern, her best friend at school, may not want to be friends anymore... The Heartdrum imprint centers a wide range of intertribal voices, visions, and stories while welcoming all young readers, with an emphasis on the present and future of Indian Country and on the strength of young Native heroes. In partnership with We Need Diverse Books.

Jo Jo struggles with the numerous rules imposed by her substitute teacher, showcasing her spirited personality and creativity. As she navigates the challenges of adhering to these guidelines, readers are treated to her unique perspective and humorous antics. This installment in the series highlights Jo Jo's journey of self-discovery and the importance of balancing rules with individuality.