Review Detail

The Sacred Stone Camp is a beautifully illustrated story about the Lakota Nation's fight against the DAPL's "Black Snake."

Rae Rose wrote a lovely tribute to Indigenous activist LaDonna BraveBull Allard.
Water protectors gather to defend Unci Maka (Grandmother Earth) against an oil pipeline. Told mostly through the eyes of a young girl, this is an account of the Sacred Stone Camp's first day. Readers learn why it is called Sacred Stone Camp, as well as several other important tidbits.

The back matter features a glossary, as well as several photographs of the Sacred Stone (which is also depicted in the book), LaDonna BraveBull and some members of her family, and other important photos. There is also a paragraph with additional information on the protestors who stood with LaDonna to take action against the pipeline and a motivational message for protecting the future.

The illustrations are magnificent. Aly McKnight uses watercolor to bring the story to life. The way the colors bleed together really bring movement and life to each image.

This would be a fantastic book to add to an Indigenous Peoples lesson plan. Written for children ages 5 to 9, but anyone will be moved by this wonderful story.