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Spirit Shadow

Name: Spirit Shadow
Price: 18.99 USD
Availability: InStock
Author: Ginger Reno
ISBN: 9780823453108

Hardcover $18.99

Published on Mar 17, 2026 | 32 Pages

Buy from Other Retailers:

$18.99

Published on Mar 17, 2026 | 32 Pages

Buy from Other Retailers:

An Indigenous child discovers her heritage in this story about the power of our ancestors and the way they guide and shapes us, even when we don’t know it yet.

Willa has always had two shadows. One at her feet and another that’s been quietly beside her since the night of her birth. Always just out of reach.

Until Mom and Willa take a trip to Diligwa, a replica of an ancient Cherokee village. And it’s here among wattle and daub houses and brown hands crafting, Willa realizes that Spirit is her ancestors, beckoning her to claim her Cherokee heritage. For Willa to join a Nation over 400,000 strong.

Beautifully told, Spirit Shadow is a powerful tale about reclaiming culture and finding your way home. Lovingly illustrated by debut illustrator Mary Lupton, each spread is a feast for the eyes. Filled with nods to Cherokee beadwork and weaving as well as Cherokee syllabary, Willa’s story is suffused with love and tenderness. The book ends with a moving conclusion for children everywhere to embrace their own ancestors.

Back matter includes a note about Diligwa and the Cherokee Nation.

The euphonious text has a gentle, storytelling tone, and the bright digital illustrations highlight important symbols and practices of the Cherokee people. . . . For Cherokee readers it is a welcome representation of their culture and will give them something to connect to and share with their families.
—School Library Journal

The richly detailed illustrations support the emotional depth of the story, visually reinforcing the bond between Willa, her spirit shadow, and her ancestors. . . . This thoughtful, affirming book is a solid addition to any library seeking meaningful stories from Indigenous perspectives.
—Booklist

The story offers a powerful message about embracing one’s heritage, as well as a heartwarming takeaway about our interconnectedness and shared histories woven together through time. . . . This memorable and visually dynamic narrative will also serve as a strong starting place for those eager to discover more about Cherokee history.
—Kirkus Reviews

ISBN9780823453108

Published onMar 17, 2026

Published byHoliday House

Pages32

Dimensions8 x 10

Age Range4-8 years

GradePreschool – 3

Spirit Shadow

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By Ginger RenoIllustrated by Mary Lupton

Age Range: 4-8 years

Book Description