WE ARE GRATEFUL: OTSALIHELIGA

The sounds of crickets, a crackling campfire, and music greet listeners as five narrators share the meaning of the term “otsaliheliga,” a Cherokee word meaning “We are grateful.” Each narrator lends a unique voice to the story, complementing the diverse contemporary Cherokee families who are depicted celebrating every season. Cherokee pronunciations are beautifully delivered to help listeners understand the language, while sounds of the forest and the community create ambiance. Listening with the picture book is the ideal way to appreciate this charming and important work with themes of being thankful, honoring family and ancestors, and coming together for celebrations. To give broader context, Traci Sorell narrates additional vocabulary and an author’s note in a bright voice, and for further learning, Agalisiga Mackey clearly delivers the Cherokee syllabary. E.E.C. Winner of AudioFIle Earphones Award, 2019 Best Audiobook, 2020 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2019]