Too Much: My Great Big Native Family

Gr 1-3--A well-meaning effort to elucidate the emotional truths of being one of many in a visually specific and narratively undeveloped book about an extended Native American family. Russell lands a role in his school's play and feels overwhelmed and unseen in the mix of busy suburban family life in the West. An episodic narrative comes off as somewhat disjointed, in spite of George's digital illustrations working hard to nurture readers' capacity for viewing Russell in the context of his family's love and togetherness. The art uses hues of blue to connect the realm of the ancestors with the deep sea and the night sky as obstacle after obstacle prevents Russell from telling his family about his big moment. On the night of the show, he is alone, without anyone in the audience. Here the story shines: Russell takes decisive action to articulate his request for his family's presence for the last half of his performance. It's realistic as well as rewarding for readers, quietly making the point that discerning one's feelings and speaking up is the way to get one's needs met. Russell feels satisfied, seen, and supported as well as surrounded by love when his family shows up to cheer him on. An author's note explains Goodluck's upbringing as Mandan and Hidatsa (her mother) and Tsimshian (her father) and how important the modern extended family is. VERDICT Narrative challenges and an underdeveloped main character undercut an important showcase for a contemporary Native American protagonist struggling to be seen and heard by his large family.--Jessica Fenster-Sparber

A tender, slightly chaotic tribute to extended Native families.