Everything You Wanted to Know About Indians But Were Afraid to Ask: Young Readers' Edition

janicedesroches
Dec 23, 2025
2 min read

At Chapters4Change, we believe growth begins with courageous learning and reconciliation begins with listening. Everything You Wanted to Know About Indians But Were Afraid to Ask (Young Readers Edition) by Ojibwe author, educator, and scholar Anton Treuer offers young readers a powerful entry point into both.

Written in a clear, accessible question-and-answer format, this book invites young people to engage honestly with questions many are curious about but unsure how, or where, to ask. Treuer addresses topics ranging from terminology and history to powwows, politics, representation, and identity, always grounding his responses in lived experience, research, and respect for Indigenous diversity. Importantly, he emphasizes that there is no single Indigenous story, challenging stereotypes while honouring complexity.

What makes this book especially valuable for growth and reconciliation is its emphasis on responsibility and relationship. The concluding section, “Finding Ways to Make a Difference,” moves readers beyond awareness toward action, reminding non-Indigenous readers that meaningful allyship begins by following the leadership and priorities of Indigenous communities themselves.

For young adults, this text works beautifully both as an individual learning resource and as a foundation for guided conversations in classrooms, book clubs, or community learning circles. Its thoughtful prompts naturally encourage reflection, dialogue, and the kind of critical thinking that supports transformative learning and leadership.

Treuer also situates Indigenous activism within broader struggles for social justice, helping young readers see connections between Indigenous rights, anti-racism movements, and collective action. This framing reinforces that reconciliation is not symbolic; it is lived, ongoing, and relational.

We recommend this essential young readers’ edition for educators, librarians, families, and especially young adults who are ready to learn, unlearn, and grow. It is a book that informs, challenges, and affirms, supporting both non-Indigenous learners and Indigenous youth seeking to see their experiences reflected with honesty and respect.

A meaningful companion for anyone committed to walking the path of growth and reconciliation.

Visit Anton Treuer's Website: https://antontreuer.com/

Educator Guides:

Created by the Minnesota Department of Education

Created by Anjanette Parisien. Designed by Suet Chong.