At the not-so-tender age of 8, Aslan arrived in North Dakota to help stop a pipeline. A few months later he returned — and saw the whole world watching. Read about his inspiring experiences in the Oceti Sakowin Camp at Standing Rock. Learn about what exactly happened there, and why. Be inspired by Aslan’s story of the daily life of Standing Rock’s young water protectors. Mni Wiconi … Water is Life. Ages 3–8.
About The Author
Aslan is a member of our tribe and we are proud of this young writer and his activism. In his book, Young Water Protectors: A Story About Standing Rock, Aslan talks about his experience in 2016 at Standing Rock during the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe’s #NODALP protest against building the Dakota Access Pipeline under the tribe’s primary source of drinking water, the Missouri River and Lake Oahe, and through sacred burial grounds. Aslan has packed much information into this children’s book. With great pride, we highly recommend Young Water Protectors: A Story About Standing Rock.
Read Aloud Tips
- Before introducing this book, chose another that portrays the importance of water to the Native American culture.
- Watch or read a news story about the events at Standing Rock.
- Use the debate centers to discuss and reflect on important issues brought up in the book.
- This story was about a young boy defending what is important to his culture and family. Ask students to write an essay, or a picture book, about a time they wanted to stand up for their family and community. It could be real or imagined.