Weshoyot Alvitre’s Brave: Reading and Book Signing

Join us for a special reading and talk with author-illustrator Weshoyot Alvitre, featuring her heartfelt picture book Brave. The story follows a Native American boy proudly growing out his hair and learning from his family that braids are powerful, beautiful, and deeply meaningful. Told through a tender father–son relationship, Brave explores the painful legacy of colonization—when Native children were forced to cut their hair and abandon their cultural practices—and affirms Indigenous pride and history. Each morning, a father gently brushes and braids his son’s hair. Despite teasing at school and the discomfort of hair tugging, the boy draws strength from family stories and traditions, ultimately finding that his long hair makes him feel brave. The event will begin with a talk by Alvitre on the historical context and creative process behind the book; it will be followed by a live reading of Brave and discussion in the courtyard. We will end with a reception and book signing.