We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga
by Traci Sorell
Charlesbridge Publishing 2018
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- gratitude
- family
- community
- cultural traditions
- identity and belonging
- seasons and celebrations
- language and heritage
- respect for nature
About this book
Told by an enrolled citizen of the Cherokee Nation, this picture book follows a Cherokee community through the four seasons, showing the many ways they express gratitude—otsaliheliga. Readers see contemporary Native life in celebrations, family gatherings, traditions, and everyday moments. With vibrant art and Cherokee words woven throughout, it’s perfect for sharing aloud and starting conversations about thankfulness and culture. Young readers enjoy the rhythmic text, rich details, and the inviting look at real-life community experiences.
Setting: Present-day Cherokee Nation in Oklahoma across the four seasons
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga right for my child?
Yes — We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.6, which is typical for 3rd grade. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 5–9 (K–3rd grade). Themes include gratitude, family, community.
How long does it take to read We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga takes around 7m to finish. The book has 900 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga have an AR quiz?
Yes — We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga?
We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga has an AR reading level of 3.6, which places it at a 3rd grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.