The research of Dr. Kayla Lewis has been selected for the 2023 issue of Mind’s Eye, a Missouri State University research publication. Lewis is an associate professor of literacy.
Her research delves into how children’s books can help combat misinformation and educate the youth about Native American heritage.
The following is an excerpt from the story:
The lack of proper education about native heritage contributes to racism and reinforces stereotypes.
“Children’s books can help combat these issues by providing an outlet for teachers to honor, support and teach native heritage,” Lewis said.
“They can also help preserve endangered indigenous languages.”
She partnered with her former professor and longtime friend, Dr. Sarah Nixon, another MSU literacy professor. Together, they curated a collection of books for teachers to use in their curriculum.
The duo evaluated 95 children’s books from their personal and local libraries. The books were fiction or non-fiction written by or about Native Americans.