Daniel W. Vandever believes in the power of children's books. "I think children's books are for everybody.
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They lead to a space where conversations can be had and discussions can take place, which builds empathetic, well-rounded individuals," Vandever said. That's what Vandever, who is Navajo, was shooting for while writing Herizon. Published in 2021, the picture book follows a Diné girl as she retrieves her grandmother’s sheep with the help of a magical scarf — a storyline inspired by Vandever's own grandmother, who was a rancher.
Herizon is a "true picture book," said Lori Thornton, Public Services Bureau chief for the New Mexico State Library. It's story is told through colorful illustrations by Navajo artist Corey Begay rather than text, allowing readers' imaginations to roam through the sweeping landscapes of the Navajo Nation and the Four Corners region. Vandever's book will represent New Mexico at the National Book Festival later this month, alongside the state's adult literature pick, A Bad Day for Sunshine by Darynda Jones.
Both books are now listed on the Library of Congress' “Discover Great Places Through Reading” list for 2024. Vandever, who was born and raised near Grants, said he sees the story's selection as an opportunity to share a piece of New Mexico and the Navajo Nation with a wider audience. "I'm hoping to help share the beauty of our region, our state, our land, our people," he said.
Each year, New Mexico State Library staff is tasked with .