Too Much - by Laurel Goodluck (Hardcover)

About the Book

When Russell tries to share exciting news with his large, Native family, he struggles with being heard, but after he ventures out on his own he realizes how much he loves his family.

Book Synopsis

A little boy wants a chance to shine on his own but discovers that being apart from his large and lively Native family isn't necessarily better in this heartwarming and humorous picture book.

When Russell gets a part in the school play, he lights up like a shining star--and he can't wait to tell his big, boisterous Native family the exciting news. But catching their attention when they all get together feels impossible; no matter where they go, they seem to be too noisy, too many, and just too much!

Russell decides to keep his big debut to himself and fly solo for once...but being alone may not be the answer. After all, there's no such thing as too much love, and when he needs them most, his great big family knows how to be just enough.

Review Quotes

"An important showcase for a contemporary ­Native American protagonist struggling to be seen and heard by his large family."--School Library Journal "11/1/23"

"The cultural significance of large family structures in Native communities is on loving display in this picture book. A tender, slightly chaotic tribute to extended Native families."--Kirkus Reviews "12/1/23"

About the Author

Award-winning author Laurel Goodluck writes picture books with modern themes that reflect Native children's cultural experiences and everyday life, showing they have a unique and powerful perspective. Her books include Forever Cousins, Rock Your Mocs, She Persisted: Deb Haaland, Too Much, Yáadilá!: Good Grief!, and Fierce Aunties!. Laurel was raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. She comes from an intertribal background; is an enrolled member of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation; and is an Alaskan Native Citizen of the Tsimshian Tribe. She received a BA in psychology and an MA in community counseling and family studies from the University of New Mexico. Laurel began writing by crafting a curriculum for community advocacy involving Native teen leadership and later for children newly diagnosed with mental health challenges. Laurel lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with her Navajo husband, where they raised two sons who are also bent on storytelling. Please follow her on @LaurieGoodluck on Instagram.

Bridget George (Nimkiinagwaagankwe) is an Anishinaabe illustrator from Kettle and Stony Point First Nation. She was born and raised on the shores of Lake Huron--the traditional territory of her people. She currently makes her home with her son Noah and husband David in London, Ontario. Bridget's author-illustrator debut It's a Mitig! garnered the prestigious Periodical Marketers of Canada's Indigenous Literature Award. She has also illustrated Autumn Peltier, Water Warrior by Carole Lindstrom and Too Much by Laurel Goodluck.