Sequoyah and the Written Word

Sequoyah and the Written Word is an English nonfiction reader designed for students in Grades K–3. This inspiring biography introduces Sequoyah, the Cherokee hero who invented a written system for the Cherokee language, enabling his people to read and write in their native tongue. Through high-interest informational text, full-color illustrations, and primary source documents, readers will see how Sequoyah’s perseverance and innovation transformed his culture. Teachers and parents can use this book in social studies, reading groups, or language units to spark curiosity about writing systems and cultural heritage.

• Chronicles Sequoyah’s journey to develop the Cherokee syllabary and its impact
• Highlights themes of perseverance, innovation, and cultural pride
• Integrates primary sources, maps, and period images to enrich content
• Builds literacy and social studies skills tied to biography and state studies
• Useful for guided reading, historical writing prompts, research projects, and class discussion