Underrepresented voice: Ria Thundercloud is a professional dancer and choreographer from the Ho-chunk nation in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, and Pueblo of Sandia just north of Albuquerque, New Mexico.



Autobiographical story: This picture book tells the true story of Ria’s experiences growing up and learning to dance, along with what it means to her. 



Striking, unique visuals: This is Kalila Fuller’s first picture book, and her stunning illustrations ensure it likely won’t be her last. Her artwork incorporates color and movement through a graphic style that feels fresh yet commercial.   

Ria Thundercloud (she/her) is from the Ho-Chunk Nation and Sandia Pueblo. She holds strong ties to her kinship in the Southwest and North, practicing both styles of traditional dance. She started training in classical dance at the age of thirteen, went professional at sixteen, and has traveled internationally as a cultural ambassador and professional dancer. Ria is a 2019 graduate from the Institute of American Indian Arts in Indigenous Liberal Studies and is a holistic yoga teacher from the Healing Lotus Center. Her art is influenced by the women who came before her, reclaiming stories of matriarchs that highlight the resilience and knowledge of Indigenous women.

Kalila J. Fuller (she/her) was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, where she continues to draw inspiration from her childhood amongst the fir trees. She graduated from the Pacific Northwest College of Art with a degree in illustration. She loves dogs, watching cartoons, and drinking chai lattes.

Illustrator Hometown: Portland, Oregon

A School Library Journal Best Nonfiction Book of the Year!

★ “A warmly illustrated memoir of dance and culture, this will have broad appeal about using art for expression and to overcome difficulties.” —School Library Journal, starred review

“A moving picture book about the resilience one can find in one’s cultural inheritance.” —Kirkus Reviews

“An inspiring story about following one’s passion.” —Booklist

“In a heartfelt, personal-feeling narrative, Thundercloud encapsulates many Indigenous traditions…” —Publishers Weekly