Daniel W. Vandever’s Navajo heritage informs much of his work. His latest picture book, We Weave, with illustrations by Deonoveigh Mitchell, follows a Navajo child whose school switches to virtual learning. In order to afford a computer, the boy’s grandmother weaves a rug for him; the boy must then harness the power of social media to sell it. The book was selected as one of Kirkus’ best indie books of 2024; Vandever answered our questions via email.

What was the original idea that started you working on the book?

I wanted to write a book about technology after seeing my 2-year-old son intuitively navigate my phone to access its camera. Our youth are being raised with the world at their fingertips, and I felt it necessary to have a resource for parents, educators, and caregivers to talk about the positive and negative aspects of technology. Technology and traditional ways, such as Navajo weaving, are often characterized as conflicting. I wanted to tell a story where they existed in harmony, almost complementing one another. In my opinion, the world needs more balance.

The love between the child and his grandmother is so palpable—did you draw from personal experience?

I was fortunate to have two amazing grandmothers who shaped who I am today, and the book definitely reflects personal moments I shared with each. Family and intergenerational strength are at the heart of Navajo culture, which Deonoveigh captured perfectly in her illustrations. The strength of the grandson and grandmother’s relationship is why Native people are still here today carrying forth our language, customs, and traditions. It’s why we exist and what made the grandson and grandmother’s love so palpable.

What inspired you during the writing of the book?

My children, nieces, and nephews always inspire my books. It’s my hope that the more I write, the more stories they’ll have to relate and share with others. Native Americans have traditionally been omitted and/or misrepresented in books, so it’s my mission to correct that history and tell stories that reflect the beauty of our culture and heritage. Having more books that reflect people who look like us helps improve literacy, which is desperately needed in our communities. Working toward a better future for the next generation inspires everything I do and was the main thing on my mind when writing We Weave.

Where and when did you write the book?

My writing process is like making a pot of stew. You have variations of ideas that you throw into a pot, which you let simmer until the conditions are right. The ideas come in at different times and in different places, but they help shape the character of the book. I was on a walking trail in Tucson, Arizona, when each idea came together for We Weave. My son and I have made it a habit to walk each morning, which gives me time to think, plan, and reflect. More often than not, my ideas come together when I’m in nature and around family. It’s how We Weave came to be.

What was most challenging about writing this book? And most rewarding?

I aim to create books that have layered meaning and relevance, so they have value in the home, school, and community. Naturally I’d like my books to have a good story that addresses literacy, but I think it’s equally important to promote creativity in our youth and encourage them to ask questions. It’s my hope that readers interact with my books in such a way that they see or learn something new every time they read the story. When done right, the process can be rewarding, but it’s very challenging to achieve—especially when dealing with culturally sensitive topics and histories.

Mahnaz Dar is a young readers’ editor.