Tanya Simmons Patterson
Chooch & Pokey Adventures
Chooch is a spirited Cherokee boy with a big heart and an even bigger imagination. But when a rough morning at home spills into a tough day at school, Chooch forgets what it means to “Be a Hornet.” Guided by the wisdom of his Grandpa Eduda and the support of his teacher Miss Quinn, Chooch learns how to take responsibility, make things right, and choose kindness—even when it’s hard.
This heartwarming story blends Cherokee values with everyday school life, encouraging young readers to practice respect, empathy, and accountability. With vibrant illustrations and a relatable message, Be a Hornet is perfect for classrooms, families, and communities working to raise thoughtful, courageous children.
Watercress for Pokey is a heartwarming, intergenerational Cherokee story about family, tradition, and discovery set during a lively day at the Watercress Fest. Young Pokey, known for her girly personality and signature purple skirt, wakes up excited to attend the festival with her grandparents, Elisi and Eduda, and her big brother, Chooch.
From spring-fed creeks and Cherokee stickball to handmade quilts, beadwork booths, and the unexpected delight of watercress soup, the story takes readers on an immersive journey through Cherokee culture. As Pokey plays, explores, and even gets a little muddy chasing frogs, her curiosity grows — and so does her understanding of her heritage.
Guided gently by her wise and nurturing grandparents, Pokey and Chooch learn more than just crafts or games — they discover that traditions, language, and community are the roots that ground them. Even as the storm rolls in and they dash back to the truck laughing and soaked, the warmth of family and culture stays with them.
This story celebrates the joy of learning, the strength of Cherokee identity, and the beautiful passing down of traditions from one generation to the next.
Edudi’s Sweet Journey follows the heartwarming transformation of Edudi, a proud Cherokee grandfather whose health has begun to falter under the weight of time and old habits. When his doctor gently warns him about the toll of too many frybread treats, Edudi finds himself at a crossroads: will he give up the foods he loves, or discover a path that honors both his body and his heritage?
Gathering his family around the dinner table, Edudi shares the ancient Cherokee tale of The Corn Spirit—how the people once took their bounty for granted, only to learn again the power of gratitude and care. Inspired by his granddaughter Pokey and grandson Chooch’s promise to help “weed the fields” of his life, Edudi recommits himself to daily practices of nourishment and thanksgiving. Together, they dip toes in cool mountain streams, hike misty pine-scented trails, and roast vegetables over a crackling campfire, rediscovering joy in movement, fresh food, and each other’s company.
By book’s end, Edudi stands before Dr. Raincloud with renewed resolve—not to deny himself the simple pleasures of frybread, but to savor them mindfully, in balance with a life rooted in Cherokee wisdom, family love, and The Creator’s blessings.
When Chooch and Pokey help a small turtle cross the road, Elisi (grandmother) turns the moment into a lesson that travels through time. She shares an old Cherokee story: how Turtle’s shell was mended with purpose—thirteen spaces for the moons of the year and twenty-eight marks around for the days in each moon.
Back home, the family readies for Green Corn Day—the “extra day” that reminds us to clean our homes, clear our hearts, and begin again. With simple acts of apology, gratitude, and a shared meal, Chooch and Pokey learn that patience, purpose, and forgiveness make any journey stronger.
Blending everyday adventure with cultural teaching, The Story of the Turtle Calendar (Chooch Series: Book 4) invites readers to slow down, notice, and help—just like Turtle. Gentle, realistic illustrations and warm family dialogue make this a perfect read-aloud for classrooms and homes.
When Chooch wakes from a frightening dream, he struggles with whether to admit his fears. As the big brother, he wants to appear strong—but with Pokey’s encouragement and Edudi’s wisdom, he discovers a lesson far greater than courage alone. On a warm summer evening, under the glow of fireflies, Edudi and Elisi introduce Chooch and Pokey to the dream catcher—a woven web that protects the heart by holding back bad dreams and letting good ones pass through.
Though dream catchers are not originally Cherokee, they are an important part of Native American culture and have become a powerful symbol of comfort, hope, and protection. Through this tender story, children learn that bravery doesn’t mean hiding fear, but weaving love, kindness, and respect into every day—and every dream.
The story of Chooch’s Dreams was inspired by the tender moments we all face when fears visit us in the quiet of the night. While dream catchers are not part of traditional Cherokee culture, they are an important gift shared by other Native nations, especially the Ojibwe people. Today, dream catchers have become a cherished symbol across Native communities, reminding us that hope and love can be woven into every thread of our lives.
As a Cherokee author, it is my hope that this book helps children find comfort in their dreams, courage in their hearts, and strength in the stories and traditions that surround them. May we always honor where each teaching comes from, while weaving them into lessons that guide our children with kindness and respect.