A Goodreads user
A Goodreads user asked Kyla Stan:

While I appreciate your vision, the cover of your book, "Poet Tongue" disappoints me. Was it necessary to feature a fair skinned, blue eyed woman wearing a tribal headdress? Are we resigned to forever be historical characters, mascots and costumes? This makes me sad. :(

Kyla Stan Hi Sarah,

Thank you for your question. As a Latino woman, who is often "judged" because she isn't dark enough, I would say it's also offensive to consider someone not "native enough" because of the color of their skin. There are plenty of people, including myself, who have native blood, but their skin color also reveals otherwise. Everyone comes in a variety of colors with different backgrounds, and it's important to respect those differences.

Regarding the headdress, all I can say is it's revealed later in the novel, but I cannot give away any spoilers. My cover has been liked my several diversity groups, including a Native publication on Instagram. I was also nominated for the In The Margins award, a highly respected committee that celebrates diversity.

I hope this answers your question!

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more