Indigenous Storytelling Novel Sets
The Spirit of Denendeh, Vol. 1: A Blanket of Butterflies by
No one knows how a suit of samurai armour ended up in the Fort Smith museum. When a mysterious stranger turns up to claim it, Sonny, a young Tłı̨chǫ Dene boy, is eager to help. Shinobu has travelled to Fort Smith, NWT, to reclaim his grandfather's samurai sword and armour. But when he discovers that the sword was lost in a poker game, he must confront the man known as Benny the Bank. Along the way, Shinobu must rely on unlikely heroes--Sonny, his grandmother, and a visitor from the spirit world. Together, they face Benny and his men, including the giant they call Flinch. Will Shinobu be able to regain the lost sword and, with it, his family's honour? Can Sonny and his grandmother help Shinobu while keeping the peace in their community? Now in full colour, this new edition includes additional background information and cultural context. Learn about the real-life inspiration behind the story and the intersections between Indigenous and Japanese Canadian experiences during the Second World War.
ISBN: 9781774920404Publication Date: 2022-09-06
The Spirit of Denendeh, Vol. 2: As I Enfold You in Petals by
Newly sober, Curtis searches for healing in the ancient cultural practices of his Tłıcho Dene grandfather. But will the Little People answer his call? Curtis has returned to Fort Smith, six weeks sober. He doesn't have any sober friends, his mom's still drinking, and his best friend (and secret crush) Lacey probably is too. Still, he's determined to abstain from alcohol and help his people. Along the way, he might just be able to help himself. Louis, Curtis's late grandfather, was a healer. Legend has it, Louis made a deal with the Little People that gave him the power to heal. No one has heard from the Little People since Louis's death, but his cabin may hold the key for them to return. There's only one problem: Benny the Bank stands in the way. An infamous bootlegger, Benny has profited off Fort Smith's pain for decades. After being critically wounded in an attempt on his life, Benny knows he doesn't have much time before the poison in his blood takes him. He also happens to own Louis's cabin. Can Curtis convince Benny to return the home that once belonged to Louis? Will the Little People answer Curtis's call? And can Benny find a way to make amends and leave a legacy he can be proud of? A stunning, fast-paced graphic novel, As I Enfold You in Petals will keep readers riveted until the last page.
ISBN: 9781774920411Publication Date: 2023-04-25
This Place by
Explore the past 150 years through the eyes of Indigenous creators in this groundbreaking graphic novel anthology. Beautifully illustrated, these stories are an emotional and enlightening journey through Indigenous wonderworks, psychic battles, and time travel. See how Indigenous peoples have survived a post-apocalyptic world since Contact. This is one of the 200 exceptional projects funded through the Canada Council for the Arts' New Chapter initiative. With this $35M initiative, the Council supports the creation and sharing of the arts in communities across Canada.
ISBN: 9781553797586Publication Date: 2019-04-30
Son of a Trickster by
Everyone knows a guy like Jared: the burnout kid in high school who sells weed cookies and has a scary mom who's often wasted and wielding some kind of weapon. Jared does smoke and drink too much, and he does make the best cookies in town, and his mom is a mess, but he's also a kid who has an immense capacity for compassion and an impulse to watch over people more than twice his age, and he can't rely on anyone for consistent love and support, except for his flatulent pit bull, Baby Killer (he calls her Baby)—and now she's dead. Jared can't count on his mom to stay sober and stick around to take care of him. He can't rely on his dad to pay the bills and support his new wife and step-daughter. Jared is only sixteen but feels like he is the one who must stabilize his family's life, even look out for his elderly neighbours. But he struggles to keep everything afloat... and sometimes he blacks out. And he puzzles over why his maternal grandmother has never liked him, why she says he's the son of a trickster, that he isn't human. Mind you, ravens speak to him—even when he's not stoned. You think you know Jared, but you don't.
ISBN: 9780345810793Publication Date: 2018-03-13
The Truth about Stories by
Winner of the 2003 Trillium Book Award "Stories are wondrous things," award-winning author and scholar Thomas King declares in his 2003 CBC Massey Lectures. "And they are dangerous." Beginning with a traditional Native oral story, King weaves his way through literature and history, religion and politics, popular culture and social protest, gracefully elucidating North America's relationship with its Native peoples. Native culture has deep ties to storytelling, and yet no other North American culture has been the subject of more erroneous stories. The Indian of fact, as King says, bears little resemblance to the literary Indian, the dying Indian, the construct so powerfully and often destructively projected by White North America. With keen perception and wit, King illustrates that stories are the key to, and only hope for, human understanding. He compels us to listen well.
ISBN: 9780887846960Publication Date: 2003-01-01
Courage is a Lifelong Journey: Featuring Salmon Run by Clayton Gauthier: Grade K-3
This kit will connect student understanding that courage has many faces and is reflected in nature as nature is reflected in ourselves. The Salmon Run by Clayton Gauthier is 12 phrases long and provides an opportunity to build understanding, connection, and identity with thought-provoking strategies. The story is also told in Dakelh and was translated to honor the Carrier people and the salmon. "We all see and feel the world with our own hearts and minds, no one's heart and mind are better or smarter... we all have lessons and blessings to bring to this world" "We share this place with all things." (Clayton Gauthier) This kit answers the Truth and Reconciliation Call to Action 62.i "Make age-appropriate curriculum on residential school, Treaties, and Aboriginal people's historical and contemporary contributions to Canada a mandatory education requirement for Kindergarten to Grade Twelve students." All books in this kit are Authentic Indigenous Voices. A comprehensive lesson is included in the kit with extended adaptations of the lesson.
Suitability: Grade K, 1, 2, 3.
Subjects: Science, Social Awareness and Responsibility, Positive Personal and Cultural Identity, Personal Awareness and Responsibility, Core Competencies.
17 books (including 6 copies of The Salmon Run), 1 "Indigenous Voices: Courage" teacher's guide, 1 "First peoples principles of learning" poster.
Ceepee and the Fish Camp by
Ceepee and the Fish Camp tells the story of Ceepee, a young Lheidli girl, and her family as they travel around their territory gathering food and resources through the seasons. This work incorporates Dakelh vocabulary words from Lheidli Elder Edith Frederick.
ISBN: 9780994073310Publication Date: 2021-01-01
Courage by
Bernard Waber, creator of the beloved Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile, explores many different kinds of courage in this look at the moments, big and small, that bring out bravery in each of us. There are many kinds of courage. Awesome kinds. And everyday kinds. Highlighting both the big and seemingly small actions of ordinary people--like being the first to make up after an argument or going to bed without a nightlight--Courage is the perfect read for anyone who needs a boost of confidence. With gentleness and humor, Bernard Waber presents an ideal read for milestones like graduation or starting school, or for gently responding to world events that feel overwhelming or scary. In moments that require resilience and compassion, Courage is an empowering balm for the spirit.
ISBN: 9780618238552Publication Date: 2002-10-28
A Dance Through the Seasons by
Readers of all ages will admire Young Woman as she endures and learns from each of the four seasons. Like Young Woman, we all have something to learn when we recognise and trust in our guides.
While the adults struggle with an important decision about the future of their community, Young Woman is gifted the solution in a dream. However, the adults don't recognise the wisdom in Young Woman. Discouraged, she begins a year-long journey towards self-discovery and resilience. With Turtle as her guide, they move through the seasons using traditional practices of the Dakelh (Carrier) people. A year later, Young Woman returns with more confidence than ever, but will the adults allow her to determine their future?
ISBN: 9781777894740Publication Date: 2021-12-01
Dipnetting with Dad by
BUMP, BUMP - SLAP, river sockeye salmon are pulled onto shore! Set in the beautiful landscape of the Cariboo Chilcotin region, DIPNETTING WITH DAD is a delightful and colourful story of a father teaching his son the Secwepemc method of fishing known as dipnetting. Together they visit the sweat lodge, mend the nets, select the best fishing spot and catch and pack their fish through rugged bush back to the family home for traditional preparation. In his first book, Williams Lake IndianBand member Willie Sellars captures family values, the importance of storytelling, community living and coming of age in one of BC's oldest cultures. Debut artist Kevin Easthope's contemporary and dynamic illustrations bring the characters to life as they jump off the page and pull you into their world.
ISBN: 9781927575536Publication Date: 2014-09-15
I Am Courage by
Encourage kids to find their inner strength with this companion to the New York Times bestsellers I Am Human and I Am Love! I move ahead one breath at a time. I act with bravery. I am courage. When we picture someone brave, we might think they're fearless; but real courage comes from feeling scared and facing what challenges us anyway. When our minds tell us "I can't," we can look inside ourselves and find the strength to say, "Yes, I CAN!" From Susan Verde and Peter H. Reynolds, the New York Times bestselling author-illustrator team behind the I Am series, comes a triumphant celebration of everyday courage: believing in ourselves, speaking out, trying new things, asking for help, and getting back up no matter how many times we may fall. Grounded in mindfulness and awareness, I Am Courage is an empowering reminder that we can conquer anything. Inside, you'll also find exercises to inspire confidence. Also available: I Am Human I Am Love I Am One I Am Me I Am Peace I Am Yoga
ISBN: 9781419746468Publication Date: 2021-09-07
Neekna and Chemai by
Neekna and Chemai are two little girls growing up in the Okanagan Valley in the time before European contact. Through these two friends, we learn about the seasonal life patterns of the Okanagan First Peoples. The girls spend time with Great-Grandmother, who tells them about important ceremonies, and they gather plants with Neekna's grandmother. Grandmother explains how bitterroot came to be an important food source, and why the people give a special ceremony of thanks at its harvest. Grandmother also tells the story of how a woman was changed to a rock to watch over the Okanagan Valley. Neekna understands how important it is that she has received the knowledge passed down for generations, from great-grandmother to grandmother to mother.
ISBN: 9781926886435Publication Date: 2019-05-28
The Salmon Run by
The Salmon Runfollows a salmon on his journey to return to the spawning grounds. Written and illuystrated by Clayton Gauthier, the debut book of talented artis and storyteller.
ISBN: 9781926886442Publication Date: 2016-11-01
Sometimes I Feel Like a Fox by
Children's love for animals and disguise come together in this award-winning introduction to the Anishinaabe tradition of totem animals. In this introduction to the Anishinaabe tradition of totem animals, young children explain why they identify with different creatures such as a deer, beaver or moose. Delightful illustrations show the children wearing masks representing their chosen animal, while the few lines of text on each page work as a series of simple poems throughout the book. In a brief author's note, Danielle Daniel explains the importance of totem animals in Anishinaabe culture and how they can also act as animal guides for young children seeking to understand themselves and others. Key Text Features author's note Correlates to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.K.7 With prompting and support, describe the relationship between illustrations and the story in which they appear (e.g., what moment in a story an illustration depicts). CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.4 Identify words and phrases in stories or poems that suggest feelings or appeal to the senses. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.4 Describe how words and phrases (e.g., regular beats, alliteration, rhymes, repeated lines) supply rhythm and meaning in a story, poem, or song. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.3.7 Explain how specific aspects of a text's illustrations contribute to what is conveyed by the words in a story (e.g., create mood, emphasize aspects of a character or setting) CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.4.2 Determine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details in the text; summarize the text. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.5.7 Analyze how visual and multimedia elements contribute to the meaning, tone, or beauty of a text (e.g., graphic novel, multimedia presentation of fiction, folktale, myth, poem).
ISBN: 9781773061177Publication Date: 2017-07-15
Sus Yoo / the Bear's Medicine by
A mother bear shares with her cubs how to be grateful for all they have in the natural world. The Bear's Medicineshows the interconnectedness of all things in the world they live in and how each season brings changes and blessings for the bears. It is a story of a mother's love for her children as she teaches them how to survive. Written in English and Dakelh.
ISBN: 9781926886572Publication Date: 2019-09-24
The Thing Lou Couldn't Do by
"Lou and her friends are BRAVE adventurers. They run FASTER than airplanes. They build MIGHTY fortresses. They rescue WILD animals." But one day, when they're looking for a ship to play pirates in, Lou's friend has an idea: "Up there! The tree can be our ship!" "Ummm ..." says Lou. This is something new. Lou has never climbed a tree before, and she's sure she can't do it. So she tries to convince her friends to play a not-up-a-tree game. When that doesn't work, she comes up with reasons for not joining them --- her arm is sore, her cat needs a walk, you shouldn't climb so soon after eating. Finally, she tells herself she doesn't want to climb the tree. But is that true, or is this brave adventurer just too afraid to try?This delightful picture book from Ashley Spires, bestselling author of The Most Magnificent Thing, perfectly depicts what children go through when confronted with something difficult. With humor and endearing artwork, Spires sensitively portrays Lou procrastinating, making excuses, imagining alternatives and denying she cares. Ultimately, Lou faces her fear, and although she fails, the effort empowers her, encouraging a growth mindset. All the while, Lou's friends model compassionate friendship by offering to teach her how to climb and then moving the game. This book makes a perfect choice for a character education discussion about courage or resilience, or a life-skills lesson on facing challenges. The story also promotes the joy of imaginative play in the outdoors.
ISBN: 9781771387279Publication Date: 2017-05-02
When I Was Eight by
Bestselling memoir Fatty Legs for younger readers. Olemaun is eight and knows a lot of things. But she does not know how to read. Ignoring her father's warnings, she travels far from her Arctic home to the outsiders' school to learn. The nuns at the school call her Margaret. They cut off her long hair and force her to do menial chores, but she remains undaunted. Her tenacity draws the attention of a black-cloaked nun who tries to break her spirit at every turn. But the young girl is more determined than ever to learn how to read. Based on the true story of Margaret Pokiak-Fenton, and complemented by stunning illustrations, When I Was Eight makes the bestselling Fatty Legs accessible to younger readers. Now they, too, can meet this remarkable girl who reminds us what power we hold when we can read.
ISBN: 9781554514908Publication Date: 2013-02-01
When We Were Alone by
Winner of the 2017 Governor General's Literary Award! A young girl notices things about her grandmother that make her curious. Why does her grandmother have long, braided hair and beautifully coloured clothing? Why does she speak Cree and spend so much time with her family? As the girl asks questions, her grandmother shares her experiences in a residential school, when all of these things were taken away. Also available in a bilingual Swampy Cree/English edition. Download the free teacher guide on the Portage & Main Press website.
ISBN: 9781553796732Publication Date: 2016-12-01
Indigenous Storytelling Books at DLC (Single Copies)
An Anthology of Canadian Native Literature in English by
This volume is a wide-ranging survey of writing in English by Canadian Native authors. Beginning with traditional songs and works by early Native writers such as Joseph Brant and John Brant-Sero, George Copway and Pauline Johnson, the anthology turns to a selection of short stories, plays, poems, and essays by contemporary writers drawn from a wide range of peoples and nations across Canada. The editors have also attempted to showcase a diversity of opinions, voices, and styles.
ISBN: 9780195420784Publication Date: 2005-01-01The Canoe He Called Loo Taas by Loo Taas is the amazing 50-foot canoe designed by legendary artist Bill Reid, and carved by members of the Haida community. Her name means "Wave Eater." This is the story of how she came to be through the eyes of the designer's daughter. This is the story of Loo Taas.
ISBN: 9780991678204Publication Date: 2010-04-01
The Enchanted Caribou by
Illustrated entirely with black-and-white shadow puppets, this tale recounts the enchantment of an Inuit maiden who is transformed into a white caribou and then back into a woman. When Elizabeth Cleaver discovered this old Inuit tale, she thought how well it was suited to shadow puppets since the shadow theatre is ideal for showing dreams, visions, and magical happenings like a human turning into an animal. She decided to retell the story and to create shadow puppets to illustrate each episode. This engaging book is the result In addition to a charming story and striking illustrations, the book includes instructions for making a shadow-puppet theatre to animate this and other stories.
ISBN: 9780195410747Publication Date: 1985-01-01
Our Story: Aboriginal Voices on Canada's Past by
Inspired by history, Our Story is a beautifully illustrated collection of original stories from some of Canada’s most celebrated Aboriginal writers.
Asked to explore seminal moments in Canadian history from an Aboriginal perspective, these ten acclaimed authors have travelled through our country’s past to discover the moments that shaped our nation and its people.
Drawing on their skills as gifted storytellers and the unique perspectives their heritage affords, the contributors to this collection offer wonderfully imaginative accounts of what it’s like to participate in history. From a tale of Viking raiders to a story set during the Oka crisis, the authors tackle a wide range of issues and events, taking us into the unknown, while also bringing the familiar into sharper focus.
Our Story brings together an impressive array of voices—Inuk, Cherokee, Ojibway, Cree, and Salish to name just a few—from across the country and across the spectrum of First Nations. These are the novelists, playwrights, journalists, activists, and artists whose work is both Aboriginal and uniquely Canadian.
Brought together to explore and articulate their peoples’ experience of our country’s shared history, these authors’ grace, insight, and humour help all Canadians understand the forces and experiences that have made us who we are.
ISBN: 9780385660761Publication Date: 2005-01-01
People of the Land: Legends of the Four Host First Nations by
The sacred legends of four First Nations--Lil'wat, Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh--have been passed down from generation to generation through the Elders and are integral to the teachings and Oral Traditions of First Nations peoples. These stories link people to the land and to each other, passing on Traditional Knowledge and history. For the first time, these sacred teachings are collected in an anthology of stories willingly shared by the respected storytellers of each nation and adorned with spectacular imagery and art. These legends--which range from creation stories to naming stories--add to our knowledge of ourselves and each other.
ISBN: 9781894778770Publication Date: 2009-12-22
Indigenous Picture Books 2023-2024: Grades K-12
Supplement your instruction with these new Indigenous focused picture books for 2023-2024. These releases can be used in many ways and threaded throughout the curriculum. From discussions around land, protocol and language to the rich lives of Indigenous people today, these books can enliven our lessons and bring new perspectives into your classroom.
Suitability: Grade K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12.
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies, Indigenous Studies.
7 books.
Autumn Peltier, Water Warrior by
From New York Times bestselling author Carole Lindstrom and illustrator Bridget George comes a must-read companion to the powerful, award-winning picture book We Are Water Protectors. Telling the story of reall-ife water protectors, Autumn Peltier, Water Warrior celebrates Autumn Peltier and her great-aunt Josephine Mandamin, two Indigenous Rights Activists inspiring a tidal wave of change. The seventh generation is creating A sea of change. It was a soft voice, at first. Like a ripple. But with practice it grew louder. Indigenous women have long cared for the land and water, which in turn sustains all life on Earth--honoring their ancestors and providing for generations to come. Yet there was a time when their voices and teachings were nearly drowned out, leaving entire communities and environments in danger and without clean water. But then came Anishinaabe elder Grandma Josephine and her great-niece, Autumn Peltier. Featuring a foreword from water advocate and Indigenous Rights Activist Autumn Peltier herself, this stunning picture book encourages young readers to walk in the footsteps of the water warriors before them.
ISBN: 9781250795274Publication Date: 2023-09-19
Benjamin's Thunderstorm by
Benjamin loves the rain. He loves splashing through puddles in his bright yellow rain boots and watching the colours of a rainbow in the water as they ripple around his feet. But most of all, Benjamin loves thunder. To him, thunder - piyesiwak - sounds like his grandfather's drum. It calls to him, like the songs his grandfather plays while his father and other powwow dancers spin and step in time to the drumbeat. As Benjamin hears the thunder rumble overhead, he imagines himself as a powwow dancer. He spins, he taps his feet and he lifts his knees. Faster and faster he twirls, delighted by and filled with the rhythm of piyesiwak. This artfully written story from award-winning author Melanie Florence celebrates both the universal joys of playing in the rain and the connections to family traditions that center and ground us. Elements of Cree powwow culture and Cree words for colours and weather are interwoven into the story, with a pronunciation guide in the back matter. The vibrant and eye-catching art by Hawlii Pichette, inspired by the scenery of northern Ontario, adds drama to the pages. This inviting picture book makes a perfect read-aloud for a rainy day, as well as an excellent introduction to Cree cultural traditions, local communities and experiencing nature firsthand.
ISBN: 9781525303203Publication Date: 2023-09-05
In Our Traditional Territory by
On the river, beaver smacks his tail, the salmon swim, and a family pull in the catch. As a member of her community, six-year-old Monica participates in the traditional salmon harvest among the picturesque scenery, cold mornings, warm fires, and extended family.
ISBN: 9781777894719Publication Date: 2022-12-30
It's Time for Berries! by
Two sisters have waited all spring and summer to pick berries with their ningiuq, their grandmother. They've gone fishing, dug for clams, and by the time late summer arrives, it's finally time for berries! Ninguiq and the girls head out to pick berries, rain or shine--nothing will stop Ningiuq! Through driving rain and early autumn snow the girls and Ningiuq pick as many sweet berries as their buckets can hold. The hard work is all worth it to enjoy the delicious treats Ninguiq creates with her berries.
ISBN: 9781772274653Publication Date: 2023-09-05
Mnoomin Maan'gowing / the Gift of Mnoomin by
In this bilingual book, an Anishinaabe child explores the story of a precious mnoomin seed and the circle of life mnoomin sustains. Written in Anishinaabemowin and English, the story opens at harvest time. A child holds a mnoomin seed and imagines all the life that made a single seed possible--Mayfly, Pike, Muskrat, Eagle and Moose, all had a part to play in bringing the seed into being. What will happen if the seed sprouts? Underwater leaves will shelter young fish, shoots will protect ducklings, stalks will feed larvae, in turn providing food for bats...until finally mnoomin will be ready to harvest again. We follow the child and family through a harvest day as they make offerings of tobacco, then gently knock ripe seeds into their canoe. On shore, they prepare the seeds, cook up a feast, and gratefully plant some seeds they'd set aside. This beautifully written and illustrated story reveals the cultural and ecological importance of mnoomin. As the author's note explains, many Anishinaabeg agree that "wild rice" is an inaccurate term for this plant relation, since part of the harvest is sown every year to help sustain human and non-human beings. Includes a translator's note. Key Text Features explanation illustrations informational note translations translator's note Correlates to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.2 Retell stories, including key details, and demonstrate understanding of their central message or lesson.
ISBN: 9781773068466Publication Date: 2023-10-03
Nutshimit: In the Woods by
In this immersive first-person account, Innu author Melissa Mollen Dupuis teams up with award-winning author and illustrator Elise Gravel to take readers on a journey through Innu culture, from creation legends to life today.
The Innu word Nutshimit signifies the physical and social space to practice traditional activities and language. Join author Melissa Mollen Dupuis on a guided walk deep through the forest to learn some of the rich culture of the Innu people. Readers will discover the importance of natural world and learn a few Innu words along the way. Thoughtfully brought to life by Elise Gravel’s signature comic style illustrations, Melissa’s colloquial narrative and anecdotes detailing her lived experiences offer a deeply personal look at Innu life.
ISBN: 9781039701809Publication Date: 2023-08-01
Walking Together by
This innovative picture book introduces readers to the concept of Etuaptmumk--or Two-Eyed Seeing, the gift of multiple perspectives in the Mi'kmaw language--as we follow a group of young children connecting to nature as their teacher. A poetic, joyful celebration of the Lands and Waters as spring unfolds: we watch for Robin's return, listen for Frog's croaking, and wonder at maple tree's gift of sap. Grounded in Etuaptmumk, also known as Two-Eyed Seeing--which braids together the strengths of Indigenous and non-Indigenous ways of knowing--and the Mi'kmaq concept of Netukulimk--meaning to protect Mother Earth for the ancestors, present, and future generations--Walking Together nurtures respectful, reciprocal, responsible relationships with the Land and Water, plant-life, animals and other-than-human beings for the benefit of all.
ISBN: 9781773217765Publication Date: 2023-05-02
Indigenous Graphic Novel Literature Circle Kit
This kit contains 7 different contemporary Indigenous graphic novels of roughly the same length, in a mix of realistic fiction, fantasy, action and science-fiction. Each book has 6 copies allowing for small group discussion. Estimated time for reading and discussion of these is 2-3 lessons. These can be utilized in a variety of courses that meet the Indigenous grad requirement. The professional book, from Faye Brownlie, provides an excellent introduction to how to run literature circles for those not familiar with the format. Teacher guides for the books are provided where available.
Suitability: Grade 10, 11, 12.
Subjects: English, English First Peoples.
42 graphic novels (7 titles with 6 copies each), 6 professional books.
Graphic novels:
Dreams, Vol. 1: Visions of the Crow by
"Your ancestors have called us to help you." "I think y'all have the wrong number." Damon Quinn just wants to get through his senior year unscathed. His mom struggles with alcohol and is barely coping with the day-to-day. Marcus and his cronies at school are forever causing Damon trouble. The new girl, Journey, won't mind her own business. To make matters worse, now a mysterious crow is following him everywhere. After he is seized by a waking dream in the middle of a busy street, Damon is forced to confront his mom with some hard questions: Why haven't I met my dad? Where did we come from? Who am I? Damon must look within himself, mend the bond with his mother, and rely on new friends to find the answers he so desperately needs. Travelling through time and space, Damon will have to go back before he can move forward.
ISBN: 9781774920459Publication Date: 2023-04-04
A Girl Called Echo, Vol. 1: Pemmican Wars by
Echo Desjardins, a 13-year-old Métis girl adjusting to a new home and school, is struggling with loneliness while separated from her mother. Then an ordinary day in Mr. Bee's history class turns extraordinary, and Echo's life will never be the same. During Mr. Bee's lecture, Echo finds herself transported to another time and place--a bison hunt on the Saskatchewan prairie--and back again to the present. In the following weeks, Echo slips back and forth in time. She visits a Métis camp, travels the old fur-trade routes, and experiences the perilous and bygone era of the Pemmican Wars. Pemmican Wars is the first graphic novel in a new series, A Girl Called Echo, by Governor General Award-winning writer, and author of Highwater Press' The Seven Teaching Stories, Katherena Vermette.
ISBN: 9781553796787Publication Date: 2018-03-01
The Reckoner Rises, Vol. 1: Breakdown by
After the events in Wounded Sky, Cole and Eva arrive in Winnipeg, the headquarters of Mihko Laboratories. They are intent on destroying the company once and for all, but their plans are thwarted when a new threat surfaces. When Cole becomes mired in terrifying visions, Eva must harness her newly discovered powers to investigate Mihko without him. Are Cole's visions just troubled dreams, or are they leading him to a horrible truth? Perfect for fans of superheroes, The Bloodhound Gang returns in this all-new graphic novel series, The Reckoner Rises.
ISBN: 9781553798903Publication Date: 2020-10-27- The Spirit of Denendeh, Vol. 1: A Blanket of Butterflies by
No one knows how a suit of samurai armour ended up in the Fort Smith museum. When a mysterious stranger turns up to claim it, Sonny, a young Tłı̨chǫ Dene boy, is eager to help. Shinobu has travelled to Fort Smith, NWT, to reclaim his grandfather's samurai sword and armour. But when he discovers that the sword was lost in a poker game, he must confront the man known as Benny the Bank. Along the way, Shinobu must rely on unlikely heroes--Sonny, his grandmother, and a visitor from the spirit world. Together, they face Benny and his men, including the giant they call Flinch. Will Shinobu be able to regain the lost sword and, with it, his family's honour? Can Sonny and his grandmother help Shinobu while keeping the peace in their community? Now in full colour, this new edition includes additional background information and cultural context. Learn about the real-life inspiration behind the story and the intersections between Indigenous and Japanese Canadian experiences during the Second World War.
ISBN: 9781774920404Publication Date: 2022-09-06
Sugar Falls by
BASED ON A TRUE STORY* A school assignment to interview a residential school survivor leads Daniel to Betsy, his friend's grandmother, who tells him her story. Abandoned as a young child, Betsy was soon adopted into a loving family. A few short years later, at the age of 8, everything changed. Betsy was taken away to a residential school. There she was forced to endure abuse and indignity, but Betsy recalled the words her father spoke to her at Sugar Falls -- words that gave her the resilience, strength, and determination to survive. Sugar Falls is based on the true story of Betty Ross, Elder from Cross Lake First Nation. We wish to acknowledge, with the utmost gratitude, Betty's generosity in sharing her story. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of Sugar Falls goes to support the bursary program for The Helen Betty Osborne Memorial Foundation.
ISBN: 9781553793342Publication Date: 2012-01-20
Surviving the City by
Miikwan and Dez are best friends. Miikwan is Anishinaabe; Dez is Inninew. Together, the teens navigate the challenges of growing up in an urban landscape--they're so close, they even completed their Berry Fast together. However, when Dez's grandmother becomes too sick, Dez is told she can't stay with her anymore. With the threat of a group home looming, Dez can't bring herself to go home and disappears. Miikwan is devastated, and the wound of her missing mother resurfaces. Will Dez's community find her before it's too late? Will Miikwan be able to cope if they don't?
ISBN: 9781553797562Publication Date: 2019-03-01
Three Feathers by
Three young men -- Flinch, Bryce, and Rupert -- have vandalized their community. They are sent by its Elders to live nine months on the land as part of the circle sentencing process. There, the young men learn to take responsibility for their actions and acquire the humility required to return home. But will they be forgiven for what they've done? Three Feathers explores the power and grace of restorative justice in one Northern Indigenous community and the cultural legacy that can empower future generations.
ISBN: 9781553795360Publication Date: 2015-03-02
Professional books:
English First Peoples: Grade 10-12 Teacher Resource Guide by
The FNESC/FNSA English First Peoples 10-12 Teacher Resource Guide (2018) is designed provide support for the British Columbia’s English First Peoples 10-12 curriculum. It includes diverse units, lessons and activities to support the revised EFP 10-12 and ELA 10-12 curriculum using dynamic, rich written, oral, visual, and digital First Peoples literature/text, and reflects evolving educational practice.
This guide amalgamates and replaces two previous FNESC resource guides: the English First Peoples 12 Teacher Resource Guide (2008) and the English First Peoples 10 and 11 Teacher Resource Guide (2010). It includes new material that reflects recent changes to the curriculum, more recently published First Peoples literature, and evolving educational practice.
Publication Date: 2018-01-01
Grand Conversations, Thoughtful Responses: A Unique Approach to Literature Circles by
Grand Conversations,Thoughtful Responses provides the key to helping your students become enthusiastic, confident readers. In the author's unique approach to Literature Circles, no roles are used and no limits are set on the amount students read. Students choose their books from an appropriate pre-arranged set, engage in meaningful conversations about their books with their peers, keep response journals, and work biweekly on a whole-class comprehension strategy. In this resource, you will find: steps for establishing Literature Circles in your classroom strategies and ideas for building purposeful discussion groups practical techniques that help students select books comprehensive book lists tips and criteria to help students write insightful personal responses suggestions for assessing and evaluating student work in Literature Circles
ISBN: 9781553790549Publication Date: 2005-01-01- Supplemental Materials for English First Peoples Teacher Resource Guide by Contents: English First Peoples Curriculum Grades 10-12; Indigenous-focused Graduation Requirement Q&A; EFP Grade 10-12 Teacher Resource Guide EditsPublication Date: 2023-01-01
Surviving the City Teacher Guide by
The Surviving the City Teacher Guide provides support for teachers addressing sensitive topics in the classroom (such as racism, caregiver illness, the child welfare system, residential schools, and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People) when reading the graphic novels in the Surviving the City series. This teacher guide is meant to be a no-prep resource for educators to use either for individual, stand-alone lessons, or as a complete unit plan. In this teacher guide, Students will be learning about, exploring, researching, and presenting on essential themes that arise in the graphic novel. The lesson plans are formatted using the Activate, Acquire, Apply, and Assess (AAAA) format for ease of use. Activities throughout the lessons infuse Indigenous pedagogical practice. This teacher guide is best suited for use in grades 9-12 classrooms such as Grades 9-12 English, Grade 12 Global Issues, and Grade 12 Current Topics in First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Studies.
ISBN: 9781553799047Publication Date: 2020-01-06
Teacher Guide for a Girl Called Echo by
The A Girl Called Echo series tells the story of Métis teenager Echo Desjardins, who is struggling to adjust to a new school and a new home. Readers follow Echo as she travels through time and experiences pivotal events from Métis history, gains new perspectives about where she came from, and imagines what the future might hold. Written by Anishinaabe educator Reuben Boulette, the Teacher Guide for A Girl Called Echo includes lesson plans specific to each book in the A Girl Called Echo series original articles outlining the history of the Métis Nation and their fight for sovereignty in-depth reading activities that engage students' critical thinking skills activities that introduce students to the critical study of graphic novels and sequential art This teacher guide will engage students' understanding of Métis history and culture and encourage reflection on the importance of learning Indigenous histories.
ISBN: 9781774920190Publication Date: 2022-05-17
Teacher Guide for Sugar Falls by
Sugar Falls is a story of strength, family, and culture that shares the awe-inspiring resilience of Elder Betty Ross. Taken away to a residential school, Betsy is forced to endure abuse and indignity, but her father's words give her the strength and determination to survive. Written by Anishinaabe educator Christine M'Lot, the Teacher Guide for Sugar Falls: A Residential School Story offers a diverse menu of activities that support teachers in planning lessons throughout the reading process, including before, during, and after reading Sugar Falls creating dynamic learning experiences for their students while maintaining a respectful and dignified approach to Indigenous topics enhancing students' prior knowledge about the topics addressed in the book using trauma-informed practices to prepare students for sensitive topics identifying cross-curricular connections and opportunities to collaborate with teachers in other subject areas infusing Indigenous pedagogical practices, such as working with others, seeking holism in understanding, and learning through storytelling engaging students' understanding and encouraging them to embrace differing worldviews facilitating activities for individual students, small groups, whole-class instruction and discussion, or even the whole school Sugar Falls: A Residential School Story includes sensitive topics (e.g., abuse, trauma); therefore, it is most appropriate for grades 9-12. The activities in this guide are suitable for courses such as English Language Arts, Social Studies, History, Global or Contemporary Issues, as well as Current Topics in First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Studies. They could be adapted for use at the university or college level.
ISBN: 9781774920107Publication Date: 2021-08-27
