Frozen River (nîkwatin sîpiy)

Synopsis:

Exploring reconciliation and connection through a story that spans seven generations, Frozen River (nîkwatin sîpiy) tells the story of two eleven-year-olds through the eyes of Grandmother Moon. Eilidh and Wâpam are born under the same blood moon, but Eilidh was born in Scotland and Wâpam in Kihci-Manito kâ ayapit, now known as Manitoba. After sailing across the ocean in hopes of a more prosperous life, Eilidh meets Wâpam deep in the forest, and the two become instant friends. Coming from vastly different worlds, Eilidh and Wâpam decide to teach each other about their ways of life. But when a sacred promise between them is broken, the relationship among cultures becomes jeopardized for generations to come.

Frozen River (nîkwatin sîpiy) shows audiences that an openness to learn from those who have protected and honoured the waterways for centuries can lead to healing and reconciliation.

Awards

• 2021 Sharon Enkin Plays for Young People Award winner

Reviews
"The show’s script cleverly makes important issues digestible for young audiences."— Van City Vince

"Frozen River (nîkwatin sîpiy) is a three-act play that explores colonization and reconciliation over seven generations through the friendship story of two eleven-year-old girls, one Swampy Cree and one Scottish, who are born under the same blood moon. The play is narrated by Grandmother Moon, who follows their friendship and that of their descendants. This is an exploration of the differences between their cultures, the openness and understanding that are needed to truly understand and appreciate those differences, and the importance of mending broken promises. Throughout the play, many cultural practices and traditions of the Swampy Cree are shared, as well as their language. The book includes a set of language notes for readers that provide both definitions and phonetic pronunciations." - Anna A., High School Teacher & Indigenous Education Teacher Mentor, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 8 to 14 by the publisher.

This resource is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for Grades 10 to 12 for Drama, English Language Arts, and Social Studies.

Additional Information
88 pages | 5.37" x 8.38" | Paperback