The Animal People Choose a Leader

Synopsis:

Accompanied by award-winning illustrator Bridget George’s luminous artwork, this tradition-steeped story from renowned author Richard Wagamese meditates on the unifying powers of wisdom, kindness and respect with all the visionary clarity of our most essential legends.

The unmistakable voice of revered Ojibway author Richard Wagamese returns with this moving tale, beautifully illustrated by original work from Anishinaabe artist Bridget George.

The story unfolds in a “Long Ago Time” when animals of all kinds share a common language and gather to solemnly consider which of them should be their leader. After hearing boasts about the qualities of the candidates—Horse’s fleetness, Buffalo’s stamina, Cougar’s patience, Wolverine’s stealth—the conference decides to settle the matter with a race between the challengers around a foreboding mountaintop lake. And there will be one more contestant of the most unlikely sort: a small, charmingly humble rabbit named Waabooz, whose chances are considered slim by all.

In the action that follows, described with the piercing clarity and richness of any great legend, Wagamese and George gracefully convey the limits of physical force and the quietly irresistible energies of humility, empathy and a loving attachment to the land. Unforgettable for its lyrical power and poignant message, The Animal People Choose a Leader is yet another example of the late author’s unique gifts as a storyteller, and a welcome reminder of his honoured place in Canadian writing.

Reviews
"Written by Richard Wagamese (Ojibwe), a celebrated author known for his evocative storytelling, the book honours the Ojibwe oral tradition, evoking the tone of traditional Indigenous narratives where lessons are passed down through the wisdom of animal beings.... When the forest animals gather to choose a leader, the story prompts reflection on the true qualities of leadership. As the tale unfolds, unexpected wisdom emerges from a humble voice, reinforcing the timeless message that everyone has something to contribute and that true power lies in kindness, empathy, and humility. This book supports K–3 curriculum through its exploration of Indigenous storytelling traditions in English Language Arts, themes of empathy and leadership in Social Emotional Learning, and traditional and contemporary Indigenous art in Arts Education." - Bonny-Lynn D., Elementary School Teacher, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator & Series Information
Juvenile Fiction

This book is part of the Richard Wagamese Storybook Collection.

This book is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for K to 3 classrooms for Art, Drama, and English Language Arts.

Additional Information
32 pages | 10.25" x 9.25" | Hardcover