A curious Qelmúcw (Person) from the Secwépemc Nation is learning about the world around him with the help of some of his relations. Sk̓elep (Coyote) and Tree guide Qelmúcw in understanding Cmesekst te Snewt (The Four Winds).

Qelmúcw experiences the power of a learning journey using perseverance and courage. He discovers that for meaningful learning to happen he needs to find balance or he could be blown off his learning journey, or even worse, not be completely open to his learning.

This story reflects the reciprocal learning and understanding relationship between a human being and all life and elements (all of relations). It models and reflects the importance of First Peoples’ Principles of Learning: learning is holistic, reflexive, experiential, and relational; learning involves the consequences of one’s actions; learning is embedded in story; and learning involves patience and time. Learning from Indigenous stories can be different and personal every time a story is read or told, depending on context.

Four Winds is the perfect bedtime story or read-aloud in the classroom.

This book works well alongside other books by Mike Bowden and Kelsey Jules, including Chief Goose and Porcupine, and includes a familiar character from Bear and Coyote.

 

Educator Information
Recommended for grades 3 to 7.

This book is part of the Secwépemc Stories series.

 

This story is a great resource to introduce Indigenous languages to young readers. Secwepemctsín is one of 30 distinct Indigenous languages in British Columbia and is in the process of being revitalized after governments and religions developed policies to eliminate the rich language and culture of Indigenous peoples. The book integrates Secwépemc words into the text and includes a pronunciation guide on every page. The back of the book includes language resources and a link to an audio pronunciation guide for the Secwépemc alphabet.

 

This story connects to the BC First Peoples’ Principles of Learning and provides an opportunity for those reading to reflect, explore, connect, and learn on a personal interpretative level.

 

Curriculum links:

 

Additional Information
32 Pages | 8.5 " x 11" | ISBN: 9781771744478 | Hardcover