Theme Bundle: Inuit Resources for Primary Students
Resources that become unavailable (in reprint or out of print) will not be included in the bundle. To view what is included in this bundle currently, please scroll below.
Details:
This bundle for primary students is useful for learning more about the Inuit and life in the Arctic. A variety of resources, both fiction and nonfiction, are included, exploring everything from Inuit celebrations, traditions, and stories to the types of plants and animals found in the Arctic and traditional Inuit uses for them.
All of the books included are written, or co-written, by Inuit authors.
Learn more about each title by scrolling below.
● The listed materials for this bundle
can be purchased as a full bundle or separately. To purchase the full bundle click on the "Add to
Basket" button above (the first one on this page).
● To purchase items individually, click the "Add to Basket" buttons below, beneath the individual
item titles.
Fiction
Synopsis:
When Allashua disobeys her parents and goes fishing on the sea ice, she has to use her wits to escape the Qallupilluit--the troll-like creatures her parents have always warned her about that live beneath the frozen surface of the sea. But the only way to break out of their grasp is through an exchange: Allashua can go free if she brings her brothers and sisters back to the sea ice instead. Allashua doesn't want to give them up, but what can she do? After all, a promise is a promise.
Educator Information
A Promise Is a Promise is a collaboration between award-winning storyteller Michael Kusugak and celebrated children's author Robert Munsch. This 30th anniversary edition brings all of the tension of the traditional Inuit story to a new generation of readers. Added features include a new foreword by Michael Kusugak on his role as a storyteller and the importance of storytelling in Inuit culture.
This resource is also available in French: Une Promesse, C'est Une Promesse
Additional Information
32 pages | 7.80" x 7.90"
Synopsis:
Like A Walk on the Tundra, A Walk on the Shoreline introduces young readers to unique plants and animals found in the Arctic, as well as the traditional Inuit uses for the various species.
Young Nukappia can’t wait to get out to his family campsite on the shoreline. After spending all year in the south with his adoptive parents, Nukappia always looks forward to his summer visits with his birth family. After spending one night in town, Nukappia and his uncle Angu begin the long walk down the shore to the family summer campsite, where all of Nukappia’s cousins and aunts and uncles are waiting for him. Along the way, Nukappia learns that the shoreline is not just ice and rocks and water. There is an entire ecosystem of plants and animals that call the shoreline home. From seaweed to clams to char to shore grasses, there is far more to see along the shoreline than Nukappia ever imagined.
Reviews
“A Walk on the Shoreline also has a full-colour glossary of the plants and animals that Nukappia encounters along the way, including photographs, quick facts and traditional uses of the plant or animal. A Walk on the Shoreline is a well-researched, informative and engaging guide to the northern shoreline. The information is well-placed and woven through the text in an engaging manner. The reader gets to learn along with the protagonist, focusing more on the flora and fauna along the way than the rest of the northern setting. This focus on one detail of living in Nunavut works well; it doesn’t try and add too many details, but it provides a thread along the way.” — CM Magazine
“This reunion story features detailed character and scene-setting sketches by Qin Leng that help readers see how traditional Inuit communities live.” — Hakai Magazine
Educator Information
Recommended Ages: 5-7.
Additional Information
40 pages | 8.50" x 8.50"
Synopsis:
Big or small, sweet or savoury, with stew or with sprinkles, there are tons of ways to enjoy bannock!
This rhyming book explores a favourite Inuit food, and has some fun along the way. What’s your favourite way to eat bannock?
Try it at home with the included bannock recipe!
Written by Inuk/Dene writer Masiana Kelly, this sweet and simple narrative celebrates this delicious food!
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.
Additional Information
28 pages | 9.00" x 9.00" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
A sweet, beautiful book for children depicting the transformative dreams envisioned by a young Inuk girl, with the help of her loving mother.
In Bedtime in Nunatsiavut, a little girl named Nya yearns to fly, swim, and wander like the goose, salmon, bear, fox, and other animals that populate her world. Each night, her loving Ananak (mother) tucks her into bed and gives her a kunik (nose-to-nose rub) to help Nya dream and transform into the animals she longs to be like.
In Nya's dreams, she moves with the wonder and the freedom of the natural world, dancing beneath the dark Nunatsiavut skies, empowered and emboldened by her Ananak's constant love. Written and illustrated by first-time author Raeann Brown, Bedtime in Nunatsiavut is a beautiful and joyful tribute to an Inuit childhood.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 8.
Additional Information
40 pages | 9.00" x 12.00" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
When Nekaloakyok was a young girl, she loved going berry picking with her Granny Nalvana. Based on the memories of the author, this book tells the story of a family trip picking akpiks and other berries at Four Mile Bay, near Kugluktuk, Nunavut. Join Nekaloakyok as she reflects on childhood memories and special moments spent with family.
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Nunavummi Reading Series, a Nunavut-developed series that supports literacy learning while teaching readers about the people, traditions, and environment of the Canadian Arctic. This book is a level 13 book in the Nunavummi Reading Series. Nunavummi Reading Series books have also been officially levelled using the Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient™ Levelling System. This book's F&P level is O.
This is a story about tradition and multi-generational relationships based on the author's life growing up in Coppermine (now Kugluktuk). Inuktitut glossary included in endpages.
Recommended for ages 7 to 9.
Curriculum Connections & Keywords: Inuit traditions and ways of life; Indigenous History; Heritage; Memoir; Family
Additional Information
50 pages | 9.00" x 10.00" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
Toonik Tyme is a lot of fun!
This book describes different things that happen during Toonik Tyme, an annual festival in Iqaluit that celebrates Inuit traditions and the return of spring.
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Nunavummi Reading Series, a Nunavut-developed series that supports literacy learning while teaching readers about the people, traditions, and environment of the Canadian Arctic. It is a Level 7 book in the series.
Nunavummi Reading Series books have also been officially levelled using the Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient™ Levelling System. This book's F&P Level is E.
Curriculum Connections: Language and literacy; Indigenous perspectives; Community engagement; History; Heritage
Recommended for ages 5-7.
Additional Information
16 pages | 10.00" x 10.00"
Synopsis:
Richly illustrated and lovingly told, this book is a warm and inviting read, perfect for sharing with any little one. Bowhead whales are the longest-living mammals on the planet, living over 200 years. In this heartwarming story, a grandfather bowhead recounts to his young grandchild calf all the beautiful, amazing, and surprising things he has seen in his lifetime, all while assuring the little calf that there is nothing more wondrous than the love a grandfather has for his grandchild.
Reviews
"Together with painterly illustrations in monochromatic blues of the ocean, this underwater tale shows the wondrous love of a grandparent for his grandchild...Tender words of affection are perfect for sharing with any young child or grandchild."—Kirkus
"The expansive illustrations, awash in marine blues and greens, capture the drama and majesty of the Arctic while also showcasing the tender relationship between the whales. A lovely choice for preschool storytimes."—Booklist
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 0 to 3.
Includes an Inuktitut pronunciation guide and fun facts about bowhead whales.
Themes: Indigenous, baby whale, bedtime book, Arctic, Iqaluit
Additional Information
28 pages | 9.50" x 9.50" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
Nanuraq and Jeela can’t wait to visit their grandmother at her cabin!
The cabin is cozy with the smell of bannock and a qulliq glowing. Grandma explains how she made the qulliq herself! Before long, the kids are pointing out other neat things around the cabin, like wooden dolls, bone toys, and pincushions. The kids learn that Grandma has made all of these items out of found objects.
Through exploring the cabin with their grandmother, the kids learn about the importance of being creative and not being wasteful.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
Includes some Inuktitut words and phrases.
Additional Information
32 pages | 8.00" x 9.00" | Paperback
Synopsis:
Nadia Sammurtok lovingly invites the reader into the amautik—the pouch in the back of a mother’s parka used to carry a child—to experience everything through the eyes of the baby nestled inside, from the cloudlike softness of the pouch to the glistening sound of Anaana’s laughter.
Sweet and soothing, this book offers a unique perspective that will charm readers of all ages.
Reviews
"Each spread appeals to a different sense, creating a deliciously cozy and nurturing microenvironment for this lucky tot. Inuit author and educator Sammurtok brings her work preserving Inuktitut to the text, with a spare sprinkling of vocabulary (defined in a closing glossary). The repetition of “In my anaana’s amautik” at the beginning of each short paragraph is both lulling and reinforcing of the relationship between child and mother. Canadian illustrator Lishchenko’s use of textures and subtle colors blends well with the strong, simple text. Delicate pastels give the Arctic landscape a welcoming beauty, and fanciful depictions of the similes the narrator suggests lend a playful air. The far north has never felt so deliciously warm." — Kirkus, STARRED review
"This gentle story is warm, cozy, and loving—just like being in anaana’s amautik. Readers will carry this gorgeous book close to their hearts." — School Library Journal, STARRED review
"A baby's perspective of being held in its anaana's (mother's) amautik ("the pouch in the back of a woman's parka where a baby can be carried") is explored in lulling, sensory-rich text and illustrations. This gentle story elevates the feelings of comfort and security that the amautik enables."— Horn Book Magazine, STARRED review
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 and under.
Additional Information
24 pages | 9.00" x 9.00"
Synopsis:
This beautifully crafted picture book celebrates one of the world's most awesome animals: the polar bear. Evocative but simple text by award-winning musician and artist Tanya Tagaq is accompanied by striking art in this classic counting book.
Beginning with 1 proud polar bear standing tall and ending with 10 bears waving goodbye, this delightful counting book shows polar bears in all their forms: slippery and fast, crafty and cool, hungry and proud. Tanya has created a story meant to be read aloud, incorporating simple Inuktitut words and using her keen ear for the musical sound of language.
This book is joyful, powerful, clever and striking — much like the bears who sniff, slide, swim, hunt, play and dance through its pages. And when you get to the last page, you won't be able to resist going back to repeat the journey!
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 7.
Concepts: Counting & Numbers; Animals - Polar Bears.
This book is meant to be read aloud and incorporates simple Inuktitut words.
Additional Information
24 pages | 10.50" x 9.00"
Synopsis:
Siasi is always reminded by her parents to help others.
In Inuit traditional values, helping others keeps the community strong and healthy.
Whether it’s helping her father with the fishing nets, making sure her little sister stays safe on her bike, or just helping to keep the house clean and tidy, Siasi learns that helping others can be fun and also feels pretty good inside!
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.
Additional Information
32 pages | 9.00" x 9.00" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
Jake and Kamik are finally ready to run their first dog sled race with a full team! But there is a lot to do to prepare, and Jake must follow his uncle’s lead if he and his dogs are going to be ready for the early spring race.
Kamik Takes the Lead is the fourth installment in the Kamik series of books following Kamik: An Inuit Puppy Story, Kamik’s First Sled, and Kamik Joins the Pack. Books in this series share traditional dog-rearing practices and dog-training techniques from the remote community of Arviat, Nunavut, through the life memories of community members. These books preserve the rich history of working dogs in Nunavut and celebrate the traditional bond between Inuit and their sled dogs.
Building on the dog-training practices outlined in Kamik Joins the Pack, Arviat, Nunavut, author and dog musher Darryl Baker shares with young readers the basic information needed to prepare a dog team for a race.
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 5-7.
Kamik Takes the Lead is the fourth installment in the Kamik series of books. Books in this series share traditional dog-rearing practices and dog-training techniques from the remote community of Arviat, Nunavut, through the life memories of community members. These books preserve the rich history of working dogs in Nunavut and celebrate the traditional bond between Inuit and their sled dogs. Building on the dog-training practices outlined in Kamik Joins the Pack, Arviat, Nunavut, author and dog musher Darryl Baker shares with young readers the basic information needed to prepare a dog team for a race.
Recommended in the Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 2020/2021 resource list for grades K-2 as being useful in the areas of Language Arts and Social Studies.
Additional Information
32 pages | 8.50" x 8.50"
Synopsis:
Akuluk is visiting her family in Nunavut and can’t wait to get out on her uncle’s boat for a ride into the powerful Arctic Ocean. Surrounded by her family, and with her trusty toy polar bear beside her, Akuluk experiences the beautiful sights, sounds, and animals that abound in the ocean and along the shore during the short Arctic summer—from a mother polar bear and her cubs to a family of belugas and tiny Arctic fox kits. As they encounter each animal, Akuluk’s aunt and uncles share with her how each species cares for its young, and how they protect their babies from the other animals who share their ecosystem.
This beautiful story of family connection and respect for the natural world teaches young readers how close humans are to our animal counterparts and that caring for the environment in which we live is one of our most important responsibilities.
Reviews
"Kits, Cubs, and Calves: An Arctic Summer goes beyond summer and gives a picture of life in the arctic for its people, its animals and the land, and it's a great place to visit through Suzie Napayok-Short and Tamara Campeau's work." — CanLit for Little Canadians
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 5 to 7.
Additional Information
32 pages | 9.00" x 8.00"
Synopsis:
Moar has always loved autumn—playing outside with his friends, feeling the weather get colder—but there is one thing about autumn that really worries Moar. The moon. The days become shorter and the moon, with its creepy face and eerie smile, seems to be looking down on him before he can even get home from school! So, one day, Moar is determined to get home before the moon appears in the sky. But there are so many fun things to do on the way home, he may just run out of time!
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 5 to 7.
A fun and gentle social-emotional exploration of fear.
Themes: Iqaluit, Inuit, Nunavut, Indigenous, Moon, Arctic, Autumn, Imagination and Play
Additional Information
32 pages | 9.00" x 9.00" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
Margaret can't wait to see her family, but her homecoming is not what she expected.
Two years ago, Margaret left her Arctic home for the outsiders' school. Now she has returned and can barely contain her excitement as she rushes towards her waiting family -- but her mother stands still as a stone. This strange, skinny child, with her hair cropped short, can't be her daughter. "Not my girl!" she says angrily.
Margaret's years at school have changed her. Now ten years old, she has forgotten her language and the skills to hunt and fish. She can't even stomach her mother's food. Her only comfort is in the books she learned to read at school.
Gradually, Margaret relearns the words and ways of her people. With time, she earns her father's trust enough to be given a dogsled of her own. As her family watches with pride, Margaret knows she has found her place once more.
Based on the true story of Margaret Pokiak-Fenton, and complemented by evocative illustrations, Not My Girl makes the original, award-winning memoir, A Stranger at Home, accessible to younger children. It is also a sequel to the picture book When I Was Eight. A poignant story of a determined young girl's struggle to belong, it will both move and inspire readers everywhere.
Reviews
"For kids who are ready to tackle the not so sunny portion of history, this is a deeply felt exploration of identity and cultural crisis rendered as a deep, satisfying sigh appropriate for sharing aloud." — BCCB The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Boo, August 2014
"Culturally relevant, accurate, and soft, painterly illustrations depict the sequence of events and reinforce the bittersweet and tender reunion of Olemaun with her family."— Natalie Braham, School Library Journal, September 2014
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 9.
This book is available in French: Ou est ma fille?
Additional Information
36 pages | 9.00" x 9.00"
Synopsis:
Discover the amazing story of how an ordinary girl became the mother of sea mammals.
This book shares the traditional Inuit myth of Nuliajuk, the legendary mother of sea mammals. The story of Nuliajuk teaches children even today how important it is to respect nature.
Educator Information
This book is part of the Nunavummi Reading Series, a Nunavut-developed series that supports literacy learning while teaching readers about the people, traditions, and environment of the Canadian Arctic. Nuliajuk is a Level 12 book in the series.
Nunavummi Reading Series books have also been officially levelled using the Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient™ Levelling System. Nuliajuk's F&P Level is M.
Recommended for ages 6-8.
Additional Information
28 pages | 9.00" x 9.00"
Based on a story from Nâlungiaq, as recorded by Knud Rasmussen.
Synopsis:
In this story from West Greenland, one young girl tries to teach her mischievous little sister a lesson by telling her the Inuit traditional story of Takannaaluk.
Pivik is the laziest little sister! She is always complaining about helping Anaana and stealing the best food for herself. Fed up, her big sister, Ukaleq, seizes the chance to teach Pivik a lesson. Ukaleq tells Pivik the story of how Takannaaluk became the Mother of Sea Mammals. Ukaleq warns Pivik not to anger Takannaaluk by being greedy, or their community will starve. Pivik is so scared she can’t sleep! Will Ukaleq’s lesson finally teach Pivik to put others before herself?
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 7 to 9.
Additional Information
44 pages | 10.00" x 10.50" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
Spencer the Siksik can’t wait for the first snowfall. He is going to build a snow fort with Gary the Snow Goose!
When Spencer’s mom tells him he must first shovel his grandma’s steps, he doesn’t understand why she has to ruin his fun. He just wants to play outside! But when Spencer sees that his grandma and her neighbours can’t leave their houses, he remembers what his mom taught him about taking care of Elders in his community.
Follow along as Spencer learns the importance of one of the eight guiding Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit principles: serving others. Explore more books in the Spencer the Siksik series to see how Spencer and his friend Gary learn about the other principles!
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
This book is part of a series that teaches children about Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit principles, or "IQ" principles, which are a set of communal laws that focus on the ways one is expected to behave. Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit literally translates to "that which Inuit have always known to be true." This book teaches the IQ principle of serving others.
Additional Information
40 pages | 9.50" x 10.50" | Paperback
Synopsis:
It’s a beautiful day, and Spencer the Siksik can’t wait to play with his friends!
Gary the Snow Goose wants to play Inuit baseball. Spencer thinks tag is more fun. When Spencer and Gary disagree, Spencer storms off. Can Spencer and Gary come up with a decision that they are both happy with? See how Spencer and Gary learn about one of the eight guiding Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit principles: consensus decision-making.
Don’t miss the rest of Spencer’s adventures! Each book in this series follows Spencer the Siksik and Gary the Snow Goose as they learn about one of the Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ) principles. The IQ principles are a set of Inuit beliefs, values, and communal laws focused on living a good life and the ways one is expected to behave. Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit literally translates to "that which Inuit have always known to be true."
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
This book is part of a series that teaches children about Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit principles, or "IQ" principles, which are a set of communal laws that focus on the ways one is expected to behave. Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit literally translates to "that which Inuit have always known to be true." This book teaches the IQ principle of consensus decision-making.
Additional Information
36 pages | 9.50" x 10.50" | Paperback
Synopsis:
Avatittinnik Kamatsiarniq: Respecting the land, animals, and environment.
Spencer can’t wait for gym class. He can’t wait to play soccer baseball! But his teacher announces that the class will be cleaning up the playground instead. Spencer is upset. He never litters, so why should he pick up other people’s trash? When his friend Gary gets stuck in a discarded plastic ring, Spencer remembers what his grandmother taught him about taking care of the land. Can Spencer make it up to his classmates before the community clean-up is over? Follow along with Spencer and Gary as they learn about one of the eight guiding Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit principles: respecting the land, animals and environment.
Don’t miss the rest of Spencer’s adventures! Check out the series to find out how Spencer and Gary learn about each of the eight guiding Qaujimajatuqangit principles.
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
This book is part of a series that teaches children about Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit principles, or "IQ" principles, which are a set of communal laws that focus on the ways one is expected to behave. Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit literally translates to "that which Inuit have always known to be true." Spencer the Siksik Cleans Up teaches children about the Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit principle of respecting the land, animals, and environment.
Additional Information
36 pages | 10.50" x 9.50" | Paperback
Synopsis:
Spencer is stuck inside on a boring rainy day. As he plays on his tablet, he becomes frustrated trying to hold it upright. He asks his parents for a tablet holder, but they explain that it is not something Spencer needs. He understands, but he still has to find a way to hold the tablet without being uncomfortable. Then, Spencer remembers what his grandmother told him about being innovative and resourceful. What will Spencer create to solve his problem?
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
This book is part of a series that teaches children Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit principles, or "IQ" principles, which are a set of communal laws that focus on the ways one is expected to behave. Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit literally translates to "that which Inuit have always known to be true." This book teaches children about the Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit principle of qanuqtuurniq, being innovative and resourceful.
This title encourages creativity and using what you have to solve problems.
Additional Information
32 pages | 9.50" x 10.50" | Paperback
Synopsis:
Join in on the Sun Celebration in Grise Fiord, Nunavut, in this charming bilingual storybook!
Suupi lives in Grise Fiord, Nunavut. After three months of darkness in her community, the sun is finally about to return. Suupi and her friends can’t focus on their schoolwork. Today they will celebrate the return of the sun! There will be a sliding competition, a school performance, and a community feast. But Suupi is nervous about performing with her class in front of so many people. Will she find a way to overcome her fear?
Written by an author from Grise Fiord, a community in Nunavut where the sun doesn’t rise for nine months, Suupi and the Sun Celebration introduces readers to traditions within this Northern community that commemorate the return of the sun each year.
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.
Bilingual Inuktitut and English Edition
Themes: Family, Community, Return of the Sun, Celebrations, Singing, Traditional Songs, Throat Singing, Sun Celebration
This book is part of the Community Connections series.
Additional Information
44 pages | 8.00" x 8.00". Paperback
Synopsis:
Inspired by a true story!
Tanna's Puppy is the third installment of authors Rachel and Sean Qitsualik-Tinsley's acclaimed series of children's books that explore Rachel's childhood experiences with Arctic animals.
Training dogs has been a strong Inuit tradition for generations. Sled dogs in Inuit communities are valued working animals with a clear and important purpose. Tanna has always known that dogs are not pets. They are not meant to live in houses. Then one day, Tanna is given a puppy to raise as a pet. Dandy is the cutest pup she has ever seen, but Tanna knows her father will not let her keep Dandy as a pet. She eventually convinces her father to let Dandy into the house, just as a test, to see if she can become a good pet. It's a test that Dandy seems unable to pass—she chews Father's tools and the family's caribou skin clothing; she jumps in the frigid Arctic water and nearly freezes. Finally, Father decides Dandy will need to learn to be a sled dog after all, and he and Tanna take Dandy on a trip with the other sled dogs. While out on the land, the family encounters a danger that threatens Tanna's life. Dandy wastes no time in jumping in to protect her owners. Will Dandy's love for her owners win Father over to having a dog as a pet?
A heartwarming tale of the unique realities of Northern life and the changing definitions of what it means to be a family.
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
This book is part of the Tanna's Animals series.
Additional Information
32 pages | 9.00" x 10.00" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
When the narrator of this fun and silly book is startled by the buzzing of a bee, she sets off on an adventure that sees her running from community to community, trying to lose her buzzing companion. When she has run clear across Nunavut, she finally realizes that perhaps this little bee isn’t such a fearsome foe after all!
Reviews
"Should delight little ones with rhythmic and repetitive words and actions." —Kirkus
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 5 to 7.
Themes: Nunavut, Indigenous, Qaariaq, Arctic, fear of bees.
Includes an Inuktitut pronunciation guide.
The Bee is based on the author's award-winning song "Qaariaq".
Additional Information
28 pages | 8.50" x 8.50" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
Based on an ancient Inuit traditional story, this beautifully illustrated picture book tells of the appearance of the first humans on earth, and how from them all the peoples of the earth emerged. From a mound of simple dirt, through magic and intention, the world we know today slowly takes shape across the page.
Retold with loving care by Inuit author and actress Maika Harper, The First Peoples is both mythical and magical, an ancient tale brought to life for new generations.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
Additional Information
24 pages | 8.50" x 9.50" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
In this traditional story from the Western Arctic, a kind giant adopts a human boy. One night, after a meal, the giant gives the boy one job, to watch for grizzly bears while he sleeps. Each time the boy sees a bear, he wakes the giant. But the giant is so big he is not concerned with any regular grizzly. That is until a giant grizzly appears and the giant must fight to protect himself and his adopted son!
Told in a manner faithful to the original traditional story, passed forward for generations, this thrilling tale will delight young readers looking for adventure.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
Additional Information
36 pages | 8.50" x 9.50"| Hardcover
Synopsis:
“Long ago, there lived great giants in the Arctic.”
But where did they go? Learn all about the famous giants of the North, including Inukpasuksuk, Nuvuja, and others. Why do winds from the south bring warm weather? What happens when the giant in the sky gets upset? The Great Giants of the Arctic answers these questions and more using simple language for young readers to enjoy.
This stunningly illustrated bilingual picture book serves as an early-level introduction to the rich, mysterious world of Inuit mythology. Adapted by author and linguist Jaypeetee Arnakak with the intention of teaching Inuktitut as as a second language, The Great Giants of the Arctic can be enjoyed by Inuktitut language learners and curious young readers alike.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 6.
Bilingual: Inuktitut and English
Additional Information
36 pages | 8.50" x 8.50"| Hardcover
Synopsis:
This traditional story, retold by Kugaaruk Elder Levi Illuitok, tells the tale of a Inuk boy who is adopted by little folk—a magical race of small Arctic people called inugarulliit. The boy’s adopted parents finally allow him to go hunting, where he catches a lemming. The little folk use their abilities to turn the lemming into a polar bear, and the catch is stored at their iglu. The boy’s parents are proud that their son can provide lots of meat to share with the community. This is a magical introduction to a traditional Inuit story for young readers.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
Additional Information
28 pages | 8.00" x 9.00" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
A young girl discovers nature’s surprising beauty in this tale from a renowned Inuit storyteller.
When Aggataa goes for a cold winter walk with her grandmother, she’s surprised by a sudden CRAH! All the birds have flown south for the winter except one kind—the tulugarguat, the ravens. They’re the ugliest birds that Aggaataa has ever seen. They look like they slept in their coats—coats that don’t even fit! However, as the winter slowly moves towards spring, Aggataa connects with one small raven in particular.
As the seasons change in full, the ravens leave and are replaced by seagulls, cranes, geese, ducks, and swans—all of them far more elegant than the “Ugly Bird.” But where Aggataa once thought the ravens odd for visiting during the harshest part of the year, she now finds herself watching the horizon, waiting for the return of the most amazing bird.
This touching story by award-winning author Michael Arvaarluk Kusugak reminds us of our lasting connection to nature, while art by celebrated illustrator Andrew Qappik illuminates the enduring magic of the changing seasons.
Awards
- 2020 Top 10 Picture Books of the Year, The Globe and Mail joint winner
- 2020 Kirkus Best Books List joint winner
Reviews
“The illustrations enrich the text and celebrate the heartwarming message that nature is a wonderful gift that we can connect to and relish.”— Storywraps
“Stunningly contemporary and amazingly timeless.”— Kirkus Reviews
“Sparse illustrations of arctic flora and fauna against the unforgiving snow and ice make this picture book immersive.” — Foreword Reviews
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 7.
Michael's story is about connection to nature and each other.
The art in this story is an authentic depiction of the Arctic landscape and provides the Inuit names for the birds.
Additional Information
40 pages | 9.50" x 6.90" | Paperback
Synopsis:
In very early times, there was no night or day and words spoken by chance could become real. When a hare and a fox meet and express their longing for light and darkness, their words are too powerful to be denied. Passed orally from storyteller to storyteller for hundreds of years, this beautifully illustrated story weaves together elements of an origin story and a traditional animal tale, giving young readers a window into Inuit mythology.
Educator Information
Recommended in a Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools resource list as being useful for grades 2-5 in these subject areas: English Language Arts, Social Studies.
Useful as a read-aloud, independent read, or information resource for students.
Additional Information
32 pages | 9.00" x 8.00" | Paperback
Synopsis:
When young Donald and his friends head down to the water to play, they have no idea that they are soon to encounter an arnajuinnaq ('mermaid'), one of the creatures that his elders have told him about. Terrified, the boys run back to their camp, ready to tell everyone what they have just seen. But what did they see? They can't seem to remember it clearly. It is up to Donald's grandmother to explain to them the magical creature they just encountered.
Based on the author's own childhood experiences.
Additional Information
36 pages | 9.00" x 9.00"
Synopsis:
In this retelling of an Inuit traditional story from the Western Arctic, a doll made by a poor old woman who is cast aside by her camp magically comes to life. The boy, with the beak of a raven from the materials the doll was crafted from, lives and is raised as the old woman’s son. When he is finally old enough to venture out on his own, he embarks on an epic journey to fight a beast from the depths of the ocean to create his own island world.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
Additional Information
32 pages | 9.50" x 9.50" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
How did Inuit come to know so much about Arctic animals? Follow a shaman as he is reborn as a polar bear, a ringed seal, and more to learn about what each animal teaches him. Through simplified text and engaging illustrations, young readers are sure to enjoy this adaptation of a traditional story.
This stunningly illustrated bilingual picture book serves as an early-level introduction to the rich, mysterious world of Inuit mythology. Adapted by author and linguist Jaypeetee Arnakak with the intention of teaching Inuktitut as a second language, The Shaman Who Became Many Animals can be enjoyed by Inuktitut language learners and curious young readers alike.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 6.
Dual-language format: English and Inuktitut.
This is a traditional story told in a simple way for young readers.
Additional Information
36 pages | 8.50" x 8.50" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
Wolf wants to know how Fox catches so many fish. Fox thinks Wolf is trying to play a trick on him. Wolf claims he will catch many more fish than Fox ever could. Can Fox teach Wolf a lesson about being boastful and greedy?
Discover this engaging retelling of an Inuit traditional story, which has been simplified for young readers to enjoy.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 5 to 7.
Bilingual: Inuktitut and English
F&P Level: L
Additional Information
32 pages | 8.50" x 8.50" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
“Long ago, animals were different. They could speak. They wore clothing. They used tools…”
Raven and Loon are best friends. They love to sew clothes for each other. But when Raven won’t hold still to be measured for a new coat Loon is making, Loon gets mad. What happens when these two friends disagree?
Uncover this traditional Inuit story retold in simple and accessible prose for developing readers to enjoy over and over again!
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 6.
Additional Information
24 pages | 8.50" x 8.50" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
Etua Snowball shares his childhood experience with the unlikeliest of friend—an Arctic wolf pup that he meets at a remote camp where the boy spends his summers.
As the child and the pup become more comfortable with one another, they go hunting, walking, exploring, and catching butterflies together across the tundra. With the end of summer approaching, the young boy knows he must soon return home. Will he gain enough trust from the pup to be able to pet it before he leaves?
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
Inspired by a true story!
This book is part of the My Wild Arctic Friends series.
Additional Information
28 pages | 8.00" x 9.00" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
When a mother and daughter find a polar bear cub alone on the sea ice, the daughter cannot bear to leave it behind. Finding no mother bear in sight, the two adopt the cub and raise it as the girl’s brother.
The cub and the girl become fast friends—even if the cub’s bear sense of smell always means he wins at hide-and-seek! The cub hunts for the community, and they never want for food. But the cub continues to grow, and eventually he is no longer a fuzzy little cub, but a powerful full-grown bear. Some in the community become fearful of the bear, but the girl and her mother love him just the same.
That is, until one day, the bear returns from a hunt with another bear by his side. The mother soon learns that they need to let the cub go, in order for him to live the happy life they want for him.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.
Additional Information
36 pages | 8.50" x 9.50" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
Ukpik loves living in her camp in the North with her family and she especially loves thinking up names for her brand new puppy. When a captain from the south arrives to trade with Ukpik's father, she's excited to learn how to use forks, knives, and spoons.
At first, Ukpik enjoys teaching the other children how to use these new tools. But soon, she starts to wonder if they'll need to use the new tools all the time, and if that means that everything in camp will change.
After a conversation with her grandmother, Ukpik realizes that even though she will learn many new things, her love for her family and camp will never change - and it even inspires her to find a name for her puppy!
Educator Information
Recommended in the Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 2019-2020 resource list as being useful for grades K-3 in these subject areas: English Language Arts and Social Studies.
This book is available in French: Una Huna?: Qu'est-ce-que c'est ?
Additional Information
36 pages | 8.00" x 9.00"
Synopsis:
Ukpik’s mother is eager to teach Ukpik how to prepare caribou skin, dry it, and use it to sew a pair of simple, useful mitts. But Ukpik can’t stop thinking about the beautiful new beads her mother traded the Captain for on his last visit. They are so bright and beautiful! Anaana knows it is more important for Ukpik to learn the skills she will need to make her own clothing in the cold Arctic climate, so she insists that Ukpik sit with her and learn the basics, while having a bit of fun, too. Though Anaana won’t let Ukpik sew with the new beads just yet, she does have a surprise for Ukpik that will let her enjoy the new-found treasures while also learning the skills she will need to provide for herself and her family.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
Additional Information
36 pages | 8.00" x 9.00" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
Miali loves spending time with her anaanatsiaq!
Anaanatsiaq has lots of stories to share about her past. Miali loves listening to Anaanatsiaq’s stories and learning about what life was like long ago.
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Nunavummi Reading Series, a Nunavut-developed series that supports literacy learning while teaching readers about the people, traditions, and environment of the Canadian Arctic. It is a Level 12 book in the series.
Nunavummi Reading Series books have also been officially levelled using the Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient™ Levelling System. F&P Level of this book: O.
Curriculum Connections: Language and Literacy; Diversity; Indigenous Perspectives; History and Heritage.
Recommended for ages 7 to 9.
Additional Information
24 pages | 7.00" x 9.00"
Synopsis:
You Are Not Alone is an illustrated children's book about growing up in the North as an Inuit child and looking for friends. This book is a debut collaboration between Tagiuk Ikkidluak, an emerging Inuit author and Arnaq Pitsiulak, an Inuit artist and illustrator.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8.
Additional Information
26 pages | 8.00" x 8.00" | Paperback
Synopsis:
A mother. A story. A curious child.
“How did I get in your belly?” a child asks his mother. “Well, it’s a magical story...” she tells him. In this lyrical love letter from mother to son, a woman reflects on her journey to motherhood. From learning to care for others to honouring family members through Inuit naming practices, this touching book celebrates all the ways in which a child is loved.
Written by Inuit author, throat singer, and filmmaker Tanya Snow, You Come From the Stars showcases a mother's tenderness for her child against the backdrop of the stunning Arctic tundra.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 8.
Additional Information
28 pages | 9.00" x 8.00" | Hardcover
Non-Fiction
Synopsis:
In this book, kids will learn how bowheads raise their babies, where they live, what they eat, and other interesting information, like how they can eat when they don’t have any teeth!
Reviews
"The book is divided into sections covering such topics as: range, skeleton, blowholes, baleen, diet, reproduction, predators, fun facts, and traditional uses. There are typically two short paragraphs per heading, with plenty of detailed diagrams and illustrations.... That the author seemingly anticipates the questions young readers may pose results in an engaging relay of facts. References to Inuit culture are peppered throughout." - CM Magazine
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the non-fiction Animals Illustrated series, which mixes fun-filled animal facts suitable for the youngest of readers with intricately detailed illustrations to create a unique and beautiful collection of children’s non-fiction books on Arctic animals. Each volume contains firsthand accounts from authors who live in the Arctic, along with interesting facts on the behaviours and biology of each animal.
Recommended Ages: 5-7
Available in French: Baleine boreale
Additional Information
28 pages | 6.75" x 9.25"
Synopsis:
Animals Illustrated mixes fun-filled animal facts suitable for the youngest of readers with intricately detailed illustrations to create a unique and beautiful collection of children’s non-fiction books on Arctic animals. Each volume contains first-hand accounts from authors who live in the Arctic, along with interesting facts on the behaviours and biology of each animal.
In this book, kids will learn how caribou raise their babies, where they live, what they eat, and other interesting information, like how fast caribou can run—up to 50 miles per hour!
Reviews
"Animals Illustrated is a significant series for young animal lovers who are interested in reading for themselves about the animals of the Arctic" - CanLit for Little Canadians
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the non-fiction Animals Illustrated series, which mixes fun-filled animal facts suitable for the youngest of readers with intricately detailed illustrations to create a unique and beautiful collection of children’s non-fiction books on Arctic animals. Each volume contains firsthand accounts from authors who live in the Arctic, along with interesting facts on the behaviours and biology of each animal.
Recommended Ages: 5-7
Available in French: Caribou (French)
Additional Information
28 pages | 6.75" x 9.25"
Synopsis:
Animals Illustrated mixes fun-filled animal facts suitable for the youngest of readers with intricately detailed illustrations to create a unique and beautiful collection of children's non-fiction nooks on Arctic animals. Each volume contains first-hand accounts from authors who live in the Arctic, along with interesting facts on the behaviours and biology of each animal.
Kids will learn how Muskoxen raise their babies, what they eat and how they forage, where they can be found, and other interesting information, like the many fascinating adaptations they exhibit that allow them to live in colder habitats than most other animals!
Awards
- 2017 Canadian Children's Book Centre Best Books for Kids and Teens
Reviews
“Design of the series is spot-on, with attractive covers and lay-out that is both consistent throughout the series and age-appropriate for conveying information visually and textually.” — Kid Lit North
“. . . [I]ncludes extensive information about the muskoxen’s strategies for defense and for withstanding the cold.” — CanLit for Little Canadians
“The author, a Nunavut hunter and trapper, knows the animal well and shares his knowledge.” — Sal’s Fiction Addiction
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the non-fiction Animals Illustrated series, which mixes fun-filled animal facts suitable for the youngest of readers with intricately detailed illustrations to create a unique and beautiful collection of children’s non-fiction books on Arctic animals. Each volume contains firsthand accounts from authors who live in the Arctic, along with interesting facts on the behaviours and biology of each animal.
Recommended Ages: 5-7
Available in French: Bœuf musqué
Additional Information
24 pages | 6.75" x 9.25"
Synopsis:
Animals Illustrated mixes fun-filled animal facts suitable for the youngest of readers with intricately detailed illustrations to create a unique and beautiful collection of children's non-fiction books on Arctic animals. Each volume contains first-hand accounts from authors who live in the Arctic, along with interesting facts on the behaviours and biology of each animal.
Kids will learn about how narwhal raise their young in the cold Arctic ocean, what they eat, and where they can be found, along with other interested information, like the fact that a narwhals long tusk is actually a tooth!
Reviews
“Narwhal is definitely recommended for school libraries and classroom collections.” — CM Magazine
“The table of contents gives a clear sense of organization. The illustrations are both scientifically accurate, engaging, and beautiful.” — Kid Lit North
“. . . [I]ncludes comment about the narwhal’s deep diving and behaviour beneath the ice, as well as about its impressive tooth, often referred to as a tusk, that can grow up to almost 3 metres in length.” — CanLit for Little Canadians
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the non-fiction Animals Illustrated series, which mixes fun-filled animal facts suitable for the youngest of readers with intricately detailed illustrations to create a unique and beautiful collection of children’s non-fiction books on Arctic animals. Each volume contains firsthand accounts from authors who live in the Arctic, along with interesting facts on the behaviours and biology of each animal.
Recommended Ages: 5-7
This book is available in French: Narval
Additional Information
24 pages | 6.75" x 9.25"
Synopsis:
Animals Illustrated mixes fun-filled animal facts suitable for the youngest of readers with intricately detailed illustrations to create a unique and beautiful collection of children’s non-fiction books on Arctic animals. Each volume contains first-hand accounts from authors who live in the Arctic, along with interesting facts on the behaviours and biology of each animal.
Kids will learn about how walruses raise their young in the cold Arctic ocean, what they eat, and where they can be found, along with other interesting information, like the fascinating uses for their characteristic tusks.
Awards
- 2017 OLA Best Bet
- 2017 Canadian Children's Book Centre Best Books for Kids and Teens
Reviews
“Young readers will learn the basics about walruses here: adaptations, young, social groups, feeding, anatomy, range, predators, dangers to humans, and Inuit use of walruses for meat and ivory for their harpoons.” — Kirkus Reviews
“The endpapers, as well, use illustrations to full effect to convey information.” — Kid Lit North
“. . . [I]t’s the uncommon info, like which bulls can be a threat to boats and how walrus meat is prepared by the Inuit, that makes Herve Paniaq’s Walrus distinct.” — CanLit for Little Canadians
“. . . [M]akes a wonderful addition to library shelves, and should be there for those kids who love to learn about new and not always common animals.” — Sal’s Fiction Addiction
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the non-fiction Animals Illustrated series, which mixes fun-filled animal facts suitable for the youngest of readers with intricately detailed illustrations to create a unique and beautiful collection of children’s non-fiction books on Arctic animals. Each volume contains firsthand accounts from authors who live in the Arctic, along with interesting facts on the behaviours and biology of each animal.
This book has been officially levelled using the Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient™ Levelling System. It's F&P level is P.
Recommended Ages: 5-7
This book is available in French: Morse
Additional Information
32 pages | 6.75" x 9.25"
Synopsis:
In this book, kids will learn how wolverines raise their babies, where they live, what they eat, and other interesting information, like how they use their distinctive scent and how they became known as the gluttons of the animal kingdom!
Reviews
"Niptanatiak shares the scientific facts about the animal in a very accessible and simple way, so despite its factual nature this book feels like anything but a boring textbook. A key focus of the facts is how the wolverine engages with its surroundings and other animals, making it a great way to introduce young readers to the Indigenous concept of relationality." - Excerpt from IBBY Canada's From Sea to Sea to Sea: Celebrating Indigenous Picture Books - 2023 Edition
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the non-fiction Animals Illustrated series, which mixes fun-filled animal facts suitable for the youngest of readers with intricately detailed illustrations to create a unique and beautiful collection of children’s non-fiction books on Arctic animals. Each volume contains firsthand accounts from authors who live in the Arctic, along with interesting facts on the behaviours and biology of each animal.
Themes: Nunavut, Inuit, Indigenous, Arctic Animals, STEM
"A key focus of the facts is how the wolverine engages with its surroundings and other animals, making it a great way to introduce young readers to the Indigenous concept of relationality" - From Sea to Sea to Sea 2023 Edition
Recommended Ages: 6 to 8.
Available in French: Carcajou
Additional Information
28 pages | 6.50" x 9.00" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
In Nunavut, there are a lot of things to celebrate!
This book features celebrations that are important to communities across the North, such as The Return of the Sun and Nunavut Day.
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Nunavummi Reading Series, a Nunavut-developed series that supports literacy learning while teaching readers about the people, traditions, and environment of the Canadian Arctic. It is a Level 10 book in the series.
Nunavummi Reading Series books have also been officially levelled using the Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient™ Levelling System. F&P Level of this book: L.
Curriculum Connections: Language and Literacy; Diversity; Indigenous Perspectives; History and Heritage.
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
Additional Information
22 pages | 7.00" x 9.00"
Synopsis:
Joanasie loves to live in Kinngait, Nunavut. His community may be small, but it is never boring!
Kinngait is a small community with lots to do throughout the year. Joanasie rides his bike in the summer and has snowball fights under the northern lights in the winter. And don't forget about Kinngait Studios, home of the talented artists that make Kinngait the "Capital of Inuit Art." Join Joanasie as he explains why Kinngait is a great place to live in this bilingual picture book.
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.
Dual-language: English and Inuktitut
This book is part of the Community Connections series.
I Love to Live in Kinngait teaches readers about the community dubbed the “Capital of Inuit Art.”
Additional Information
21 pages | 8.00" x 9.00" | Paperback
Synopsis:
Inuit games have been played as long as anyone can remember!
Learn all about Inuit games and why they are important for staying healthy and strong for life in the Arctic.
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Nunavummi Reading Series, a Nunavut-developed series that supports literacy learning while teaching readers about the people, traditions, and environment of the Canadian Arctic. It is a Level 11 book in the series.
Nunavummi Reading Series books have also been officially levelled using the Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient™ Levelling System. F&P Level of this book: L.
Curriculum Connections: Language and Literacy; Diversity; Indigenous Perspectives; History and Heritage.
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
Additional Information
24 pages | 10.30" x 8.50"
Synopsis:
There are many tools used in the western part of the Arctic! Learn about these tools and their different uses, from softening skins to pounding seal fat.
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Nunavummi Reading Series, a Nunavut-developed series that supports literacy learning while teaching readers about the people, traditions, and environment of the Canadian Arctic. It is a Level 8 book in the series.
Nunavummi Reading Series books have also been officially levelled using the Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient™ Levelling System. This book's F&P Level is K.
Recommended for ages 5 to 7.
Additional Information
20 pages | 7.00" x 9.00"
Synopsis:
Lucy loves living in Arctic Bay. There are so many things to do in each season! In the winter during "the great darkness," Lucy likes watching the northern lights. She is always excited to welcome the sun back in the spring. In the summer, Lucy can't wait to go blueberry picking, camping, and eat pissi. Follow along with Lucy as she takes readers through the seasons and shares all her favourite things about living in beautiful Arctic Bay.
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.
Dual-Language: English and Inuktitut.
This book is part of the Community Connections series.
Additional Information
29 pages | 9.00" x 8.00" | Paperback
Synopsis:
“Before schools were introduced to the Inuit, we were taught by our relatives.”
In this picture book, Monica Ittusardjuat shares how she learned knowledge and skills in a time before being taken to residential school. She describes how children learned through playing games, imitating grown-ups, and observing adults around them.
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 7 to 9.
Inhabit Education Books is proud to introduce Qinuisaarniq (“resiliency”), a program created to educate Nunavummiut about the history and impacts of residential schools, policies of assimilation, and other colonial acts that affected the Canadian Arctic. This book is a part of that program.
Each resource in the program has been carefully written and reviewed to include level-appropriate opportunities for students to learn about colonial acts and policies that affected Inuit. Topics covered include the residential school system, relocations to settlements and the High Arctic, sled dog slaughters, the use of E and W numbers, and others. These acts and policies created long-lasting impacts on Inuit individuals and communities, which are still being felt today.
The resources in this program include personal interviews, testimony, and writing; non-fiction informational resources; and information about traditional Inuit practices.
This resource is included in the Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 2020/2021 list as being useful for grades 2 to 4 for English Language Arts and Social Studies.
Additional Information
26 pages | 8.00" x 9.00"
Synopsis:
Learn all about the process of making rope from bearded seal skin! Rope is a very useful tool and is used by Inuit for many things. From removing the blubber to hanging the rope to dry, this introductory guide takes readers through a step-by-step process for making rope from bearded seal skin.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
Making Rope Out of Bearded Sealskin gives simple, step-by-step instructions on how to make rope out of bearded sealskin and describes other things Inuit make out of sealskin.
Additional Information
24 pages | 8.00" x 10.00" | Paperback
Synopsis:
What will Monica see and learn when she visits a new community?
Monica is visiting her aunt Peesee in Kimmirut, Nunavut. There are many wonderful things to see and do there. Monica is excited to explore and learn about her aunt's community. Join Monica and Peesee as they go clam digging, visit waterfalls, and see the tallest trees on Baffin Island in this bilingual picture book!
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.
Dual-language: English and Inuktitut
This book is part of the Community Connections series.
Additional Information
23 pages | 8.00" x 9.00" | Paperback
Synopsis:
Alice loves her community, and she's excited to show others her favourite things to see and do throughout the year. From ice fishing to collecting clams to cheering on hunters in the community, there is always something to enjoy in Sanirajak.
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 5 to 7.
Dual-Language: English and Inuktitut
Readers will learn about different activities people do in each season in Sanirajak, Nunavut in Sanirajak, a Place I Love.
Sanirajak, a Place I Love teaches about the values of community and sharing food with community members after a hunt.
This book is part of the Community Connections series.
Additional Information
36 pages | 9.00" x 10.00" | Paperback
Synopsis:
Learn about a celebrated Inuit artist! Ningiukulu Teevee is a talented artist from Kinngait, Nunavut. Find out about her incredible body of work, her inspiration, techniques, and what it was like growing up in Kinngait surrounded by other amazing artists.
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 7 to 9.
This book is part of the Nunavummi Reading Series, a Nunavut-developed series that supports literacy learning while teaching readers about the people, traditions, and environment of the Canadian Arctic. It is a Level 12 book in the series.
Nunavummi Reading Series books have also been officially levelled using the Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient™ Levelling System. This book's F&P Level is S.
The Life and Art of Ningiukulu Teevee teaches children about a successful Inuit artist.
Additional Information
32 pages | 7.00" x 10.00" | Hardcover
Synopsis:
"Inuit games have been played all over the Arctic for a very long time. They are played for fun, to practise survival skills, and as exercise."
Discover everything about Inuit games in Arviat, Nunavut! Practice skipping stones, building iglus, and challenge your friends to a race. Test your skills in the blindfold and jumping games and learn to play Inuit baseball.
Written by the late Inuit Elder Donald Uluadluak Sr. and accompanied by the author's original illustrations, this book is a fun introduction to Inuit games.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
Additional Information
32 pages | 6.00" x 8.00"| Paperback
Synopsis:
Delve into a centuries—old mystery about a lost Arctic civilization!
Tuniit lived in Nunavut for a thousand years, even before Inuit arrived. This book introduces children to scientific theories and Inuit oral history to learn all about Tuniit.
Educator Information
This book is part of the Nunavummi Reading Series, a Nunavut-developed series that supports literacy learning while teaching readers about the people, traditions, and environment of the Canadian Arctic. Tuniit is a Level 10 book in the series.
Nunavummi Reading Series books have also been officially levelled using the Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient™ Levelling System. Tuniit's F&P Level is M.
Recommended for ages 5-7.
Additional Information
32 pages | 5.50" x 8.50"

Synopsis:
“We Are All Connected” is a series that explores how we all live together in a shared balance upon Mother Earth. Each book explores a specific ecosystem with a focus on one animal and its adaptations for survival within that ecosystem. Indigenous interviewees, each living within the same area, have responded to strategic questions as to how their community interacts with the land, their traditional territory. Explore each text with a sense of inquiry in mind.
8 We Are All Connected Titles Coast Salish, Coastal Rainforests and Cougars Haisla, Rivers and Chinook Salmon Inuit, Tundra and Ravens Lakota, Mixed Grasslands and Bald Eagles Métis, Wetlands and Mallards Nisga'a, Ponds and Leopard Frogs Nlaka'pamux, Grasslands and Rattlesnakes Sto:lo, Riparian Forests and Black Bears Each title covers the following curricular areas. Traditional storytelling and artwork begin each title from the focus Indigenous territory. Science: Biodiversity, classification, life cycles, food chains, food webs and connections between living and non-living things are just some of the science concepts included in each book. Social Studies: Contemporary and historical Indigenous cultural knowledge flows throughout each book. Local land forms, gatherings, harvesting practices and government are some of the social studies concepts included in each book.
2 Foundation Titles The two foundational books provide deeper understanding of the content of the “We Are All Connected” titles. We Are All Connected: The Earth, Our Home- explores biomes, ecosystems and biodiversity. We Are All Connected: The Earth, We Share- explores the interconnectedness between living and non-living things.
Authenticity Note: This title includes some Indigenous artwork and photographs, such as artwork from Tooma Laisa and Terri Mack.
Additional Information
32 Pages | 8.5" x 11" | ISBN: 9781771742481
Synopsis:
Does your name have a story?
Kukik is named after her great-grandmother. Naullaq’s name honours his uncle. Panigusiq and Tegeapak have stories behind their names, too. Naming is an important practice to Inuit. This book follows four Inuit children as they explain the meanings of their names in simple language for young children to enjoy.
Written by four Inuit children who share their own stories about how they got their names, this bilingual storybook offers a unique look into Inuit traditional naming practices.
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.
Dual-Language: English and Inuktitut
This book teaches children about the important practice of Inuit traditional naming.
Additional Information
34 pages | 10.00" x 8.00" | Paperback
Graphic Novels
Synopsis:
In each new adventure, Putuguq and Kublu learn about an element of Inuit mythology from their Elders, sometimes using what they learn to get the best of each other!
Putuguq and Kublu are at their grandparents’ house for lunch—caribou stew, Putuguq’s favourite! Putuguq’s worn out (and stinky!) kamiik remind his grandparents of the story of the amautalik and the orphan, a traditional Inuit story about a little orphan who outsmarts a child-stealing ogress. Grandmother’s storytelling over lunch starts Putuguq’s imagination running wild . . .
After lunch, Putuguq and Kublu decide to play a game of hide-and-seek. But, for Putuguq, this is no ordinary game. The house is full of strange noises, and what is that hulking figure? Could an amautalik really be stalking him inside his grandparents’ house? Putuguq is about to find out!
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.
This book is part of the Putuguq & Kublu series.
Additional Information
40 pages | 6.00" x 8.00" | Paperback
Synopsis:
What creatures lurk beneath the sea ice? Putuguq and Kublu – two siblings who can’t seem to get along- are about to find out! On their way to the shoreline, Putuguq and Kublu run into their grandfather, who has a stern warning for the pair: always beware when playing on the shore, because you never know if a qalupalik, a mythical creature that snatches children, is lying in wait under the ice. Kublu is pretty sure their grandfather is just trying to spook them with a scary story from the past….but maybe not?
Reviews
"More playful than scary, Putuguq & Kublu and the Qalupalik! succeeds in teaching about contemporary Indigenous culture in a non-didactic, humorous way. As a supplementary text, it will easily align to curricula while helping children build their literacy skills. With brightly coloured illustrations and engaging dialogue, it’s one of those books that is highly informational without revealing as much to its young readers."
"This graphic novel for beginners has just the right balance of mischief, excitement, and danger, with enough humor to keep things light. Bright colors, clean lines, and larger panels make for inviting, uncluttered reading. Set in a small town in Nunavut, Canada, this story centers Inuit culture in all aspects but never feels forced or didactic. Rather, readers will get a glimpse into contemporary Indigenous lives that are both different and very much like their own."
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Putuguq & Kublu series.
Recommended for ages 5+
Additional Information
32 pages | 6.00" x 8.00"
Synopsis:
On a cloudless summer night, a fox falls to earth and comes across a family of humans. As the seasons change and they move their camp, she follows them, growing ever more intrigued by human ways—and especially by the oldest son, Irniq.
When Irniq grows older and sets out hunting on his own, he is surprised to enter his tent one day and find the lamp lit, the tea made… and a strange woman who says she is his wife. Tired of being alone, Irniq welcomes the woman. But soon he grows curious and cannot stop himself from asking too many questions. Where did the fox pelt hanging in their tent come from? And why did the fox that had been following him suddenly disappear?
Based on award-winning musician Beatrice Deer’s powerful song “Fox,” this graphic novel reinterprets a traditional Inuit story for a new generation.
Educator Information
Recommended Ages: 7-9.
Format: Graphic Novel
This book is available in French: La Femme-renard
Additional Information
30 pages | 9.00" x 7.50"
Strong Readers: Northern Titles from Inuk Author

Synopsis:
Level 3 - Back cover book introduction: This book is about a dog team. The dog in the front is the lead dog. The dogs in the team work together to pull a sled. What do you notice about these dogs?
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Strong Readers Northern Series. The Northern Series includes a mixture of fiction and non-fiction books that provide cultural reflections of the Inuit.
This is a Level 3 book in the series.
This resource is also available in French: Un attelage de chiens.
Additional Information
16 Pages | Dimensions: 6in x 9in | ISBN: 9781771740593


Synopsis:
Level 8 - Back cover book introduction: This book is about some of the animals that live in the Arctic. Look at the front cover of this book. How many animals do you see? Can you name them?
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Strong Readers Northern Series. The Northern Series includes a mixture of fiction and non-fiction books that provide cultural reflections of the Inuit.
This is a Level 8 book in the series.
This resource is also available in English: Les bébés animaux de l’Arctique.
Additional Information
16 Pages | Book Dimensions: 6in x 9in | ISBN: 9781771740609

Synopsis:
Level 15 - Back cover book introduction: As the winter snow begins to melt many different kinds of birds return to the north to build their nests. During the short Arctic summer their eggs hatch. The chicks grow quickly. They must be ready to fly south with their parents in the fall. Follow the return of the birds through the seasons.
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Strong Readers Northern Series. The Northern Series includes a mixture of fiction and non-fiction books that provide cultural reflections of the Inuit.
This is a Level 15 book in the series.
This resource is also available in French: Les oiseaux vont et viennent.
Additional Information
16 Pages | Book Dimensions: 6in x 9in | ISBN: 9781771740616

Synopsis:
Level 11 - Back cover book introduction: This book will show you how to build an igloo out of blocks of snow. Making the snow blocks the right size and shape is very important. The blocks are rectangular. How do you think that the author, Michael Kusugak, learned to build an igloo?
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Strong Readers Northern Series. The Northern Series includes a mixture of fiction and non-fiction books that provide cultural reflections of the Inuit.
This is a Level 11 book in the series.
This resource is also available in French: Je construis un iglou.
Additional Information
16 Pages | Book Dimensions: 6in x 9in | ISBN: 9781771740623

Synopsis:
Level 7 - Back cover book introduction: This book is about snow. There are many different kinds of snow in the north. What do you know about snow? What are some of the things that you can do in the snow?
Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Strong Readers Northern Series. The Northern Series includes a mixture of fiction and non-fiction books that provide cultural reflections of the Inuit.
This is a Level 7 book in the series.
This resource is also available in French: La neige.
Additional Information
16 Pages | Book Dimensions: 6in x 9in | ISBN: 9781771740630
Learning Environment Resources
Synopsis:
Dive into adventure with the Narwhal finger puppet, an arctic animal with a long protruding tooth that gives it the nickname “unicorn of the sea.”
Synopsis:
An important figure in folklore, mythology and literature from various cultures all over the world, this finger-sized Raven finger puppet is a perfect representation of the iconic bird.
Features:
- 7 inches long, 3 inches wide, 5.5 inches tall
Synopsis:
Out of hibernation and fresh from the den comes the newest Polar Bear Cub puppet. Heirloom design with soft plush fur, padded paws and a workable mouth, this cuddly glacial gladiator will easily find a warm place in your heart.
14 inches long, 8 inches wide, 7 inches tall