Reading Connections

1 - 15 of 58 Results;
Sort By
Go To   of 4
>

Welcome to Reading Connections!

Our thanks to Brenda Boreham for writing these fantastic lesson plans for Strong Nations!

Click on the SUB-CATEGORY to see each reading connection category. You will find several titles that have been selected to specifically to connect with teaching reading comprehension through the use of 6 learning strategies for both fiction and non-fiction. Some of the selected titles also include a free downloadable lesson plan.

Please visit our Educators page for more information.


Authentic Canadian Content
A Night in Fernwood Forest
Proudly Made in Canada
$21.95
Quantity:
Authors:
Artists:
Format: Hardcover
Grade Levels: Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3; 4;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781771746021

Synopsis:

Come with us for a walk along a secluded forest trail on a quiet night in May. We catch glimpses of ten animals as they move about in their woodland home from dusk until dawn. A mother cougar and her cub, a colony of bats, and a family of shrews are among the nighttime creatures we encounter. Beautiful full-page illustrations also depict many plants that live in this ecosystem. Information at the back of the book provides facts about nurse logs and the Pacific Northwest temperate rainforest.

A Night in Fernwood Forest is part of the By Day and By Night Nature Series. Books in this series focus on a specific habitat and explore the many connections within a healthy ecosystem. Through lyrical stories, supportive illustrations, labelled diagrams, and nature notes, readers learn about living and non-living parts of the ecosystem.

Additionally, readers can:

  • use a picture clue on each page to predict the animal featured on the next page
  • count animals as their numbers increase in each illustration
  • search for an animal that travels from page to page
  • discover patterns in the text and structure of each book
  • track the movement of the sun or moon across the sky

Reviews
"Brenda Boreham brings her teaching experience and love of nature to these books, filling them with opportunities for the discovery of interactions between plants and animals in healthy ecosystems…. This beautiful book will engage listeners and independent readers and support the science goals in elementary school classrooms." Canadian Teacher Magazine, Winter 2024 issue 

 
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for kindergarten to grade 4.
 
This is a fictional story with factual information about the Pacific Northwest temperate rainforest.
 
Search for a moth that travels from page to page in this story! 
 
Each book in the By Day and By Night Nature Series focuses on a scene typical of a distinct west coast habitat, showing how living and non-living things are connected in a healthy ecosystem. As readers, we observe animals going about their daily activities: caring for their young, searching for food, and responding to the changes in light, temperature, and weather conditions throughout the day or night. The last four pages of each book provide facts about the highlighted animals and plants as well as features that are unique to their habitats. The final page suggests ways that young readers and their families can be respectful as they visit wilderness areas.

Readers with a sense of curiosity will find opportunities in these books to:

  • use picture clues to predict the featured animal on the next page
  • identify, count, and sequence numbers (1 owl, 2 deer, 3 squirrels, etc.)
  • search for small creatures that travel from page to page
  • discover patterns in the text and structure of the books
  • track the movement of the sun, or moon, across the sky

Curriculum Links
Reading - Providing opportunities for guided practise in using reading strategies: visualizing, making connections, asking questions, transforming, and inferring.

Science - Supporting discussion and further exploration:

  • characteristics of living things
  • needs of living things
  • connections between living and non-living things
  • daily and seasonal changes
  • animal growth and changes
  • plant growth and changes
  • weather
  • habitats
  • observable patterns in the sky

Numeracy - Counting and sequencing of numbers 1 to 10.

Social Responsibility - Initiating discussions about ways to take care of wilderness areas.

 
Additional Information
32 Pages | 8.5" x 11" | Hardcover | ISBN: 9781771746021 
 

Authentic Canadian Content
By Day and By Night Nature Series Bundle
Proudly Made in Canada
$72.32 $80.35
Quantity:
Grade Levels: Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3; 4;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781771746014

Synopsis:

This bundle includes all four titles in the By Day and By Night Nature Series:

  • Hideaway Cove (hardcover)
  • A Night at Hideaway Cove (paperback) 
  • Fernwood Forest (hardcover)
  • A Night in Fernwood Forest (hardcover)

Each book in the By Day and By Night Nature Series focuses on a scene typical of a distinct west coast habitat, showing how living and non-living things are connected in a healthy ecosystem. As readers, we observe animals going about their daily activities: caring for their young, searching for food, and responding to the changes in light, temperature, and weather conditions throughout the day or night. The last four pages of each book provide facts about the highlighted animals and plants as well as features that are unique to their habitats. The final page suggests ways that young readers and their families can be respectful as they visit wilderness areas.

Readers with a sense of curiosity will find opportunities in these books to:

  • use picture clues to predict the featured animal on the next page
  • identify, count, and sequence numbers (1 owl, 2 deer, 3 squirrels, etc.)
  • search for small creatures that travel from page to page
  • discover patterns in the text and structure of the books
  • track the movement of the sun, or moon, across the sky

Reading Level: Nonfiction text features such as headings, bold words, bullets, captions, and labelled diagrams make these books accessible to independent readers in grades 2 to 4. The books would also be great “read-alouds” for younger children.

Curriculum Links
Reading - Providing opportunities for guided practise in using reading strategies: visualizing, making connections, asking questions, transforming, and inferring.

Science - Supporting discussion and further exploration:

  • characteristics of living things
  • needs of living things
  • connections between living and non-living things
  • daily and seasonal changes
  • animal growth and changes
  • plant growth and changes
  • weather
  • habitats
  • observable patterns in the sky

Numeracy - Counting and sequencing of numbers 1 to 10.

Social Responsibility - Initiating discussions about ways to take care of wilderness areas.

Lesson plans are available for each book and are free to download from each book's listing on our website!

Additional Information
Titles included are 32 pages, 8.5" x 11"

​Please note: All books in this bundle are hardcovers, except for A Night at Hideaway Cove, which is a paperback as the hardcover edition is out of print. ​

Authentic Canadian Content
Fernwood Forest
Proudly Made in Canada
$21.95
Quantity:
Authors:
Artists:
Format: Hardcover
Grade Levels: Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3; 4;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781771745994

Synopsis:

Join us on a bright, sunlit day in the middle of May as we wander the quiet trails of a secluded woodland. Here, we catch glimpses of the daily activities of many creatures—from a pair of black-tailed deer to a colony of carpenter ants—that make Fernwood Forest their home. We also learn about the three layers of the Pacific Northwest temperate rainforest and explore interesting facts about forest plants and animals.

Fernwood Forest is part of the By Day and By Night Nature Series. Books in this series focus on a specific habitat and explore the many connections within a healthy ecosystem. Through lyrical stories, supportive illustrations, labelled diagrams, and nature notes, readers learn about living and non-living parts of the ecosystem.

Additionally, readers can:

  • use a picture clue on each page to predict the animal featured on the next page

  • count animals as their numbers increase in each illustration

  • search for an animal that travels from page to page

  • discover patterns in the text and structure of each book

  • track the movement of the sun or moon across the sky

 
Educator & Series Information
Recommended for kindergarten to grade 4.
 
This is a fictional story with factual information about the Pacific Northwest temperate rainforest.
 
Search for a bee that travels from page to page in this story! 
 
Each book in the By Day and By Night Nature Series focuses on a scene typical of a distinct west coast habitat, showing how living and non-living things are connected in a healthy ecosystem. As readers, we observe animals going about their daily activities: caring for their young, searching for food, and responding to the changes in light, temperature, and weather conditions throughout the day or night. The last four pages of each book provide facts about the highlighted animals and plants as well as features that are unique to their habitats. The final page suggests ways that young readers and their families can be respectful as they visit wilderness areas.

Readers with a sense of curiosity will find opportunities in these books to:

  • use picture clues to predict the featured animal on the next page
  • identify, count, and sequence numbers (1 owl, 2 deer, 3 squirrels, etc.)
  • search for small creatures that travel from page to page
  • discover patterns in the text and structure of the books
  • track the movement of the sun, or moon, across the sky

Curriculum Links
Reading - Providing opportunities for guided practise in using reading strategies: visualizing, making connections, asking questions, transforming, and inferring.

Science - Supporting discussion and further exploration:

  • characteristics of living things
  • needs of living things
  • connections between living and non-living things
  • daily and seasonal changes
  • animal growth and changes
  • plant growth and changes
  • weather
  • habitats
  • observable patterns in the sky

Numeracy - Counting and sequencing of numbers 1 to 10.

Social Responsibility - Initiating discussions about ways to take care of wilderness areas.

 
Additional Information
32 Pages | 8.5" x 11" | Hardcover | ISBN: 9781771745994
 

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
A Coyote Solstice Tale (PB)
$12.99
Quantity:
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous;
Grade Levels: Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781773069128

Synopsis:

Trickster Coyote is having his friends over for a festive solstice get-together in the woods when a little girl comes by unexpectedly. She leads the party-goers through the snowy woods to a shopping mall -- a place they have never seen before.

Coyote gleefully shops with abandon, only to discover that filling your shopping cart with goodies is not quite the same thing as actually paying for them. The trickster is tricked and goes back to his cabin in the woods -- somewhat subdued -- though nothing can keep Coyote down for long.

Awards

  • Winner of the American Indian Library Association Youth Literature Awards, Best Picture Book

Reviews
"The humor is dry and affectionate, the rhyming text delights with sly turns of phrase, the watercolor cartoons are whimsical … [A] holiday treat." — School Library Journal

"This witty winter tale deftly skewers the materialistic aspect of the holiday season in a humorous, trenchant way." — Kirkus Reviews

Educator Information
Recommended Ages: 5 - 8.

Curriculum Connections: Social Studies, Geography, Physical Education and Health, Science.

Correlates to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts:

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.

Additional Information
64 pages | 5.25" x 7.75" | Paperback

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
A Promise Is a Promise: 30th Anniversary Edition
$7.95
Quantity:
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; Inuit;
Grade Levels: Preschool; Kindergarten; 1; 2;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781773212937

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"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Gaawin Gindaaswin Ndaawsii / I Am Not A Number
$14.95
Quantity:
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; First Nations; Anishinaabeg; Ojibway;
Grade Levels: 2; 3; 4; 5; 6;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781772600995

Synopsis:

Dual language edition of powerful children's book about residential school experience reflects Indigenous language revitalization.

The dual language edition, in Nishnaabemwin (Ojibwe) Nbisiing dialect and English, of the award-winning I Am Not a Number. When eight-year-old Irene is removed from her First Nations family to live in a residential school she is confused, frightened, and terribly homesick. She tries to remember who she is and where she came from, despite the efforts of the nuns who are in charge at the school and who tell her that she is not to use her own name but instead use the number they have assigned to her. When she goes home for summer holidays, Irene's parents decide never to send her and her brothers away again. But where will they hide? And what will happen when her parents disobey the law? Based on the life of co-author Jenny Kay Dupuis’ grandmother, I Am Not a Number is a hugely necessary book that brings a terrible part of Canada’s history to light in a way that children can learn from and relate to.

Reviews
"Residential and boarding school stories are hard to read, but they're vitally important... books like I Am Not a Number should be taught in schools in Canada, and the U.S., too."— Debbie Reese, American Indians in Children's Literature

"It’s important to teach children about true Canadian history, but it’s not easy to talk about it in a way that children will understand. I Am Not a Number is perfect to get the conversation about residential schools started with your children. It opens the door for them to ask questions about the subject and the story is relatable in a way they can follow."— Residential School Magazine

Educator Information
Recommended Ages: 7-11
Guided Reading: V

Dual-language: Nishnaabemwin (Ojibwe) Nbisiing dialect and English.

Subjects: Character Education (Empathy, Prejudice & Tolerance); History & Social Studies (Canadian History, First Nations & Indigenous Peoples); Government & Citizenship; Reflecting Diversity

This resource is also available in English: I Am Not a Number.

This resource is also available in French: Je ne suis pas un numero.

Additional Information
44 pages | 8.50" x 11.00" | Translated by Muriel Sawyer and Geraldine McLeod with contributions by Tory Fisher

 

Authentic Canadian Content
A Night at Hideaway Cove (PB)
Proudly Made in Canada
$14.50
Quantity:
Available as an iBook
Authors:
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3; 4;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781771743303

Synopsis:

Come with us, on a mid-August night, to a secluded beach on the Pacific Northwest Coast. There we will meet many creatures that make Hideaway Cove their home. From the black bear to the tiniest beach hopper, we will catch a glimpse of their night-time activities. We will also learn how the moon affects the tides, and explore the intertidal zones. 

A Night at Hideaway Cove is a sequel to Hideaway Cove, another exploration of the Pacific Northwest Coast during the daytime. Written by Brenda Boreham, and illustrated by Laura Timmermans, both books share with us the many interconnections within a healthy marine ecosystem.
 
Reviews
"There are many thoughtful and charming details in both the text and illustrations, such as the moon’s movement across the sky in Laura’s illustrations and the subtle introduction of numbers as the narrative progresses. The moon is a large focus of the story—children will learn about how it affects the tides and what this means for beach creatures like raccoons, who are able to forage for an easy meal amongst the heaps of seaweed left along the shoreline as the tide goes out…. A Night at Hideaway Cove is sure to both delight and inform young readers." Canadian Teacher Magazine, Winter 2019 issue 
 
Educator & Series Information
Each book in the By Day and By Night Nature Series focuses on a scene typical of a distinct west coast habitat, showing how living and non-living things are connected in a healthy ecosystem. As readers, we observe animals going about their daily activities: caring for their young, searching for food, and responding to the changes in light, temperature, and weather conditions throughout the day or night. The last four pages of each book provide facts about the highlighted animals and plants as well as features that are unique to their habitats. The final page suggests ways that young readers and their families can be respectful as they visit wilderness areas.

Readers with a sense of curiosity will find opportunities in these books to:

  • use picture clues to predict the featured animal on the next page
  • identify, count, and sequence numbers (1 owl, 2 deer, 3 squirrels, etc.)
  • search for small creatures that travel from page to page
  • discover patterns in the text and structure of the books
  • track the movement of the sun, or moon, across the sky

Curriculum Links
Reading - Providing opportunities for guided practise in using reading strategies: visualizing, making connections, asking questions, transforming, and inferring.

Science - Supporting discussion and further exploration:

  • characteristics of living things
  • needs of living things
  • connections between living and non-living things
  • daily and seasonal changes
  • animal growth and changes
  • plant growth and changes
  • weather
  • habitats
  • observable patterns in the sky

Numeracy - Counting and sequencing of numbers 1 to 10.

Social Responsibility - Initiating discussions about ways to take care of wilderness areas.

 
Search for a mouse that travels from page to page in this story! 
 
Creative Nonfiction: A fictional story with factual information about the Pacific Northwest Coast, as well backmatter that delivers scientific information about the moon, intertidal zones, and seashore creatures.
 
Additional Information
32 pages | ISBN: 9781771743303 | Paperback

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Authentic Indigenous Artwork
When We Were Alone
$21.95
Quantity:
Format: Hardcover
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; First Nations; Cree (Nehiyawak);
Grade Levels: Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3; 10; 11;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781553796732

Synopsis:

When a young girl helps tend to her grandmother’s garden, she begins to notice things that make her curious. Why does her grandmother have long, braided hair and beautifully coloured clothing? Why does she speak another language and spend so much time with her family? As she asks her grandmother about these things, she is told about life in a residential school a long time ago, where all of these things were taken away. When We Were Alone is a story about a difficult time in history, and, ultimately, one of empowerment and strength.

Reviews
"When We Were Alone is rare. It is exquisite and stunning, for the power conveyed by the words Robertson wrote, and for the illustrations that Flett created. I highly recommend it." — Debbie Reese, American Indians in Children's Literature.

"…Robertson handles a delicate task here admirably well: explaining residential schools, that shameful legacy, and making them understandable to small children. It’s a dark history, and the author doesn’t disguise that, but he wisely focuses the grandmother’s tale on how, season by season, the students use creativity, imagination, and patience to retain their sense of identity. A beautifully quiet, bold strength arises from the continued refrain “When we were alone” and in how the children insisted on being themselves. Flett’s gorgeous, skillful illustrations have a flattened, faux naïve feel to them, like construction paper collage, a style that works perfectly with the story. She nicely contrasts the school’s dull browns and grays with the riotous colors surrounding Nókom and gets much expression from her simple silhouettes. Spare, poetic, and moving, this Cree heritage story makes a powerful impression." — Kirkus Reviews

"When We Were Alone addresses the topic of residential schools and, just as importantly, aspects of Cree culture and language. There is such gentleness about When We Were Alone that makes it an appropriate book for the even youngest of readers. Simply put, this is a much-needed book. Highly Recommended." — Dr. Kristen Ferguson, CM Magazine

"Robertson's text moves between the present and the past, the girl's questions and Nókom's memories, which deepen and intensify the quiet, powerful way she lives out her own culture, day by day, in the present. A beautifully rendered story of resisitance and love, this is made all the more luminous by Flett's art - not just by flashes of fuschsia or scarlet among ochre grasses, but by her precisely observed images of the compact bodies of the uniformed children, bowed beneath the weight of the scissors, or lovingly tending each other's hair. Highly recommended." — Deirdre Baker, Toronto Star

"When We Were Alone is a story about finding the strength to push forward when everything is against you. It follows a young girl asking her grandmother questions to learn more about her past. The grandmother shares her experience of a time when she was unable to make her own decisions and how she got through it." — The Dalai Lama Center

Educator Information
Recommended Grades: 3 and under.

Grades 10-11 BC English First Peoples resource for the unit First Steps - Exploring Residential School and Reconciliation through Children's Literature.

This book is also available in Swampy Cree syllabics and Roman orthography, as well as the original English: Ispík kákí péyakoyak/When We Were Alone

This resource is also available in French: Quand on etait seuls

Additional Information
24 pages | 8.50" x 7.50" | colour illustrations 

Authentic Canadian Content
Hideaway Cove (PB)
Proudly Made in Canada
$14.50
Quantity:
Available as an iBook
Authors:
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3; 4;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781771741330

Synopsis:

Join us on a mid August day, on the wild and rocky shores of the Pacific Northwest Coast. From the orca to the tiniest barnacle, enjoy a colourful glimpse into the lives of the many creatures that live in, and around, Hideaway Cove.

Brenda Boreham and Laura Timmermans share with us, through words and illustrations, the many interconnections within a healthy marine eco-system.

Reviews
"Hideaway Cove is a must-have when teaching a seashore ecosystem unit. This book provides opportunities for students to share their connections with the seashore while they learn more about the interactions within the marine ecosystem.” – Cindy Haack, Canadian Teacher Magazine 

Hideaway Cove is a delightful, information-packed picture book that takes children through a day in the life of a west coast cove. Here, humans are noticeably absent, and the diverse plants and animals tell a wonderful tale. Brenda Boreham’s text is lyrical and rich in detail.” – Sheryl McFarlane, Hakai Magazine 

Educator & Series Information
Each book in the By Day and By Night Nature Series focuses on a scene typical of a distinct west coast habitat, showing how living and non-living things are connected in a healthy ecosystem. As readers, we observe animals going about their daily activities: caring for their young, searching for food, and responding to the changes in light, temperature, and weather conditions throughout the day or night. The last four pages of each book provide facts about the highlighted animals and plants as well as features that are unique to their habitats. The final page suggests ways that young readers and their families can be respectful as they visit wilderness areas.

Readers with a sense of curiosity will find opportunities in these books to:

  • use picture clues to predict the featured animal on the next page
  • identify, count, and sequence numbers (1 owl, 2 deer, 3 squirrels, etc.)
  • search for small creatures that travel from page to page
  • discover patterns in the text and structure of the books
  • track the movement of the sun, or moon, across the sky

Curriculum Links
Reading - Providing opportunities for guided practise in using reading strategies: visualizing, making connections, asking questions, transforming, and inferring.

Science - Supporting discussion and further exploration:

  • characteristics of living things
  • needs of living things
  • connections between living and non-living things
  • daily and seasonal changes
  • animal growth and changes
  • plant growth and changes
  • weather
  • habitats
  • observable patterns in the sky

Numeracy - Counting and sequencing of numbers 1 to 10.

Social Responsibility - Initiating discussions about ways to take care of wilderness areas.

Search for a crab that travels from page to page in this story! 

Additional Information
32 Pages | ISBN: 9781771741330 | Paperback

Authentic Canadian Content
Hideaway Cove (HC)
Proudly Made in Canada
$21.95
Quantity:
Available as an iBook
Authors:
Artists:
Format: Hardcover
Grade Levels: Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3; 4;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781771741347

Synopsis:

Join us on a mid August day, on the wild and rocky shores of the Pacific Northwest Coast. From the orca to the tiniest barnacle, enjoy a colourful glimpse into the lives of the many creatures that live in, and around, Hideaway Cove.

Brenda Boreham and Laura Timmermans share with us, through words and illustrations, the many interconnections within a healthy marine eco-system.

Reviews
"Hideaway Cove is a must-have when teaching a seashore ecosystem unit. This book provides opportunities for students to share their connections with the seashore while they learn more about the interactions within the marine ecosystem.” – Cindy Haack, Canadian Teacher Magazine 

Hideaway Cove is a delightful, information-packed picture book that takes children through a day in the life of a west coast cove. Here, humans are noticeably absent, and the diverse plants and animals tell a wonderful tale. Brenda Boreham’s text is lyrical and rich in detail.” – Sheryl McFarlane, Hakai Magazine 

Educator & Series Information

Each book in the By Day and By Night Nature Series focuses on a scene typical of a distinct west coast habitat, showing how living and non-living things are connected in a healthy ecosystem. As readers, we observe animals going about their daily activities: caring for their young, searching for food, and responding to the changes in light, temperature, and weather conditions throughout the day or night. The last four pages of each book provide facts about the highlighted animals and plants as well as features that are unique to their habitats. The final page suggests ways that young readers and their families can be respectful as they visit wilderness areas.

Readers with a sense of curiosity will find opportunities in these books to:

  • use picture clues to predict the featured animal on the next page
  • identify, count, and sequence numbers (1 owl, 2 deer, 3 squirrels, etc.)
  • search for small creatures that travel from page to page
  • discover patterns in the text and structure of the books
  • track the movement of the sun, or moon, across the sky

Curriculum Links
Reading - Providing opportunities for guided practise in using reading strategies: visualizing, making connections, asking questions, transforming, and inferring.

Science - Supporting discussion and further exploration:

  • characteristics of living things
  • needs of living things
  • connections between living and non-living things
  • daily and seasonal changes
  • animal growth and changes
  • plant growth and changes
  • weather
  • habitats
  • observable patterns in the sky

Numeracy - Counting and sequencing of numbers 1 to 10.

Social Responsibility - Initiating discussions about ways to take care of wilderness areas.

Search for a crab that travels from page to page in this story! 

Additional Information
32 Pages | ISBN" 9781771741347 | Hardcover

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
I Am Not a Number
$19.95
Quantity:
Artists:
Format: Hardcover
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; First Nations; Anishinaabeg; Ojibway;
Grade Levels: 2; 3; 4; 5; 6;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781927583944

Synopsis:

When eight-year-old Irene is removed from her First Nations family to live in a residential school she is confused, frightened, and terribly homesick. She tries to remember who she is and where she came from, despite the efforts of the nuns who are in charge at the school and who tell her that she is not to use her own name but instead use the number they have assigned to her. When she goes home for summer holidays, Irene's parents decide never to send her and her brothers away again. But where will they hide? And what will happen when her parents disobey the law? Based on the life of co-author Jenny Kay Dupuis’ grandmother, I Am Not a Number is a hugely necessary book that brings a terrible part of Canada’s history to light in a way that children can learn from and relate to.

Awards

  • 2018 Red Cedar Award for Information Book Winner
  • 2018 Hackmatack Award Winner

Reviews
"Residential and boarding school stories are hard to read, but they're vitally important... books like I Am Not a Number should be taught in schools in Canada, and the U.S., too."— Debbie Reese, American Indians in Children's Literature

"It’s important to teach children about true Canadian history, but it’s not easy to talk about it in a way that children will understand. I Am Not a Number is perfect to get the conversation about residential schools started with your children. It opens the door for them to ask questions about the subject and the story is relatable in a way they can follow."— Residential School Magazine

"[A] powerful teaching tool that brings a terrible part of Canada’s history to light in a way that children can learn from and relate to. It is written in simple language and told in a way that will stimulate conversations about residential schools and the traumatic effects they have had on generations of First Nation families and communities. ... beautifully illustrated by Gillian Newland. She captures the somber mood of the school, the anguish of the children, the severity of the nuns and the desperation of the family. Students can easily empathize with Irene and her brothers as well as their parents as they try to imagine how they would feel or act in a similar situation." — Alberta Native News, December 2016

"Endless cross-curricular connections can be made using this story. But the most powerful aspect of this book is that it will open a dialogue, one that Justice Murray Sinclair spoke of as head of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, a dialogue that needs to take place for reconciliation to happen." — ETFO Voice

Educator Information
Recommended Ages: 7-11
Guided Reading: V

This resource is also available in a dual-language format (English and Nishnaabemwin (Ojibwe) Nbisiing dialect): Gaawin Gindaaswin Ndaawsii / I Am Not A Number.

This resource is also available in French: Je ne suis pas un numero

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.50" x 11.00"

 

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Authentic Indigenous Artwork
Strong Stories Kanyen’keha:ka: The Game
Proudly Made in Canada
$9.95
Quantity:
Available as an iBook
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: 2; 3; 4;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781771741187

Synopsis:

The animals and the birds are getting ready for a game of lacrosse. Bat would love to play but neither team wants him because he is different than them. This Kanyen'kehà:ka (Gan-yeh-ga-ha-ga) story is about how we all have a special talent that we must respect in others. The book also includes information about lacrosse. The Kanyen'kehà:ka is one of Six Nations that together are the Haudenosaunee.

Educator & Series Information
The Game is part of the Strong Stories: Kanyen’kehà:ka series. Strong Stories focus on different First Nation territories from across Canada and the United States. These stories reflect the belief that our stories are the roots of our people, our lands and our cultures. It is from our stories that we grow and become strong and proud.

This resource is also available in French: La partie.

Additional Information
16 pages | 6.00" x 9.00" | ISBN: 9781771741187

 

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Strong Stories Coast Salish: Taking Care of Our Mother Earth
Proudly Made in Canada
$9.95
Quantity:
Available as an iBook
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: 2; 3; 4;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781771741286

Synopsis:

In this Coast Salish story, it is explained how each family played a traditional role in taking care of our Mother Earth. From controlled burning to ethical hunting and fishing practices, the Coast Salish people were, and still are, taught by their elders to respect Mother Earth.

Educator & Series Information
Taking Care of Our Mother Earth is part of the Strong Stories: Coast Salish series. Strong Stories focus on different First Nation territories from across Canada and the United States. These stories reflect the belief that our stories are the roots of our people, our lands and our cultures. It is from our stories that we grow and become strong and proud.

This resource is also available in French: Prendre soin de notre Terre-Mère.

Additional Information
16 pages | 6.00" x 9.00" | ISBN: 9781771741286

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Authentic Indigenous Artwork
From the Mountains to the Sea: We Live Here
Proudly Made in Canada
$29.95
Quantity:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian;
Grade Levels: Kindergarten;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781771741019

Synopsis:

Each book in the series, From the Mountains to the Sea, supports the new BC Aboriginal Learning Standards in both Science and Social Studies.

From the Mountains to the Sea: We Live Here is a Kindergarten resource, which covers all of your Aboriginal Learning Standards in both science and social studies within the new BC curriculum.

Click link to download a five-week Kindergarten planning guide: Kindergarten FREE Download for We Live Here

Back of book introduction:
This book is about a river. Can you find a river on the front cover of this book? What do you know about rivers?

Most rivers start high up in the mountains. As the water comes down the hill, it makes little pathways in the rocks and gravel. As the pathways get bigger, they join to make streams. Sometimes the streams join together to make a river. Where a river leaves the mountains the ground flattens out, and the river slows down. The river ends when it flows into the sea.

The area in and around a river is a good place for plants, animals and people to live because we can all find food and water there. The salmon is an important food for many of us.

Some of the plants and animals that you will find in this book are:

  • Cedar trees live and grow all the way along a river, from the mountains to the sea.
  • Salmon spend their adult lives out in the open sea. When it is time to lay their eggs, they swim back to their home streams. Their home streams are sometimes very close to the mountains.
  • Bears walk long distances to find their food. They live from the mountains to the sea. In the fall they go to the rivers to fish for salmon.
  • Eagles fly over large areas looking for food. They live from the mountains to the sea. In the fall, they go to the rivers to feast on salmon.
  • Orcas live in the open sea. They swim long distances to hunt for food. Some orcas eat salmon. 

This book is also part of a bundled package: From the Mountains to the Sea: We Live Here Bundle

This resource is available in French: Collection Des montagnes à la mer: Nous habitons ici 

Additional Information
Book dimensions: 10" x 14" | Pages: 16 | ISBN: 9781771741019

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
What is Truth, Betsy?
$9.95
Quantity:
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; First Nations; Anishinaabeg;
Grade Levels: Preschool; Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781553795254

Synopsis:

Miskwaadesi is puzzled about the teaching Truth. But she knows more than she thinks she does.

Educator Information
What is Truth, Betsy? is a part of the series The Seven Teachings Stories. The Seven Teachings of the Anishinaabe—love, wisdom, humility, courage, respect, honesty, and truth—are revealed in seven stories for children. Set in urban landscapes, Indigenous children tell familiar stories about home, school, and community.

Recommended for ages 4 to 8.

This resource is also available in French: Qu'est-ce que la verite, Betsy ?: Une histoire sur la vérité 

Additional Information
24 pages | 6.00" x 8.00"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Misaabe's Stories
$9.95
Quantity:
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; First Nations; Anishinaabeg;
Grade Levels: Preschool; Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781553795247

Synopsis:

Misaabe tells great stories – about trolls, and x-ray glasses, and secret agents, and his super-exciting life. But is real life so bad?

Educator Information
Misaabe's Stories is part of the series The Seven Teaching Stories. The Seven Teachings of the Anishinaabe—love, wisdom, humility, courage, respect, honesty, and truth—are revealed in seven stories for children. Set in urban landscapes, Indigenous children tell familiar stories about home, school, and community.

This resource is also available in French: Les Histoires de Misaabe: Une histoire sur l'honnetete

Additional Information
24 pages | 6.00" x 8.00"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Singing Sisters
$9.95
Quantity:
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; First Nations; Anishinaabeg;
Grade Levels: Preschool; Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781553795209

Synopsis:

Ma'iingan knows she is a very good singer. Conflict erupts when her little sister wants to sing just like her.

Singing Sisters is one book in The Seven Teachings Stories series. The Seven Teachings of the Anishinaabe—love, wisdom, humility, courage, respect, honesty, and truth—are revealed in seven stories for children. Set in urban landscapes, Indigenous children tell familiar stories about home, school, and community.

Educator & Series Information
This book is part of The Seven Teachings Stories series, which are inspired by the Seven Sacred Teachings of the Anishinaabe—love, wisdom, humility, courage, respect, honesty, and truth. These stories are set in urban landscapes, where Indigenous children tell familiar stories about home, school, and community.

This resource is also available in French: Deux soeurs en harmonie : Une histoire sur l'humilité

Additional Information
24 pages | 6.00" x 8.00"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Amik Loves School
$9.95
Quantity:
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; First Nations; Anishinaabeg;
Grade Levels: Preschool; Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781553795230

Synopsis:

Amik tells Moshoom about his wonderful school. Then his grandfather tells him about the residential school he went to, much different from Amik’s school. So Amik has an idea….

Amik Loves School is one book in The Seven Teachings Stories series.The Seven Teachings of the Anishinaabe—love, wisdom, humility, courage, respect, honesty, and truth—are revealed in seven stories for children. Set in urban landscapes, Indigenous children tell familiar stories about home, school, and community.

Educator Information
Find the French translation of this book here: Amik aime l'ecole.

This book is part of The Seven Teachings Stories series, which are inspired by the Seven Sacred Teachings of the Anishinaabe—love, wisdom, humility, courage, respect, honesty, and truth. These stories are set in urban landscapes, where Indigenous children tell familiar stories about home, school, and community.

Additional Information
24 pages | 6.00" x 8.00"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
The First Day
$9.95
Quantity:
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; First Nations; Anishinaabeg;
Grade Levels: Preschool; Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781553795216

Synopsis:

Makwa has to go to a new school … and he doesn’t want to. How will he face his first day?

Educator & Series Information
The First Day is a book in the series The Seven Teachings Stories. The Seven Teachings of the Anishinaabe—love, wisdom, humility, courage, respect, honesty, and truth—are revealed in seven stories for children. Set in urban landscapes, Indigenous children tell familiar stories about home, school, and community.

This resource is also available in French: Le Premier jour: Une histoire sur le courage

Selected for inclusion in the Spring 2015 edition of Best Books for Kids & Teens (BBKT) by the Canadian Children's Book Centre.

Additional Information
24 pages | 6.00" x 8.00"

 

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
The Just Right Gift
$9.95
Quantity:
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; First Nations; Anishinaabeg;
Grade Levels: Preschool; Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781553795193

Synopsis:

Selected for inclusion in the Spring 2015 edition of Best Books for Kids & Teens (BBKT) by the Canadian Children's Book Centre.

Migisi loves his Gookom. Can he find the perfect gift to show her how much?

Educator & Series Information
The Just Right Gift is one book in The Seven Teachings Stories series. The Seven Teachings of the Anishinaabe—love, wisdom, humility, courage, respect, honesty, and truth—are revealed in seven stories for children. Set in urban landscapes, Indigenous children tell familiar stories about home, school, and community.

This resource is also available in French: Le cadeau parfait : Une histoire sur l'amour 

Additional Information
24 pages | 6.00" x 8.00"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Kode's Quest(ion)
$9.95
Quantity:
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; First Nations; Anishinaabeg;
Grade Levels: Preschool; Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781553795223

Synopsis:

Selected for inclusion in the Spring 2015 edition of Best Books for Kids & Teens (BBKT) by the Canadian Children's Book Centre.

Kode knows many things, but she doesn’t know one thing: What does respect mean? Who will help her figure out the answer?

Educator & Series Information
Kode's Quest(ion) is one book in The Seven Teachings Stories series. The Seven Teachings of the Anishinaabe—love, wisdom, humility, courage, respect, honesty, and truth—are revealed in seven stories for children. Set in urban landscapes, Indigenous children tell familiar stories about home, school, and community.

This book is also available in French: La quête de Kode : Une histoire sur le respect

Additional Information
24 pages | 6.00" x 8.00"

 

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Authentic Indigenous Artwork
Mouse Celebrates the Winter Solstice
Proudly Made in Canada
$16.50
Quantity:
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: Preschool; Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781771740555

Synopsis:

It is winter. The land lies still, quiet and stark beneath a blanket of snow. The tiny footprints of a mouse can be seen in the light of the moon.

"Wrapped in the quiet, and there in the bleak, there stood a wise mouse, preparing to speak."

The words that mouse chose were from many years past. She spoke them into the cold night air. So begins the enchanting story of a very special Winter Solstice celebration.

Kwakwaka’wakw author Terri Mack and Tsimshian artist Bill Helin have collaborated to bring us this story of strength, friendship and celebration. The lyrical text and engaging illustrations will appeal to readers of all ages.

Author's note:
Gila'kasla!
I spent a year writing and rewriting this poem to be sure to convey the message clearly to my audience. It was important to me that the poem reflect the importance of us all joining together to find the sacredness in celebration, the joy of belonging within a greater community and the voice of determination inside of each of us. Inspired by Indigenous Peoples rising, healing and joining together I hope that this poem inspires our youth to be strong and determined in all their future goals.
~Terri Mack

Additional Information
24 pages | 9" x 12" | ISBN: 9781771740555 | Paperback

Feathers and Fools (4 in Stock) - ON SALE
$8.80 $10.99
Quantity:
Authors:
Mem Fox
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: Kindergarten; 1; 2;
ISBN / Barcode: 9780152023652

Synopsis:

Feathers and Fools is an allegory about how wars can begin with a simple fear of others based on misconceptions. For some time the swans and peacocks have lived peacefully by a pond. One day the peacocks begin to contemplate the differences between themselves and their neighbours. This then leads to the fear that the swans may one day change the peacock's way of life. With this fear fully ingrained in their minds, they begin to build arms against their neighbours. "We shall hurl these arrows at their throats and slaughter everyone should they ever try to change our way of life."

Upon hearing this, the swans began to build arms against the peacocks in fear that they would be attacked. The fear grew as each group acquired more and more arms against each other. The peacocks soon mistook the action of a swan as an act of aggression and thus, a war began. "Soon cries filled the sir and blood darkened the earth." When all the feathers had settled, there were no birds to be found, both swans and peacocks had been destroyed.

Fox's antiwar story touches on a common issue many nations face and how humans handle the concept of war. As history has revealed, humans have begun wars oftentimes with very little knowledge of their opponents on the battlefield. The author artfully displays how mankind, although similar in many ways can decimate each other because of our lack of knowledge of the similarities amongst all groups. At the end of the story, Fox gives us a hopeful ending with the hatching of a lone peacock and a lone swan. These young birds meet and notice how similar they are and soon become friends. "So off they went together, in peace and unafraid, to face the day and share the world." Fox recognizes that present and future generations hold the keys to ending war.

The main characters, swans and peacocks are interchangeable with any nation, country, or people who have endured wars and their aftermaths. The book also emphasizes the importance of learning from history and not repeating it. Illustrator Nicholas Wiltons paintings bring out the beauty of the worlds of the peacock and swan. With acrylic jewel tone paints, he captures the beauty of the peacocks bright feathers and the swans graceful profile. As the story progresses, you can see the changes of the birds body language and actions helping bring emphasis on how the building toward war changes reactions and opinions of the two sides. The paintings were created to evoke the feeling of a folktale or fable with its aged looks and block style borders. Feathers and Fools is a wonderful book that could open the possibility for the discussion of topics such as war, the arms race, and similarities amongst people and their ways of lives. This book could be used at all levels for discussion.

Educator Information
This resource is also available in French: Plumes et prises de bec

Additional Information
36 pages | 11.00" x 8.50"

Authentic Indigenous Text
Great Writers from our First Nations
$10.95
Quantity:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous American; Indigenous Canadian;
Grade Levels: 4; 5; 6; 7; 8; 9;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781926920856

Synopsis:

A celebration of ten writers who have challenged stereotypes, told history from a perspective often silenced, and entertained millions of readers.

Included is author Louise Erdrich, whose novel Love Medicine was the first in an award-winning series about the lives of several generations of Ojibwa families. Sherman Alexie, author of the semi-autobiographical The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, went on to win the National Book Award. Tomson Highway broke new ground with his play The Rez Sisters. Joseph Boyden based his novel Three Day Road in part on his grandfather’s experience fighting in the First World War. N. Scott Momaday re-wrote the history of the American West with his book House Made of Dawn. Nicola Campbell drew on her family’s experience of residential schools to write the children’s books Shi-shi-etko and Shin-chi’s Canoe. Also included are Marilyn Dumont (A Really Good Brown Girl), Tim Tingle (Walking the Choctaw Road), Joseph Bruchac (Buffalo Song), and Maria Campbell (Half-breed).

The full list of writers profiled:

• Sherman Alexie (Spokane/Coeur d’Alene, Washington) - The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian
• Louise Erdrich (Ojibwa, North Dakota) - Love Medicine (the Argus Series)
• Joseph Boyden (Cree/Métis, Ontario) - Three Day Road
• N. Scott Momaday (Kiowa/Cherokee, Oklahoma) - House Made of Dawn
• Marilyn Dumont (Cree/Métis, Alberta) - A Really Good Brown Girl
• Tomson Highway (Cree, Manitoba) - The Rez Sisters
• Joseph Bruchac (Abenaki, New York State) - Buffalo Song
• Maria Campbell (Métis, Saskatchewan) - Halfbreed
• Nicola Campbell (Interior Salish/Métis, Alberta) - Shin-chi’s Canoe
• Tim Tingle (Choctaw, Texas) - Walking the Choctaw Road

Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the First Nations Series for Young Readers. Each book is a collection of biographies of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit women and men who are leaders in their fields of work, in their art, and in their communities. 

For ages 9-14.

Additional Information 
128 pages | 6.00" x 9.00"

Authentic Canadian Content
Exploring the World of Coyotes
$6.95
Quantity:
Authors:
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: 4; 5; 6; 7;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781554077960

Synopsis:

Coyotes are wily, secretive and extremely adaptive -- what young reader wouldn't be fascinated?

Familiar to kids and adults alike through its many appearances in folk and popular culture, the multicolored coyote has the gray wolf to thank for its survival. As humans eliminated wolf populations across the continent over the last century, the coyote easily filled the gap. Today it is the most successful and most numerous large predator in North America. It makes its homes not only in the wild but increasingly in suburbs and even urban centers -- the coyote is wary of humans but is quite willing to enter the human world in pursuit of food.

The coyote has a curious blend of characteristics that it shares with its dog-family relatives, the wolf and the red fox. Like the red fox, it has graceful, catlike movements. Like the wolf, it can hunt in packs but may also hunt on its own or with a partner.

Exploring the World of Coyotes explains how the wily coyote achieved such great success, from its elaborate communication skills, mate selection and family life to its adaptive life skills and physical characteristics.

Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the "Exploring the World of..." series, a nature series produced especially for young readers who are eager to learn more about the wild animals they find especially appealing. The books are packed with facts and offer outstanding value. Clear text in large type and vivid photographs with explanatory captions describe the animals' physical attributes, and storylike narratives about their daily life -- where they live, what they eat, how they hunt, how they communicate, how they raise their young -- present a complete picture of each animal.

Additional Information
24 pages | 8.00" x 8.00"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Shannen and the Dream for a School
$16.95
Quantity:
Authors:
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: 5; 6; 7; 8; 9;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781926920306

Synopsis:

This is the true story of Shannen Koostachin and the people of Attawapiskat, a Cree community in Northern Ontario, who have been fighting for a new school since 1979, when a fuel spill contaminated their original school building.

It is 2008, and thirteen-year-old Shannen and the other students at J.R. Nakogee Elementary are tired of attending class in portables that smell and don’t keep out the freezing cold winter air. They make a YouTube video describing the poor conditions, and their plea for a decent school gains them attention and support from community leaders and children across the country. Inspired, the students decide to turn their grade-eight class trip into a visit to Ottawa, to speak to the Canadian government. Once there, Shannen speaks passionately to the politicians about the need to give Native children the opportunity to succeed. The following summer, Shannen is nominated for the International Children’s Peace Prize. Her passion and that of the other students makes politicians stand up and take notice, and becomes a rallying point for the community and for the country.

Shannen will never see her dream fulfilled. Tragically, she was killed in a car crash in 2010. Her family, friends, and supporters are continuing to fight and to honor her memory as they work for equality for children in communities everywhere.

Awards
- In 2012-2013 Shannen and the Dream for a School was the award recipient for First Nation Communities Read.

Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Kids' Power Series.

Recommended for ages 9 to 13.

Authenticity Note: This book has received the Authentic Indigenous Text label as it is written by Janet Wilson with the participation and support of members of the Attawapiskat community.

Authentic Indigenous Text
Environmentalists from our First Nations
$10.95
Quantity:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous American; Indigenous Canadian;
Grade Levels: 4; 5; 6; 7; 8; 9;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781897187982

Synopsis:

Like the other books in the First Nations Series for Young Readers, this book offers ten short and engaging biographies of First Nations/Native activists who advocate not only for the environment but for Native rights. Their stories are full of highs and lows, triumphs and setbacks. Environmental trailblazers, these men and women are role models for children everywhere.

The men and women profiled here are united by their work to protect the environment and to support indigenous rights. Their stories take us from the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska to the Black Mesa in Arizona.

Melina Laboucan-Massimo uses her passion to stop oil extraction in Alberta’s tar sands.
Winona LaDuke is a voice for reclaiming Native lands, advocating renewable energy resources, and protecting Native cultures.
Clayton Thomas-Muller is a dynamic advocate for indigenous self-determination and campaigner against tar sands extraction.
Ben Powless brings his youthful energy and skills to addressing climate change issues.
Tom Goldtooth protects sacred sites and organizes global direct-action campaigns for the environment.
Grace Thorpe is a grandmother who dedicated her retirement years to keeping Native reservations from becoming nuclear waste dumps.
Sarah James is a voice from northern Alaska defending the Porcupine caribou herd and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
Enei Begaye & Evon Peter are married activists who work as a team on environmental issues and sustainable strategies for Native people.
Klee Benally uses the media to empower Native communities in their fight for environmental justice.
Teague Allston works to ensure a tribal voice is heard in Washington DC.

Reviews
"These short biographies of environmentalists are sure to engage a whole classroom of readers. From the focus on a particular environmental crisis, to a description of each person's native heritage, to the writing style and level, the stories are accessible to readers young and old." — Canadian Teacher Magazine, March 2012

Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the First Nations Series for Young Readers. Each book is a collection of biographies of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit women and men who are leaders in their fields of work, in their art, and in their communities. For ages 9-14.

Additional Information
128 pages | 6.00" x 9.00"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Shi-shi-etko
$19.99
Quantity:
Artists:
Format: Hardcover
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian;
Grade Levels: 1; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6; 7; 8; 9; 10;
ISBN / Barcode: 9780888996596

Synopsis:

In just four days young Shi-shi-etko will have to leave her family and all that she knows to attend residential school.

She spends her last days at home treasuring the beauty of her world -- the dancing sunlight, the tall grass, each shiny rock, the tadpoles in the creek, her grandfather's paddle song. Her mother, father and grandmother, each in turn, share valuable teachings that they want her to remember. And so Shi-shi-etko carefully gathers her memories for safekeeping.

Richly hued illustrations complement this gently moving and poetic account of a child who finds solace all around her, even though she is on the verge of great loss -- a loss that native people have endured for generations because of the residential schools system.

This gentle story of a child on the verge of great loss was selected as the Aboriginal Children’s Book of the Year.

Awards

  • Winner of the Anskohk Aboriginal Children's Book of the Year Award. 

Educator Information
Recommended Grades: 1-10.

Curriculum Connections: Indigenous Studies, Visual Arts, Science, Health.

Recommended Authentic First Peoples resource K-9.

This illustrated children's story is recommended for English First Peoples Grades 10 for units pertaining to childhood through Indigenous writers' eyes and the exploration of residential schools and reconciliation through children's literature.

This book is available in French: Shi-shi-etko (French)

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.50" x 8.13" 

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Authentic Indigenous Artwork
Relatives With Roots
$17.50
Quantity:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; Métis;
Grade Levels: 3; 4; 5;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781926795003

Synopsis:

Relatives With Roots: A Story About Métis Women’s Connection to the Land is a heartfelt story about a Métis grandmother who takes her granddaughter out into the bush to teach her how to pick traditional medicines. As the granddaughter learns the traditional beliefs and stories about how the Métis people use the plants for food and medicine, she feels happy to be a Métis child with access to such wonderful cultural knowledge. This charming and vibrant book introduces young readers to key concepts in the traditional Métis worldview while focusing on the special relationship between a young Métis girl and her grandmother. Relatives With Roots is the second in a series of children’s books relating to traditional Métis values by Leah Marie Dorion. The first book, The Giving Tree: A Retelling of a Traditional Métis Story, was nominated in 2010 for a Willow Award in the Shining Willow category.

Additional Information
61 Pages | 28 cm x 21.5 cm

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
The Caribou Feed Our Soul
$19.95
Quantity:
Artists:
Format: Hardcover
Grade Levels: 3; 4; 5; 6; 7;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781897252673

Synopsis:

Pete Enzoe is Chipewyan Dene from Lutsel K’e, Northwest Territories, on the East Arm of Great Slave Lake. He is a hunter, fisher, and trapper. He sees his role in life as protector of the caribou and spends much of his time “reading” the land as he travels his peoples’ traditional areas. Pete also helps scientists to monitor the herd’s health and migration. In The Caribou Feed Our Soul, the sixth book in The Land is Our Storybook series, Pete takes readers on a respectful caribou harvest. Along the way, he shares creation stories about how his people are descendants of the caribou. He also describes the spiritual areas his community is trying to protect, including Thaidene Nene, which means “land of our ancestors.” Pete’s stories help the reader to understand the rich history of the Chipewyan Dene and their relationship with the caribou today.

Educator & Series Information
This is the sixth book in the "The Land Is Our Storybook" series, which considers the diverse lands and cultures of Canada's Northwest Territories. Told in a uniquely diverse range of northern voices, with a child-centred approach, books in the series highlight each official Aboriginal language group in the NWT, revealing a richly textured picture of life in the North-on the trapline, around the campfire, in communities, at school, and within the outdoor school that is the land itself. The series celebrates the seasons, ages, genders, traditional activities, and communities of the NWT.

The stories are illustrated by the striking images of acclaimed northern photographer, Tessa Macintosh and depict the similarities in lifestyle between children of the North and South, as well as the marked cultural differences, and highlight the special relationship these First Nations people have with the land and how they are adapting to rapid change while remaining connected to the land. Images of the landscape and animals within it, of trapping, hunting, fishing, and bannock baking sit alongside pictures of children at school, swimming at recreation centres, and reading in libraries. Here is modern northern culture painted beautifully: a complex mix of the new and the old.

These wonderful books, written with a variety of provincial and territorial curricula in mind, are specially designed for the classroom and include special features such as glossaries relating details on animals biology and cultural definitions, regional and language maps. The text of the stories also have sidebars such as Our Stories, which contain the stories of the people and language group featured, and Our Words, which highlight words in the featured language that are important to the story.

Recommended Grade Level: 2-7

Additional Information

32 pages | 8.00" x 8.00"

 

Authentic Indigenous Text
Authentic Indigenous Artwork
The Star People
$25.99
Quantity:
Format: Hardcover
Text Content Territories: Indigenous American; Native American; Sioux; Lakota;
Grade Levels: Preschool; Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9780810945845

Synopsis:

A grandmother's love is forever in this story of remembrance and tradition from award-winning author and member of the Standing Rock Sioux tribe S. D. Nelson.

Sister Girl and her brother Young Wolf wander away from their village and soon find themselves far out in the surrounding prairie. They sit down in the grass and watch the clouds passing above billow to form an eagle, horses, and other creatures. Suddenly, animals begin to race past the children on the ground—followed by a wall of fire! Fleeing along with the frightened beasts, Sister Girl and Young Wolf save themselves by tumbling into a shallow stream.

The fire leaves behind ash and a barren, forbidding landscape. The children realize that they are hopelessly lost. Night is coming—how will they get home to their parents? And why are the evening stars dancing so?

Drawing upon traditional Lakota ledger book art, S.D. Nelson’s illustrations bring to life a memorable new legend about the Star People. Backmatter includes an example and explanation of ledger book art.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 8 and under.

Additional Information
40 pages | 9.00" x 10.25"

Tadpoles to Frogs
$9.95
Quantity:
Authors:
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9780778739753

Synopsis:

Most babies are smaller versions of their parents, but some babies do not look anything like their adult counterparts. This book looks at the life cycle of pond frogs and tree frogs, with amazing photographs following their metamorphosis from tadpoles to adult amphibian. This book is so much more than just another life-cycle book, with easy-to-follow text describing frogs different habitats, how they find food, and how they protect themselves.

Educator & Series Information
Reading Level: Gr. 1-2
Interest Level: Gr. K-3
Guided Reading Level: J

This book is from the It's Fun to Learn About Baby Animals series.  This beautiful series uses adorable pictures of baby animals to introduce basic curriculum concepts, such as animal classification, color and pattern, habitats, animals anatomy, sense, diet, family structures, the role of play, and life cycles. Children will love the pictures of the cute baby animals and will be thrilled to learn about how each animal lives.

Additional Information
24 pages | 8.20" x 9.30"

Authentic Canadian Content
Fraser Bear (4 In Stock) - ON SALE
$11.96 $14.95
Quantity:
Authors:
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: 2; 3; 4; 5;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781926812953

Synopsis:

Fraser Bear follows the first two years in a black bear cub's life in the Pacific Northwest. Fraser's days are filled with adventure, danger, and delight -- and the endless quest for food. He learns the fun of sliding in the snow, the sounds of owls and coyotes, how to find and fill his belly with berries, and how to scurry up a tree and hang on for his life. Most important, he tries to learn the skill of salmon catching from his mother. Eventually, Fraser must leave the protection of his mother and sister and journey on by himself. This exciting story is illuminated by beautiful illustrations of Fraser and his adventures, uniting the cycles of bear and fish, whose lives are so importantly intertwined. A map of the area, glossary, and further information about bears and salmon complete this delightful nature story for young readers.

Additional Information
48 pages | 8.00" x 10.00"

The Other Way to Listen (2 in Stock) - ON SALE
$9.60 $11.99
Quantity:
Authors:
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: 1; 2; 3; 4;
ISBN / Barcode: 9780689810534

Synopsis:

The Caldecott Honor author/illustrator team that brought readers "The Desert Is Theirs" and "The Way to Start a Day" returns with this tale of truly listening to the world around us. In "The Other Way to Listen", a young boy is eager to learn and an old man is happy to share his wisdom.

Full color Ages 6-9.

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Shin-chi's Canoe
$18.95
Quantity:
Artists:
Format: Hardcover
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian;
Grade Levels: 2; 3; 4; 5; 6; 7; 8; 9; 10;
ISBN / Barcode: 9780888998576

Synopsis:

This moving sequel to the award-winning Shi-shi-etko tells the story of two children's experience at residential school. Shi-shi-etko is about to return for her second year, but this time her six-year-old brother, Shin-chi, is going, too. As they begin their journey in the back of a cattle truck, Shi-shi-etko takes it upon herself to tell her little brother all the things he must remember: the trees, the mountains, the rivers and the tug of the salmon when he and his dad pull in the fishing nets. Shin-chi knows he won't see his family again until the sockeye salmon return in the summertime.

When they arrive at school, Shi-shi-etko gives him a tiny cedar canoe, a gift from their father. The children's time is filled with going to mass, school for half the day, and work the other half. The girls cook, clean and sew, while the boys work in the fields, in the woodshop and at the forge. Shin-chi is forever hungry and lonely, but, finally, the salmon swim up the river and the children return home for a joyful family reunion.

Awards

  • 2009 TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award
  • 2008 Governor General’s Literary Award for illustration

Reviews
"Shin-Chi’s Canoe is a story about a brother and sister sent to a residential school and the separation from their culture they experience. Shin-Chi finds comfort with a little cedar canoe and the dream of returning home like the salmon. The children both find peace and strength by connecting to Mother Earth and the water. The story acknowledges the residential school system's devastating events while highlighting Indigenous children's strength and resiliency." - The Dalai Lama Center

Educator Information
Recommended Grades: 2-10.

Recommended Authentic First Peoples K-9 resource.

This illustrated children's story is recommended for English First Peoples Grades 10 for units pertaining to childhood through Indigenous writers' eyes and the exploration of residential schools and reconciliation through children's literature.

This book is available in French: La pirogue de Shin-chi

Additional Information
40 pages | 8.50" x 8.13"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Lessons From Mother Earth
$10.99
Quantity:
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: Preschool; Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9780888998323

Synopsis:

This gentle story demonstrates the First Nations' tradition of taking care of Mother Earth.

Tess has visited her grandmother many times without really being aware of the garden. But today when they step out the door, Tess learns that all of nature can be a garden. And if you take care of the plants that are growing, if you learn about them - understanding when they flower, when they give fruit, and when to leave them alone - you will always find something to nourish you. 

At the end of the day, Tess is grateful to Mother Earth for having such a lovely garden, and she is thankful for having such a wise grandma.

Elaine McLeod's poetic text and Colleen Wood's gentle watercolors combine to make Lessons from Mother Earth a celebration of nature and life.

Educator Information
Curriculum Connections: Social Studies, Science and Nature.

Additional Information
24 pages | 8.80" x 8.80"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Authentic Indigenous Artwork
The Giving Tree: A Retelling of a Traditional Métis Story
$17.50
Quantity:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; Métis;
Grade Levels: 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9780920915905

Synopsis:

This charming story, richly steeped in Métis culture, focuses on the boyhood reminisces of Moushoom as her describes finding the "great giving tree" with his mother and father. The story emphasizes the Métis core values and beliefs including strength, kindness, courage, tolerance, honesty, respect, love, sharing, caring, balance, patience, and most of all, the important connection with the creator and Mother Earth.

Additional Information
50 Pages | 27.9 cm H x 21.5 cm W

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
niwechihaw / I Help
$12.99
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; First Nations; Cree (Nehiyawak);
Grade Levels: Preschool; Kindergarten; 1;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781773061160

Synopsis:

This sweet, simple story looks at a very special relationship. A young boy goes for a walk with his kohkom, or grandmother, listening, picking, praying, eating... just as she does. In doing so, he begins to learn the rich cultural traditions and values of his Cree heritage.

Caitlin Dale Nicholson’s acrylic-on-canvas illustrations portray the close relationship between the boy and his grandmother and the natural beauty of the bush. Her text has been translated into Cree by Leona Morin-Neilson, who was also the inspiration for the story and collaborated with her on this work.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended Ages: 4-7

Delivered in a dual-language format of Cree (y-dialect) and English. 

This book is part of the Nôhkom series.

Recommended for Grades K-1 for the following subject areas: English Language Arts, Indigenous Language Studies, Social Studies, Science and Nature, Visual Arts.

Authenticity Note: Leona Morin-Neilson (Métis-Cree) is a Cree teacher and the inspiration behind this book. She collaborated with the author to create this work. Leona Morin-Neilson teaches Cree at the “Power of Friendship” Aboriginial Headstart program in Prince George, British Columbia, and at the University of Northern British Columbia. She also teaches people in her community about traditional plants and how they can be used for medicinal purposes.

Because of the collaboration between Leona and the author, and Leona's Cree translation, this book has been labeled as containing Authentic Indigenous Text.  It is up to readers to determine if this work is authentic for their purposes.

Additional Information
24 pages | 8.50" x 12.25"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Authentic Indigenous Artwork
A Coyote Columbus Story
$14.99
Quantity:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous;
Grade Levels: Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9780888998309

Synopsis:

A trickster named Coyote rules her world, until a funny-looking stranger named Columbus changes her plans. Unimpressed by the wealth of moose, turtles, and beavers in Coyote' s land, he' d rather figure out how to hunt human beings to sell back in Spain. Thomas King uses a bag of literary tricks to shatter the stereotypes surrounding Columbus' s voyages. In doing so, he invites children to laugh with him at the crazy antics of Coyote, who unwittingly allows Columbus to engineer the downfall of his human friends. William Kent Monkman's vibrant illustrations perfectly complement this amusing story with a message.

Educator Information
Recommended Ages: 5 to 8.

Curriculum Connections: Social Studies, Geography, Physical Education and Health

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.50" x 10.50"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Fox on the Ice
$12.95
Quantity:
Artists:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; First Nations; Cree (Nehiyawak);
Grade Levels: 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781897252666

Synopsis:

One winter afternoon, Joe and Cody went ice fishing with their papa, their mama, and Cody's little black dog, Ootsie. It was the perfect day to fish. The sky was clear, and the sun made the snow sparkle like diamonds.

Brothers Joe and Cody are spending a chilly winter afternoon ice fishing with their parents. Cody is helping Papa fish, while Mama and Joe doze in the sled. Suddenly the sled dogs sit up and sniff. A fox is across the lake, her fur as bright as flames. The sled dogs give chase, pulling Mama and Joe along on a wild ride.

Written in both English and Cree, Fox on the Ice is a wonderful, lyrical story of celebration from award-winning author Tomson Highway, capturing a passing way of life for future generations. Illustrator Brian Deines has created an evocative masterpiece of shimmering oils depicting the beauty of northern Manitoba.

Educator & Series Information
This is the second book in the Songs of the North Wind series, a dual-language (English and Cree) series about two young Cree boys.

This book is available in French/Cree: Un renard sur la glace / Maageesees Maskwameek Kaapit

Additional Information 
32 pages | 8.50" x 10.25"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Authentic Indigenous Artwork
Secret of the Dance
$12.95
Quantity:
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: 1; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781554691296

Synopsis:

"Many years ago, when the world and I were younger, my family defied the government."

A boy will never forget witnessing a forbidden Potlatch. In 1935, a nine-year-old boy's family held a forbidden Potlatch in faraway Kingcome Inlet. Watl'kina slipped from his bed to bear witness. In the Big House masked figures danced by firelight to the beat of the drum. And there, he saw a figure he knew. Aboriginal elder Alfred Scow and award-winning author Andrea Spalding collaborate to tell the story, to tell the secret of the dance.

Educator Information
"This story tells of a time when potlatches, ceremonial dancing and the wearing of regalia and masks were forbidden by Canadian law. A young boy, based on Judge Alfred Scow's boyhood story, witnesses the last secret potlatch of this community before the threat of imprisonment caused them to stop dancing." - FNESC, "BC First Nations Land, Title, and Governance"

Additional Information
32 pages | 9.00" x 9.00"

Authentic Indigenous Text
Authentic Indigenous Artwork
A River Lost
$11.95
Quantity:
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: 4; 5; 6; 7; 8; 9;
ISBN / Barcode: 9780888393838

Synopsis:

A River Lost is the familiar story of an ancient culture infringed upon and altered forever by modern technology. It is the story of how the construction of the Grand Coulee Dam led to the destruction of a way of life for members of the Arrow Lakes Tribe. Sinee mat and her great-grandmother Toopa tell the engaging story of life on the Columbia River, before and after the dam.

Additional Information

32 pages | 8.50" x 11.00"

Authentic Canadian Content
Exploring the World of Wolves
$6.95
Quantity:
Authors:
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: 4; 5; 6; 7;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781554076550

Synopsis:

The wild, wary gray wolf.

The largest wild member of the dog family, the gray wolf stalks much larger mammals, such as the elk, caribou and moose. How does it succeed? Built to run, the long-legged wolf on the hunt uses its powerful sight, hearing, smell and physical strength. But, like the domestic dog, the wolf is a social animal: it lives in a pack.

In this fully illustrated introduction, young readers will learn how group living makes sense for the wolf, allowing it to form strong bonds and share tasks like rearing its young, finding food and communicating over long distances. They''ll also find out how habitat destruction, poisoning campaigns and hunting have reduced gray wolf populations in much of North America.

Full-color photographs provide close-ups and action shots, while the engaging text, sidebars and captions tell the life history of an animal that researchers agree has one of nature''s most engaging personalities.

Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the "Exploring the World of..." series, a nature series produced especially for young readers who are eager to learn more about the wild animals they find especially appealing. The books are packed with facts and offer outstanding value. Clear text in large type and vivid photographs with explanatory captions describe the animals' physical attributes, and storylike narratives about their daily life -- where they live, what they eat, how they hunt, how they communicate, how they raise their young -- present a complete picture of each animal.

Additional Information
24 pages | 8.00" x 8.00"

 

Authentic Canadian Content
Exploring the World of Eagles
$6.95
Quantity:
Authors:
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: 4; 5; 6; 7;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781554076567

Synopsis:

High flight with North America''s mighty eagles.

Only two kinds of eagles live in North America, the bald eagle and the golden eagle. These majestic birds belong to the same family and share many physical traits and behaviors, but there are also important differences between them.

In this fully illustrated introduction, young readers will discover why the bald eagle lives along the coastlines of oceans, lakes and rivers while the golden eagle prefers mountainous regions, prairies and plains. They''ll learn about the impressive nest-building skills of these two raptors and their courtship displays, mating patterns and fierce hunting styles.

Full-color photographs provide close-ups and action shots of these aerial performers, while the engaging text, sidebars and captions offer insights into the life history of two of the world''s most powerful winged predators.

Series Information
This book is part of the "Exploring the World of..." series, a nature series produced especially for young readers who are eager to learn more about the wild animals they find especially appealing. The books are packed with facts and offer outstanding value. Clear text in large type and vivid photographs with explanatory captions describe the animals' physical attributes, and storylike narratives about their daily life -- where they live, what they eat, how they hunt, how they communicate, how they raise their young -- present a complete picture of each animal.

Additional Information
24 pages | 8.00" x 8.00"

Authentic Indigenous Text
Thirteen Moons On Turtle's Back: A Native American Year Of Moons
$12.49
Quantity:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous American; Native American;
Grade Levels: Preschool; Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3; 4;
ISBN / Barcode: 9780698115842

Synopsis:

To many Native Americans, the 13 cycles of the moon represent the changing seasons and the passage of time. Each moon has its own special name that, while varying among the tribal nations, is consistent with the legend that the 13 scales on Old Turtle's back hold the key to these moons. The authors present 13 poems that take readers through the year, from the "Moon of Popping Trees"--when the "cottonwoods crack with frost"--to the "Big Moon" of the Abenakis. The book's effective design consists of verses in vertical columns at the left of each spread, with the remainder occupied by Locker's ( Family Farm ; Catskill Eagle ) typically lush artwork. His oil paintings are eye-catching in their depth of color reflecting dramatic seasonal changes. Trees, skies and woodland creatures are rendered in vivid hues that combine to produce an enthralling vision. This unusual and intelligent book is an exemplary introduction to Native American culture with its emphasis on the importance of nature.

Additional Infromation
32 pages | 8.00" x 10.25"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Authentic Indigenous Artwork
Chuck in the City
$10.95
Quantity:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; First Nations; Cree (Nehiyawak);
Grade Levels: Preschool; Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3; 4; 5;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781894778817

Synopsis:

Follow the adventures of Chuck as he gets lost on his first trip to the big city. Chuck encounters stray dogs and alley cats, kids on skateboards and rollerblades, and tall office towers. After realizing he is lost, Chuck relies on what he has learned to find his way back to his kookum's (grandmother's) condo.

Chuck in the City is Jordan Wheeler's second book for children. The award-winning Cree author and scriptwriter previously introduced young readers to Chuck in Just a Walk. Wheeler writes in a rhyming style that will capture and hold a child's attention.

Series Information
This is the second book in the Chuck series.

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.00" x 8.00"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Authentic Indigenous Artwork
Just a Walk
$12.95
Quantity:
Format: Paperback
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; First Nations; Cree (Nehiyawak);
Grade Levels: Kindergarten; 1; 2;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781894778824

Synopsis:

In Just a Walk, a young boy named Chuck goes for a simple walk that turns into a day of crazy adventure. Chuck encounters animals, fish and birds that lead him on a wild journey through their various habitats.

Jordan Wheeler's whimsical rhyming will capture the young readers attention and Chuck's hilarious predicaments will keep all ages laughing for more.

Written to excite the young readers and to leave a smile on their faces.

Educator & Series Information
Just a Walk is an adaptation of a popular oral presentation developed as an interactive performance for children.

This is the first book in the Chuck series.

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.00" x 8.00"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Authentic Indigenous Artwork
The Little Hummingbird
$21.95
Quantity:
Format: Hardcover
Grade Levels: Preschool; Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781553655336

Synopsis:

This inspiring children's book -- a revised edition of the award-winning Flight of the Hummingbird -- is based on a South American Indigenous story about a courageous hummingbird who defies fear and expectations in her attempt to save the forest from fire. The illustrated story is supplemented by a natural and cultural history of hummingbirds, as well as an inspiring message from Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai. The evocative artwork by internationally renowned Haida artist Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas complements the optimistic tale that encourages everyone to take responsibility for their home and the planet.

Reviews
“This fable-like tale shows readers how one person can make a difference in everyday life… The illustrations are… beautifully representative of Native Haida art.”—School Library Journal

“A visually striking, dramatic book… An environmental parable it is, but could it not be a parable for life itself?”—The Globe and Mail

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 5+. 

Based on a South American Indigenous story, The Little Hummingbird features:

  • Stunning artwork in Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas’ iconic style
  • An inspiring afterword from Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai
  • Scientific and cultural facts about hummingbirds

Additional Information
32 pages | 6.75" x 10.00"

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Authentic Indigenous Artwork
Baseball Bats for Christmas
$24.99
Quantity:
Format: Hardcover
Text Content Territories: Indigenous Canadian; Inuit;
Grade Levels: Kindergarten; 1; 2; 3;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781773219721

Synopsis:

Celebrate the 35th anniversary of this beloved holiday classic with a fresh edition that preserves the magic of the original story and brings it to life with stunning new illustrations.

The year is 1955. Arvaarluk and his friends watch Rocky Parsons land his plane on the ice in Repulse Bay, a tiny community “smack dab on the Arctic Circle.” Having never seen trees before, the children try to guess what the six green spindly things are that Rocky delivers. One of the boys has a brilliant idea: why not use them as baseball bats?

Michael Arvaarluk Kusugak is one of Canada’s foremost storytellers. Baseball Bats for Christmas captures the warmth and cadence of his voice as he describes the close-knit life of his community and the ingenuity he and his friends demonstrated when faced with something wholly unfamiliar.

Award-winning Inuk illustrator Coco Apunnguaq Lynge draws inspiration from the iconic work of Inuk artist Germaine Arnaktauyok to immerse the reader in the beauty of the Arctic landscape.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 5 to 8.

Themes: Inuit; Arctic; community; multicultural; friends; resourcefulness. 

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.50" x 10.75" | Hardcover

Authentic Canadian Content
Authentic Indigenous Text
Authentic Indigenous Artwork
I Like Who I Am
$12.95
Quantity:
Format: Paperback
Grade Levels: 1; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6;
ISBN / Barcode: 9781894778633

Synopsis:

Celina is a young Mohawk girl who moves to her mother's home reserve. She is teased by her classmates who tell her that she is not Mohawk and does not belong because she has blond hair and blue eyes. Celina starts to believe her classmates and decides not to dance at an upcoming Pow Wow. But her great-grandmother helps Celina understand that being Mohawk is not about how she looks but about what she feels in her heart. When the drumming starts at the Pow Wow, Celina decides to dance after all. A beautifully illustrated story, I Like Who I Am explores issues of bullying and belonging as Celina looks for acceptance in her new community.

Reviews
"[I Like Who I Am] doesn't only work as a learning tool, with Mohawk words interspersed with English ones, it is a life lesson. Heart warming, sincere and full of experiences we've all had, I Like Who I Am is a must read for parents." — Steve Bonspiel, The Eastern Door

"An outstanding book ideal for helping grades three to six children begin exploring: 1) the concept of culture, 2) the dynamics and pitfalls associated with judging/bullying others based on their physical features, and 3) the value of taking action against bullies who judge others by how they look." — Canadian Material Review

Educator Information
Recommended Ages: 6-11

Additional Information
44 pages | 8.00" x 9.00"

 

Sort By
Go To   of 4
>

Strong Nations Publishing

2595 McCullough Rd
Nanaimo, BC, Canada, V9S 4M9

Phone: (250) 758-4287

Email: contact@strongnations.com

Strong Nations - Indigenous & First Nations Gifts, Books, Publishing; & More! Our logo reflects the greater Nation we live within—Turtle Island (North America)—and the strength and core of the Pacific Northwest Coast peoples—the Cedar Tree, known as the Tree of Life. We are here to support the building of strong nations and help share Indigenous voices.