Syilx (Okanagan)

An uplifting story of a girl’s connection to her beloved grandmother through the beadwork art they created together.

As she wakes up one dull morning, Kaiah feels as cold and grey as the day. She longs to be with her grandmother again. Kaiah’s life doesn’t feel right without her. But through Kaiah’s treasured bead box — and the beauty it holds — she is with her grandmother, in a garden that is full of colour and love.

This beautiful story from award-winning author Melanie Florence celebrates the universal love between grandmother and child. Featuring bright, breathtaking illustrations from Tsilhqot’in and Syilx artist Karlene Harvey, the book also features back matter about the Indigenous tradition of beading.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 8.

This book is available in French: Le jardin de Kaiah.

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.35" x 10.27" | Hardcover 

L’histoire édifiante d’une jeune fille qui se rapproche de sa grand-mère bien-aimée grâce à l’art du perlage.

En se réveillant par un matin maussade, Kaiah se sent aussi froide et grise que le jour. Sa grand-maman lui manque, et elle a envie de la retrouver. Sans sa grand-mère, la vie de Kaiah n’a pas de sens. Heureusement, Kaiah peut ouvrir sa précieuse boîte de perles, et grâce à la beauté qu’elle renferme, la jeune fille retrouve sa grand-mère dans un jardin plein de couleurs et d’amour.

Cette magnifique histoire de l’autrice primée Melanie Florence célèbre l’amour universel entre une grand-mère et sa petite-fille. Illustré par Karlene Harvey, une brillante artiste Tsilhqot’in et Syilx, ce livre comporte également un supplément d’information sur la tradition autochtone du perlage.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 8.

This book is available in English: Kaiah's Garden 

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.02" x 10.00" | Paperback

Le tambour est un symbole spécial dans plusieurs cultures autochtones. Dans ce livre illustré en rimes, le jeune Ren reçoit un tambour confectionné par sa mère, qui l’aide à apprendre plusieurs choses sur lui-même et sa culture. Adaptation du livre à succès, Joue du tambour avec cœur de l’auteur nuu-chah-nulth Ren Louie pour les 4 à 6 ans.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 6.

This book is available in English here: Teachings of the Drum

Additional Information
24 pages | 7.87" x 7.24" | Hardcover

The drum is a special symbol in many Indigenous cultures. In this rhyming picture book, young Ren is given a handmade drum by his mother that help to teach him many things about himself and his culture.

An adaptation of the best-selling book, Drum from the Heart, by Indigenous author Ren Louie for ages 4-6.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 6.

This book is an adaptation of Drum from the Heart for ages 4 to 6.

This book is available in French: Les enseignements du tambour 

Additional Information 
24 pages | 8.50" x 7.50" | Hardcover 

A pitch-perfect story about sibling bonds and Anishinaabe cultural traditions, from the bestselling author of SkySisters.

Serenity is following her brother, Big Ed, to his fishing spot on Hawk River. Big Ed explains that the river is named for the Hawk, Gekek, the Keepers of the river and their Protectors. “They see things far off in the distance, things we can't,” he tells Serenity. Later, when Big Ed gets in trouble while fishing, Serenity follows the Hawk's shadow to come to her brother's aid. Bestselling author Jan Bourdeau Waboose showcases Indigenous storytelling traditions in this compelling picture book featuring Ojibwe words and cultural practices. Karlene Harvey's brightly colored illustrations stunningly capture the natural world of the bush. The sibling relationship, full of teasing and admonitions, is pitch-perfect, and will be relatable to readers of any age. This captivating book, with its rich narrative and riveting climax, is a wonderful choice for reading aloud. It's an excellent accompaniment to social studies lessons on cultures, local and global communities, and Indigenous Peoples. It also offers a perfect opportunity to encourage children to notice the natural world where they live.

Reviews
"The Hawk Shadow is a rich and tender story by Jan Bourdeau Waboose, an Anishinaabe author from the Bear Clan in Northern Ontario, with illustrations by Karlene Harvey, a Tsilhqot’in and Syilx artist from Vancouver. It follows Serenity and her big brother, Big Ed, as they journey to Hawk Lake to fish. Along the way, Serenity meets the Hawk Shadow, a river guardian who sees beyond the visible world and guides her through a moment of crisis. Rooted in Waboose’s family and community traditions, the story is infused with Indigenous Knowledge, love, and respect for the land. The Hawk Shadow is more than a tale of kinship and adventure; it’s a poetic reflection of Indigenous Ways of Knowing and Being." -  Anika L., Middle School Teacher, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 7.

This book is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for K to 6 classrooms for English Language Arts. 

Additional Information
32 pages | 10.00" x 9.00" | Hardcover

Apprenez ce que veut dire la phrase « Chaque enfant compte ». Phyllis Webstad, la fondatrice de la Journee du chandail orange, presente un apercu de ce mouvement sincere. Chaque enfant compte honore l'histoire et la resilience des peuples autochtones sur l'Ile de la Tortue et nous permet de tous cheminer vers la verite et la reconciliation. Si vous etes un survivant des pensionnats ou un survivant intergenerationnel, vous comptez. Pour les enfants qui ne sont pas revenus a la maison, vous comptez. L'enfant en chacun de nous compte. Chaque enfant compte.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 10.

Find the accompanying Teacher Lesson Plan here: Chaque enfant compte plan de cours

This book is available in English: Every Child Matters

Additional Information
44 pages | 8.62" x 11.18" | Hardcover 

Learn the meaning behind the phrase, ‘Every Child Matters.'

Orange Shirt Day founder, Phyllis Webstad, offers insights into this heartfelt movement.

Every Child Matters honours the history and resiliency of Indigenous Peoples on Turtle Island and moves us all forward on a path toward Truth and Reconciliation.

If you're a Residential School Survivor or an Intergenerational Survivor - you matter. For the children who didn't make it home - you matter. The child inside every one of us matters. Every Child Matters.

Reviews
"Every Child Matters speaks to all Indigenous Peoples - past and present - whose lives have been impacted by the residential school system. Phyllis and Karlene beautifully honour the unity, strength and resolve shared by Survivors, their families and their communities. Residential schools took our children and tried to break their vibrant spirits. With this book, the children of today can learn the truths of this history and how they can play a part in making sure every child matters." – Stephanie Scott, Executive Director of the National Center for Truth and Reconciliation

“…a brilliantly illustrated and meticulously written narrative. It is a must read.” -  Chief Dr. Robert Joseph, Gwawaenuk, Elder, Reconciliation Canada

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 10.

Find the accompanying Teacher Lesson Plan resource HERE!

This book is available in French: Chaque enfant compte

Additional Information
44 pages | 8.50" x 11.00" | Hardcover 

In this sequel to Maggie Lou, Firefox, the irrepressible Maggie Lou acquires a new cousin, and a horse - both of whom have minds of their own.

When Uncle Bobby gets married, Maggie Lou suddenly finds herself with a new cousin, Rosie. Rosie is the same age as Maggie. She also has a fabulous head of curls, although hers are red. And Rosie knows everything about horses and riding - something Maggie Lou has longed to do.

A rivalry sparks between the girls from the start at Uncle Bobby and Aunt Bonnie's wedding, which features an all-you-can-eat dessert table, as well as lots of energetic dancing. On Rosie's horse farm, Maggie experiences her share of humiliations as she learns how to ride on a pony so short that her feet can touch the ground.

Eventually the cousins become allies and wreak some hair-raising mischief, including a secret midnight horseback ride. And in the end they are joined by friends and family to train, hilariously, for the famous Otipîm'sowak Race - a Métis voyageur relay - carrying on a family tradition.

Throughout it all, Maggie remains stubborn and enthusiastic, as she navigates the new challenges of defeat, rivalry and family change.

Reviews
"A high-energy love letter to rambunctious girls, big families, and Métis culture." — Kirkus Reviews, June 2025

"Full of hilarious high jinks yet bursting with heart ... This book shines with realistic sibling relationships, funny dialogue, strong intergenerational bonds, and a steadfast connection to community and culture."— Booklist, July 2025

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 9 to 12.

This book is the second book in the Maggie Lou series.

Key Text Features: chapters; character drawings; dialogue; glossary; illustrations. 

Additional Information
228 pages | 5.00" x 7.50" | b&w illustrations | Paperback

Maggie Lou's grandpa doesn't call her Firefox for nothing. She's always finding ways to make life more interesting - even if this means getting into big trouble.

"Keep taking up space," Maggie Lou's mother says. You're only making room for the girls behind you."

When her grandfather Moshôm finally agrees to teach her how to box, she decides that the rank odors, endless drills and teasing won't stop her from wearing a tutu to the gym. Joining her father's construction crew uncovers a surprising talent - besides learning how to use a broom - and a great source of scrap wood to build a canine hotel for her dogs. And when she turns thirteen, she figures out an ingenious way to make some smokin' good camouflage to wear on her first deer hunt, where she joins a long family tradition.

Through it all she is surrounded by her big extended gumbo soup of a family, pestered by annoying younger siblings, and gently guided by her strong female relatives - her mother, her kokhom and her ultra-cool cousin Jayda. "Keep taking up space," Maggie's mother says. "You're only making room for the girls behind you."

A heroine for today, Maggie Lou discovers that with hard work and perseverance she can gain valuable new skills, without losing one iota of her irrepressible spirit.

Reviews
"Métis author Bowes weaves cultural elements, including Northern Michif words, into this charming story that skillfully captures sweetly hilarious and loving everyday moments. Black-and-white illustrations enhance the text. An amusing story showcasing Métis humor at its finest." - Kirkus, STARRED REVEIW

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 9 to 12.

This is the first book in the Maggie Lou series.

Key Text Features: author's note, biographical note, glossary, chapters, dialogue, epigraph, illustrations.

Includes some Northern Michif words and a glossary.

Additional Information
220 pages | 5.00" x 7.50" | b&w illustrations | Paperback

When he is gifted a handmade drum by his mother, Ren learns the teachings of the drum that she also passes down to him. Ren discovers that through this special drum, he is able to connect to his culture and find a confidence in his voice to joyfully share in singing the traditional songs of his Nuu-chah-nulth Nation.

Reviews
“A beautifully told story that shows the power of song and ceremony for our people. As well as the importance of family in the passing of traditions and the unconditional love and support each member of the family gives. A truly inspiring story for our youth to learn the songs of their families and nations.” - Tiffany Adams, Nlaka’pamux, Indigenous Educator

Educator Information
A Teacher Lesson Plan is available HERE!

This resource is available in French: Joue du tambour avec coeur

An adaptation of this book for children ages 4 to 6 is available: Teachings of the Drum

Additional Information
34 pages | 8.50" x 11.00" | Paperback

Quand vous faites une marche en nature, qui voyez-vous? Qu’entendez-vous?La conteuse Nicola I. Campbell donne sens aux mots « se tenir debout comme un grand cèdre » dans une touchante exploration au sein de la nature sauvage. On y apprend le nom des animaux en langues nle?kepmxcín et halq’emeylem ainsi que les enseignements qu’ils ont à nous offrir.Autrice de Shi-shi-etko et de La pirogue de Shin-chi, deux textes primés, Nicola I. Campbell nous offre ici un album pour enfants magnifiquement illustré par l’artiste Carrielynn Victor, dans une langue poétique qui nous invite à célébrer l’environnement, le développement durable et le sentiment d’appartenance à la terre.

Educator Information
Dès 6 ans

This book is available in English: Stand Like a Cedar

Additional Information
Hardcover

Muskrat takes the children through all the many fish that live in the water of the Okanagan valley.

kəxntim sʕanixʷ k̕əl nixʷtitkʷ acxʷəl̕xʷalt / We Go With Muskrat to Those Living Underwater is an interactive story with sʕanixʷ (Muskrat) in the lead, allowing readers to learn both the n’syilxwcn and English names of underwater creatures living in the Okanagan Valley. The book seamlessly combines beautiful imagery with amusing descriptions as Muskrat introduces a diverse set of underwater creatures.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 9.

Author Harron Hall has written several children's books that incorporate her Indigenous heritage and her deep commitment to protecting the land and water, including The Water Sings to Suli?, Water Changeling and Lessons from Beaver's Work.

Learn the names of many fish and aquatic creatures that live in the Okanagan Valley in n’syilxwcn (the language spoken by the Sylix/Okanagan peoples) and English.

Features bright and colorful illustrations from Indigenous artist Ron Hall.

This book is part of the Follow the Water series.

Additional Information
40 pages | 8.00" x 8.00"

Beaver shares his teachings on how he shapes the land.

kʷu‿c̕əx̌ʷəntim təl stunx isck’ʷuls / Lessons From Beaver’s Work teaches children through storytelling to hold reverence for all life forms. The book depicts a conflict between Tapit, a rancher, and stunx (beaver), as they both try to meet their water needs. The touching humanity of stunx (Beaver) softens Tapit’s outlook, as he reminds Tapit that he is not the only one that depends on water.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 10 to 13.

Author Harron Hall has written several children's books that incorporate her Indigenous heritage and her deep commitment to protecting the land and water, including The Water Sings to Suli?, Water Changeling and We Go with Muskrat to Those Living Underwater.

This fictional story teaches the importance of watersheds and protecting our water systems.

Includes words in n'syilxwcn, the language spoken by the Sylix/Okanagan peoples.

This book is part of the Follow the Water series.

Additional Information
26 pages | 8.00" x 8.00"

The journey and transformation of water from the tops of the mountains down through the rivers and streams, told from a Syilx perspective.

skɬp’lk’mitkw / Water Changeling is the story of the natural water cycle from a Syilx traditional ecological knowledge perspective. The story features a water girl named skɬp’lk’mitkw who longs to visit with her grandparents. She receives help from newfound friends who change her into rain, hail and snow so she can reach her grandparents.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 7 to 10.

Author Harron Hall has written several children's books that incorporate her Indigenous heritage and her deep commitment to protecting the land and water, including The Water Sings to Suli?, We Go with Muskrat to Those Living Underwater and Lessons from Beaver's Work.

Learn about the water cycle using the n'syilxcen (the language spoken by the Sylix/Okanagan peoples) and English languages.  This book includes some words in n'syilxcen, but it is not a dual-language resource.

Learn about the water cycle through a fictional story.

This book is part of the Follow the Water series.

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.00" x 8.00"

When you go for a walk in nature, who do you see? What do you hear?

Award-winning storyteller Nicola I. Campbell shows what it means “to stand like a cedar” on this beautiful journey of discovery through the wilderness. Learn the names of animals in the Nłe7kepmxcín or Halq’emeylem languages as well as the teachings they have for us. Experience a celebration of sustainability and connection to the land through lyrical storytelling and Carrielynn Victor’s breathtaking art in this children’s illustrated book.

Discover new sights and sounds with every read.

Reviews
"Stand Like a Cedar is a work of grace and dignity, a celebration of land, family, and knowing who you are and where you come from and being so grateful for everything you’ve been given. Bravo, Nicola Campbell and Carrielynn Victor for creating this treasure. I love it."—Richard Van Camp, author of Little You and A Blanket of Butterflies

"Campbell’s rhythmic writing is wonderful, conveying important messages about the environment and family. Victor’s vibrant renderings accompany the engaging text nicely. Bold illustrations portray elements such as weather, nature, and animals alongside evocative details like glowing skylines. An Indigenous girl shares vivid lessons in this lovely, thoughtful environmental tale." —Kirkus Reviews

"Stand Like a Cedar is a story that connects the journey of building connections through a journey in the wilderness. Through the blended use of the Nłeʔkepmxcín and Halq'emeylem languages, readers are exposed to the healing that takes place in nature. The lyrical storytelling celebrates the healing and strength that comes from building one’s connections to their own journey." - The Dalai Lama Center

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 9.

Learn the names of animals in the Nłe7kepmxcín or Halq’emeylem languages as well as the teachings they have for us.

Includes a glossary of phrases and a translation guide.

Includes a page of back matter on Coastal and Interior Salish Languages.

This book is available in French: Debout comme un grand cedre

Additional Information
40 pages | 8.12" x 7.75"