Language

Frank and the Skunk is the second book in the Orca Two Read line designed for shared reading between a child learning to read or struggling to read and an experienced reader, following Duck in a Sock. The stories have special features to help a child with dyslexia or another language-based learning difficulty find reading success.

Besties Meg and Greg are off to sleep-away camp for the summer! Along with your standard camp activities (swimming and making crafts) the duo have a run-in with a skunk, sing a silly song about a king, go on a canoe trip that has one glitch after another, and make a mess in the lodge with a fresh batch of fudge! So sit down and cozy up for another set of Meg and Greg adventures, this one focusing on the phonograms: nk, ng, tch and edge.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.

This book is part of the Meg and Greg Series, an Orca Two Read line designed for shared reading between a child learning to read or struggling to read and an experienced reader.

Themes: phonics, dyslexia, learning difference, animal adventures, buddy reading

A downloadable resource pack is available: Resource Pack - Meg and Greg: Frank and the Skunk

Additional Information
160 pages | 5.87" x 8.25" | b&w illustrations

From Ant (Gligoetjit) to Wolf (Paqtism) and beyond, the Mi'kmaq Alphabet Book is sure to delight the young and the young at heart. Braelyn Cyr's vibrant illustrations are a delightful pair to Shyla Augustine's first baby board book.

Additional Information
26 pages | 7.00" x 7.00" | Board Book

A baby board book from the bestselling artist behind Mi'kmaw Animals that teaches young readers Mi'kmaw concepts and a Mi'kmaw word for each day of the week.

From celebrated artist Alan Syliboy, this vital book for the youngest readers showcases seven of Syliboy’s popular Daily Drum artworks, each paired with a different day of the week. From Spirit Woman to Caribou to Round Dance, Mi’kmaw culture and teachings are offered up to newborns and toddlers in a vibrant and accessible book.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 and under.

Includes references to Muin, the eight-point star, the round dance, and Spirit Woman.

Additional Information
10 pages | 7.00" x 7.00" | Boardbook

Nibi is water and water is life.

A first conversation about the importance of Nibi—which means water in Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe)—and our role to thank, respect, love, and protect it. Babies and toddlers can follow Nibi as it rains and snows, splashes or rows, drips and sips. Written from an Anishinaabe water protector’s perspective, the book is in dual language—English and Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe).

Educator Information
Board Book for ages 0 - 3 / Preschool.

A board book for babies and toddlers that introduces the importance of water and water protection.  Indigenous water protectors, like author Joanne Robertson, are highly respected environmentalists in Canada and across North America.  Joanne Robertson is the author and illustrator of the award-winning picture book The Water Walker.

Dual-language: Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe) and English.  Dual-language books are important in all of our efforts to support the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's Call to Action, specifically the call to promote, support, and teach Indigenous languages.

Subjects: Character Education (Strong Female Role Models); Environmentalism; History & Social Studies (Canadian History, First Nations & Indigenous Peoples, Social Justice).

Translated by Shirley Williams and Isadore Toulouse.

Additional Information
28 pages | 7.00" x 7.00"

NOW REVISED! This edition features updated Rocky Cree translations and an expanded glossary, augmented with new maps to give a more detailed look at Pīsim’s journey. These enhancements make this book a great tool for teachers and a great addition to any library.

Out of an important archaeological discovery came this unique story about a week in the life of Pīsim, a young Cree woman, who lived in the mid 1600s. In the story, created by renowned storyteller William Dumas, Pīsim begins to recognize her miskanaw – the path for her life – and to develop her gifts for fulfilling that path. The story is brought to life by the rich imagery of Mi’kmaw artist Leonard Paul, and is accompanied by sidebars on Cree language and culture, archaeology and history, maps, songs, and more.

Reviews
"In imagining the life of a young Cree woman, this volume provides a wonderful evocation of the wisdom and language of Cree elders that seamlessly incorporates archaeology, ethnology, and oral traditions." — Stephen Loring, Arctic Studies Center, Smithsonian Institute, Washington DC

"This rich story ... brings alive the history and language of Asiniskow Ithiniwak in Manitowapow while illustrating the cultural breadth of a dynamic community. This book is a joy to read, teach, and share with my daughter." — Niigaanwewidam James Sinclair, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Native Studies University of Manitoba

"The brilliant teamwork between archaeologists, the Cree, and an accomplished storyteller gives us... a beautifully written and illustrated journey into a centuries-old world... the books promises to be a classic of Canadian history." — Brian Fagan, Emeritus Professor of Anthropology, University of California, Santa Barbara, and author of The First North Americans

Educator & Series Information
Pīsim Finds Her Miskanaw is book one in The Six Seasons of the Asiniskow Īthiniwak series about the Asiniskow Īthiniwak (Rocky Cree) of Northern Manitoba. Corresponding to the six seasons of sīkwan (spring), nīpin (summer), takwakin (fall), mikiskow (freeze-up), pipon (winter), and mithoskamin (break-up), the books explore the language, culture, knowledge, territory, and history of the 17th century Rocky Cree people through story and images. The groundbreaking series centres Indigenous ways of knowing and includes insights from a wide range of disciplines – cross-cultural education, history, archaeology, anthropology, linguistics, literature, oral culture and storytelling, experiential and community-based learning, and art.

Recommended for ages 9 to 12.

Reading Level: Lexile® Framework for Reading: 940L

Contains some Cree language.

Additional Information
60 pages | 10.00" x 12.00" | Revised | Hardcover 

With bright and bold illustrations by celebrated Indigenous artist Roy Henry Vickers, this sturdy board book introduces iconic sounds of the West Coast and supports the language development of babies and toddlers. From the the crackle of a beach campfire to the swoosh of canoe paddles, the rustle and creak of cedars in the wind, the roar of sea lions and the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean, the rhythmic text, vibrant illustrations and glossy tactile finish of Raven Squawk, Orca Squeak will delight the very youngest readers.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 3 and under.

This book is part of the First West Coast Books series.

Additional Information
20 pages | 6.00" x 6.00"

When Nellie Winters was 11 years old, she was sent to attend the Nain Boarding School, a residential school 400 kilometres from her home. In this memoir, she recalls life before residential school, her experiences at the school, and what it was like to come home.

Accompanied by the author’s original illustrations, this moving, often funny memoir sheds light on the experiences of Inuit residential school survivors in Labrador.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 11-14.

This book is recommended in the Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 2020/2021 resource list for grades 5 to 7 for English Language Arts and Social Studies.

This book is part of the Qinuisaarniq (“resiliency”) program.  This is a program created to educate Nunavummiut about the history and impacts of residential schools, policies of assimilation, and other colonial acts that have affected the Canadian Arctic.

Each resource has been carefully written and reviewed to include level-appropriate opportunities for students to learn about colonial acts and policies that have affected Inuit. These acts and policies created long-lasting impacts on Inuit individuals and communities, which are still being felt today.

The resources in this program include personal interviews, testimony, and writing; non-fiction informational resources; and information about traditional Inuit practices.

Additional Information
26 pages | 9.00" x 7.00" | Transcribed and edited by Erica Oberndorfer

Antibiotics, bandages, cough syrup, ointment, pills…modern medicine has so much to offer when we become ill. But is it actually modern?

When Siha Tooskin—Paul Wahasaypa—finds himself not feeling at all well he learns that there are answers for him from the healing practices of his own people and from Western medicine. Pay a hospital visit to Paul as he learns more about where “modern medicine” really comes from and how we can all benefit from Indigenous and Western healers as Paul seeks the best medicine for his own wellness.

The Siha Tooskin Knows series uses vivid narratives and dazzling illustrations in contemporary settings to share stories about an 11-year-old Nakota boy.

Educator & Series Information
The Siha Tooskin Knows series uses vivid narratives and dazzling illustrations in contemporary settings to share stories about an 11-year-old Nakota boy. Explore Nakota culture and traditions alongside Paul Wahasaypa and his community in this eight-book series.

Key Features:

• A coming-of-age story about a Nakota boy learning about his identity and developing a sense of cultural responsibility in a contemporary, urban setting. Also touches on issues of environmental ecology and bullying.
• Charlene Bearhead and Wilson Bearhead are both well-respected and accomplished educators and storytellers.
• A part of the Siha Tooskin Knows series with teachings that show an Indigenous community and family in a positive light.
• Nakota lessons aim for universality, informing both Indigenous and non-Indigenous readers.
• This book illustrates how traditional teachings can play a vital role in contemporary life.
• Dynamic illustrations by Nakota artist Chloe Bluebird Mustooch bring this story to life.

Recommended for ages 9 to 11.  Early Chapter Books.

Recommended in the Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 2020/2021 resource list for grades 3-5 in the areas of English, Social Studies, Science, and Physical and Health Education.

Includes a glossary of Nakota terminology woven throughout the story.  Words are written phonetically, as Nakota is not a written language.

Themes/Subjects/Keywords: Nakota, Traditional Healing Practices, Modern Medicine, Healing, Health, Plant Medicines, Mind and Body, Traditional Ecological Knowledge.

Additional Information
24 pages | 5.50" x 8.00"

Siha Tooskin (Paul) takes his expert bike riding to a whole new level to make sure he doesn't miss a thing. At home, Mugoshin (Grandmother) is creating a very special gift to protect the precious little one. Join Paul as he enjoys delicious bannock, imagines the future of a new baby sister, and listens to Mugoshin’s teachings about the catcher of dreams.

The Siha Tooskin Knows series uses vivid narratives and dazzling illustrations in contemporary settings to share stories about an 11-year-old Nakota boy.

Reviews
"Siha Tooskin Knows the Catcher of Dreams is one in a series of Siha Tooskin Knows books that follows the life of Siha Tooskin, a young Indigenous boy (who also has the English name Paul). In this book Siha Tooskin’s mother is about to give birth to another baby so Siha Tooskin’s grandparents come to stay with him. His grandmother begins to tell him the story of the dream catcher along with the importance of this often-commercialized object. I love the sense of family we get from this book and how much importance Siha Tooskin’s grandmother places on the family unit, especially in a time where many Indigenous families are still actively being destroyed by systemic inequalities. As a teacher, I appreciated the mention of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the way teachers are still learning how to accurately represent Indigenous peoples. The illustrations are beautiful (especially the full page ones) and the grade level for reading is somewhere around grades 3-5 but the content is also perfect for grades 7 & 8 history. Overall, a great read perfect for K-8 classrooms alike." — Alyssa Gray-Tyghter, NetGalley, November 2019

Educator & Series Information
The Siha Tooskin Knows series uses vivid narratives and dazzling illustrations in contemporary settings to share stories about an 11-year-old Nakota boy. Explore Nakota culture and traditions alongside Paul Wahasaypa and his community in this eight-book series.

Key Features:

• A coming-of-age story about a Nakota boy learning about his identity and developing a sense of cultural responsibility in a contemporary, urban setting. Also touches on issues of environmental ecology and bullying.
• Charlene Bearhead and Wilson Bearhead are both well-respected and accomplished educators and storytellers.
• A part of the Siha Tooskin Knows series with teachings that show an Indigenous community and family in a positive light.
• Nakota lessons aim for universality, informing both Indigenous and non-Indigenous readers.
• This book illustrates how traditional teachings can play a vital role in contemporary life.
• Dynamic illustrations by Nakota artist Chloe Bluebird Mustooch bring this story to life.

Recommended for ages 9 to 11.  Early Chapter Books.

Recommended in the Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 2020/2021 resource list for Grades 3 to 6 in the areas of English and Social Studies.

Subjects/Themes/Keywords: Dreamcatcher, Nakota, Family.

Includes a glossary for the Nakota terminology in the story. Words are written phonetically as Nakota is not a written language.

Additional Information
32 pages | 5.50" x 8.00"

For as long as Paul could remember there were eagle feathers around him…but how had they come to be in all of those places in his life?

Paul Wahasaypa—Siha Tooskin—already knows that the eagle is important because of the way that his family respects and cares for eagle feathers. Now he’s old enough for the teachings of where the feathers come from and why they are so sacred. Walk with Paul and Mitoshin (his grandfather) so you too will understand the teaching of the sacred eagle feather.

The Siha Tooskin Knows series uses vivid narratives and dazzling illustrations in contemporary settings to share stories about an 11-year-old Nakota boy.

Educator & Series Information
The Siha Tooskin Knows series uses vivid narratives and dazzling illustrations in contemporary settings to share stories about an 11-year-old Nakota boy. Explore Nakota culture and traditions alongside Paul Wahasaypa and his community in this eight-book series.

Key Features:

• A coming-of-age story about a Nakota boy learning about his identity and developing a sense of cultural responsibility in a contemporary, urban setting. Also touches on issues of environmental ecology and bullying.
• Charlene Bearhead and Wilson Bearhead are both well-respected and accomplished educators and storytellers.
• A part of the Siha Tooskin Knows series with teachings that show an Indigenous community and family in a positive light.
• Nakota lessons aim for universality, informing both Indigenous and non-Indigenous readers.
• This book illustrates how traditional teachings can play a vital role in contemporary life.
• Dynamic illustrations by Nakota artist Chloe Bluebird Mustooch bring this story to life.

Recommended for ages 9 to 11.  Early Chapter Books.

Recommended in the Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 2020/2021 resource list for Grades 3 to 6 in the areas of English and Social Studies.

Includes a glossary with Nakota words.

Keywords/Themes/Subjects: Nakota, Eagle Feathers, Customs and Traditions, Culture, Connectedness to Plants and Animals. 

Additional Information
32 pages | 5.50" x 8.00" | Colour Illustrations

Where can you find strength when someone disrespects you? And what does having strength really mean?

Paul Wahasaypa—Siha Tooskin—has learned from Ena (his mom) and Ade (his dad) to maintain a strong mind, heart, and spirit. Though starting at a new school can be hard, especially when the kids there have never experienced the values and culture of the Nakota people. Join Paul as Mitoshin (his grandfather) helps remind him how strength of character can be found in the strength of his hair.

The Siha Tooskin Knows series uses vivid narratives and dazzling illustrations in contemporary settings to share stories about an 11-year-old Nakota boy.

Educator & Series Information
The Siha Tooskin Knows series uses vivid narratives and dazzling illustrations in contemporary settings to share stories about an 11-year-old Nakota boy. Explore Nakota culture and traditions alongside Paul Wahasaypa and his community in this eight-book series.

Key Features:

• A coming-of-age story about a Nakota boy learning about his identity and developing a sense of cultural responsibility in a contemporary, urban setting. Also touches on issues of environmental ecology and bullying.
• Charlene Bearhead and Wilson Bearhead are both well-respected and accomplished educators and storytellers.
• A part of the Siha Tooskin Knows series with teachings that show an Indigenous community and family in a positive light.
• Nakota lessons aim for universality, informing both Indigenous and non-Indigenous readers.
• This book illustrates how traditional teachings can play a vital role in contemporary life.
• Dynamic illustrations by Nakota artist Chloe Bluebird Mustooch bring this story to life.

Recommended for ages 9 to 11.  Early Chapter Books.

Recommended in the Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 2020/2021 resource list for Grades 3 to 6 in the areas of English and Social Studies.

Keywords/Themes/Subjects: Nakota Culture, Respect, Body, Mind, and Spirit.

Includes a Nakota glossary.

Additional Information
24 pages | 5.50" x 8.00" | Colour Illustrations

meʔiƛqac ʔis i ʔukłamaḥ t`uc`up

Walk through the forest with t`uc`up as he meets the baby animals, explores their homes, and learns about Nuu-Chah-Nulth language and culture.

This book is written in Nuu-Chah-Nulth.

Educator & Series Information
Language: Nuu-Chah-Nulth

Simple illustrations make the text easy to follow for any reader.

This book is part of the T'uc'up Series.

The Port Alberni Friendship Center offers sincere gratitude to the Elders and Knowledge Keepers who contributed their Traditional Knowledge, Language Translation, and Stories so generously in the creation of the book, including the following:

yaʔałat – Kathy Robinson

wiic̓aʔin – Erma Robinson

kʷiʔiil – Katherine Robinson

yaasuisʔaks – Jessica Sault

Additional Information
21 × 21 × 0.5 cm

Niaqualuk and Haugaaq live in Cambridge Bay, Nunavut. There is a big blizzard coming! Haugaaq wishes she could play outside more, but Niaqualuk is excited about playing inside. See what fun things the sisters do all day as the blizzard howls outside.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.

This book is part of the Community Storybooks series. These books tell fun and engaging stories that take place in different communities across Nunavut. Each book was written by an author from the community and has been carefully reviewed for authenticity.

Dual-language/Bilingual: Inuktitut and English

This book is available in Inuktitut and French here!

Additional Information
36 pages | 9.00" x 8.00" | Hardcover

Alaskan Alison Bremner reclaims her ancestral language in this Tlingit coloring book featuring her original art. Alongside each drawing, each animal is identified by their English and Tlingit names. The English and Tlingit sentences below explain each animal’s cultural significance. Tlingit Animals is intended to teach younger generations Tlingit culture and language, in addition to developing reading skills and creativity.

Educator Information
24 pages colouring and language book Tlingit Indigenous Art

Printed in Canada

Additional Information
24 Pages