Indigenous Peoples in Canada

A young boy, troubled by the state of the world, asks for his grandfather’s guidance. On his advice, the boy leaves for a Vision Quest on the land for four days and four nights. He receives teachings from the Grandfather Animals, who say how to walk on Mother Earth by following the Seven Sacred Laws. Now an Elder, Knowledge Keeper, and doctor, the boy shares the teachings with us in this beautiful story about walking the good life. In the accompanying DVD, The Seven Sacred Laws, Elder Dr. David Courchene expands on the story to a rapt audience in the Turtle Lodge.

Educator Information
Recommended by the publisher for grades 5 and under.

Comes with an accompanying DVD and Teacher’s Guide!

In this book, kids will learn how wolverines raise their babies, where they live, what they eat, and other interesting information, like how they use their distinctive scent and how they became known as the gluttons of the animal kingdom!

Reviews
"Niptanatiak shares the scientific facts about the animal in a very accessible and simple way, so despite its factual nature this book feels like anything but a boring textbook. A key focus of the facts is how the wolverine engages with its surroundings and other animals, making it a great way to introduce young readers to the Indigenous concept of relationality." - Excerpt from IBBY Canada's From Sea to Sea to Sea: Celebrating Indigenous Picture Books - 2023 Edition

Educator & Series Information 
This book is part of the non-fiction Animals Illustrated series, which mixes fun-filled animal facts suitable for the youngest of readers with intricately detailed illustrations to create a unique and beautiful collection of children’s non-fiction books on Arctic animals. Each volume contains firsthand accounts from authors who live in the Arctic, along with interesting facts on the behaviours and biology of each animal.

Themes: Nunavut, Inuit, Indigenous, Arctic Animals, STEM

"A key focus of the facts is how the wolverine engages with its surroundings and other animals, making it a great way to introduce young readers to the Indigenous concept of relationality" - From Sea to Sea to Sea 2023 Edition 

Recommended Ages: 6 to 8.

Available in French: Carcajou

Additional Information 
28 pages | 6.50" x 9.00" | Hardcover

"Aadizookaanan or Sacred Stories were passed down for thousands of years, filling the long winter nights with Anishinaabeg oral histories, philosophies, and ceremonies. Bagone-Giizhig is one of the many ancient stories that Anishinaabeg Ancestors have gifted us. The constellations of Wenaboozhoo and Bagone-Giizhig rise in the East during the Winter season. This signifies when it is time to share Aadizookaanan and reminds the Anishinaabeg of where they come from. These cultural Teachings shine bright in the night sky and this is the Anishinaabe way of life." 

Text in English translation and in the original Anishinaabemowin/Ojibwe.

Educator Information
Recommended for grades 4 to 7.

Dual-language: English with the original hand-written Anishinaabemowin version of the story at the back.

Additional Information
61 Pages

In this beautifully illustrated children’s book, readers will experience the world in a new way as they see the seasons through the joyful eyes of Nimkii, a fun, nature-loving dog who will teach them a whole new language: Ojibwemowin, a language spoken by the indigenous tribes in parts of Michigan, Ontario, northern Minnesota and Wisconsin, and Alberta.

Whether hunting for maple trees in the fall, playing in the snow in the winter, enjoying the spring showers, or swimming in the summer, Nimkii seeks out activities that allow her to enjoy her natural surroundings. Fun and inspiring, this bilingual book helps children and adults communicate in new ways while exploring different elements of culture.

Educator Information
Children's Literature

Dual-language: English and Ojibwemowin 

Translated by Margaret Noodin, of the Pine Marten Clan. 

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

What does it take to govern like a girl? A fascinating look at the trailblazing women who rose to the top as first ministers in Canada.

Only twelve women have ever served as the premier of a Canadian province or territory, and only one has risen to the very top to serve as prime minister. In Govern Like a Girl, Kate Graham tells the stories of these thirteen women, from childhood to political power. Their experiences span three decades, every political stripe, and extend from coast to coast to coast. What motivated them to run for office? What did they accomplish once they were elected? And how did their style of governing differ from male politicians?

From Indigenous premiers, Eva Aariak and Nellie Cournoyea, to Premier and later Senator Catherine Callbeck of Prince Edward Island, to Québec's first female premier, Pauline Marois, these powerful women changed Canada for the better and showed the world how to govern like a girl.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 9 to 12.

Includes a glossary and a map of Canada.

Learn about:

Premier Eva Aariak, Nunavut

Premier Catherine Callbeck, Prince Edward Island, and later, Senator

Prime Minister Kim Campbell

Premier Christy Clark, British Columbia

Premier Caroline Cochrane, Northwest Territories

Premier Nellie Cournoyea, Northwest Territories

Premier Pat Duncan, Yukon, and later, Senator

Premier Kathy Dunderdale, Newfoundland and Labrador

Premier Rita Johnston, British Columbia

Premier Pauline Marois, Quebec

Premier Rachel Notley, Alberta

Premier Alison Redford, Alberta

Premier Kathleen Wynne, Ontario

Additional Information
112 pages | 7.50" x 9.00" | 13 b&w illustrations | Paperback

I lost my talk
The talk you took away
When I was a little girl
At Shubenacadie school.

One of Rita Joe's most influential poems, "I Lost My Talk" tells the revered Mi'kmaw Elder's childhood story of losing her language while a resident of the residential school in Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia. An often quoted piece in this era of truth and reconciliation, Joe's powerful words explore and celebrate the survival of Mi'kmaw culture and language despite its attempted eradication.

A companion book to the simultaneously published I'm Finding My Talk by Rebecca Thomas, I Lost My Talk is a necessary reminder of a dark chapter in Canada's history, a powerful reading experience, and an effective teaching tool for young readers of all cultures and backgrounds. Includes a biography of Rita Joe and striking colour illustrations by Mi'kmaw artist Pauline Young.

Reviews
"This picture book version of I Lost My Talk is best read with Rebecca Thomas’s I’m Finding My Talk. These haunting, evocative books bring an original approach to the exploration of Canadian residential schools in picture books. For readers and teachers who appreciate fact-based information, there is also “A Short History of Residential Schools” at the end of I Lost My Talk. Educators, librarians, and families will find their classrooms and book collections invaluably enriched by these books. They are real tools of truth and reconciliation; as such, they belong on every bookshelf in Canada and beyond." - CM Reviews

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 9.

This work features a short history of residential schools and information about the author.

Recommended in the Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 2020/2021 resource list for grades 1-7 for English Language Arts.

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.00" x 10.00"

I'm finding my talk
And it may take some time,
But I'm learning to speak
In a language that's mine.

A response to Rita Joe's iconic poem "I Lost My Talk," and published simultaneously with the new children's book edition illustrated by Pauline Young, comes a companion picture book by award-winning spoken-word artist and Mi'kmaw activist Rebecca Thomas. A second-generation residential school survivor, Thomas writes this response poem openly and honestly, reflecting on the process of working through the destructive effects of colonialism.

From sewing regalia to dancing at powow to learning traditional language, I'm Finding My Talk is about rediscovering her community, and finding culture. Features stunning, vibrant illustrations by Mi'kmaw artist Pauline Young.

Reviews
"Published as a companion to the picture book I Lost My Talk, featuring the famous poem by Rita Joe, both volumes explore the legacy of Canada’s residential schools. They feature vibrant illustrations by Pauline Young that bring the words alive with emotional nuance. This remarkable pair of books possesses the rare ability of being suited to readers of all ages: three to six-year-olds, the traditional intended audience of picture books, will be captivated by the bright, lively illustrations; elementary and middle school children will find their Social Studies curriculum enriched by experiencing these important concepts rendered creatively; teens and adults will gain insight and empathy by enjoying these beautiful poems." - CM Reviews

"[A]n honest reflection on the process of working through the destructive effects of colonialism by participating in cultural connections. This book offers the opportunity to show the journey one takes when rediscovering their community and culture." - The Dalai Lama Center

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 9.

Recommended in the Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 2020/2021 resource list for grades 1-3 in the areas of Social Studies and Language Arts.

Former Halifax Poet Laureate and second-generation residential school survivor Rebecca Thomas writes honestly and powerfully in this companion piece to Rita Joe's I Lost My Talk. Includes vibrant illustrations from Mi'kmaw artist Pauline Young.

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.00" x 10.00"

In these entertaining profiles, twelve Indigenous actors and filmmakers tell stories of the hard work and struggle that went into their careers. Overcoming prejudice and stereotypes in the film industry, fighting to make and promote films that demonstrate an honest portrayal of Indigenous life and heritage. Their stories show how there’s more to filmmaking than acting and directing, including writing, producing, editing, designing, and special effects.

Their accomplishments include acting in major blockbuster films and TV shows, directing prize-winning documentaries, running film programs, and starting a film festival to promote Indigenous voices. These twelve have stood on the shoulders of the Indigenous filmmakers who came before them, and are working to open doors for the next generation. They encourage young people to pursue their dream, and that their stories and ideas are valuable. Includes Tantoo Cardinal, Alanis Obomsawin, and Doreen Manuel.

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.

Recommended for ages 9-14.

Subjects:
Language Arts
> Biography

Reflecting Diversity
> First Nations & Indigenous Peoples

Additional Information
128 pages | 6.00" x 9.00"

"Our Ancestors passed, Adizookaanan, our legends, down for thousands of years, filling the long winter nights with our oral history, philosophy, and ceremonies. Ajijaak is one of our many ancient stories that our Ancestors have gifted us. The many teachings of the animals, the stars, the Clan structures, and the four elements are brought to life through Ajijaak.

Many stories were passed on to Mary as a child. She shared Ajijaak with Leonard. Leonard’s love for the Anishinaabeg and concern that our way of life was being lost especially our oral traditions, decided he would work hard to bring the translation of Ajijaak to readers. Leonard wrote Ajijaak down in Anishinaabemowin and illustrated the story.

Mary and Leonard say our stories are written in the stars, so we can never forget the truth of our existence—we are spirits on a physical journey, with a sacred duty to understand, respect and care for the generous gifts we receive from all the beings who inhabit the earth.

Educator Information
Recommended for grades 5 to 7.

Additional Information
80 Pages | Paperback 

Before maps, compasses, and GPS, Inuit used observation and experience to find their way in the Arctic.

This book describes some of the traditional methods Inuit traditionally used to navigate on the land and sea, including using the sun and stars and looking carefully at snowdrifts. Quotations from Elders preserve this knowledge for future generations.

Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Nunavummi Reading Series, a Nunavut-developed series that supports literacy learning while teaching readers about the people, traditions, and environment of the Canadian Arctic.  It is a Level 18 book in the series.

Curriculum Connections: Indigenous History, Traditional Knowledge about Navigation.

Recommended for ages 10-11.

Additional Information 
30 pages | 8.00" x 10.00" | Colour Photographs | Paperback

Based on ancient Haida narratives, this vibrantly illustrated children's book empowers young people and teaches them to live in harmony with nature.

Haida Gwaii is home to a rich and vibrant culture whose origins date back thousands of years. Today, the Haida People are known throughout Canada and the world for their artistic achievements, their commitment to social justice and environmental protection, and their deep connection to the natural world. Embedded in Haida culture and drawn from ancient oral narratives are a number of Supernatural Beings, many of them female, who embody these connections to the land, the sea, and the sky. Magical Beings of Haida Gwaii features ten of these ancient figures and presents them to children as visually engaging, empowering, and meaningful examples of living in balance with nature. Developed by renowned Haida activist, lawyer, performer, and artist Terri-Lynn Williams-Davidson and Haida educator Sara Florence Davidson, this book challenges stereotypes, helps advance reconciliation, and celebrates Indigenous identity and culture.

Reviews
"Magical Beings of Haida Gwaii is a gentle, powerful collection of words and pictures, stories that hold knowledge, teachings, and traditions for the generations of today and the future. A must-read for those who live on the beautiful island of Haida Gwaii, and any Canadian who wants to learn about one of the many vital Indigenous cultures across Turtle Island." — David A. Robertson, winner of the Governor General’s award for When We Were Alone

"Magical Beings of Haida Gwaii is an enchanting book born of a close relationship and understanding of how we see the world from an Indigenous perspective. There is an intrinsic value to stories recorded from the most natural of primary sources, our families. Terri-Lynn and Sara Davidson have given us a lesson on how to value our Indigenous magical beings as we all have them."— Naa-Jing-Jada, Verna J. Kirkness, educator and author of Creating Space: My Life and Work in Indigenous Education

"An absolute treasure and honouring for the Haida People and for Haida Gwaii, and a marvel of devotion for the world to learn from. Oh I love this book so much! I am in awe of Magical Beings of Haida Gwaii. Every Nation deserves a book as gorgeous and as healing as this one." — Richard Van Camp, award-winning author of Moccasin Square Gardens

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 5 to 8.

Recommended in the Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 2020/2021 resource list for grades 2 to 9 for English Language Arts, Fine Arts, and Social Studies.

Includes a glossary and pronunciation guide at the back. 

A Colouring and Activity Book for this work can be found here: Magical Beings of Haida Gwaii Colouring and Activity Book

Additional Information
64 pages | 8.00" x 10.00" | Paperback

Mother Earth, we come from her, we go to her, without her we wouldn't be here, she gives all of us life and because of her we are all one family. In many segments of Indigenous life we speak of Mother Earth, Father Sky, Grandfather Sun, and Grandmother Moon. Meet Your Family / Gikenim Giniigi'igoog is a rhythmic poem that will enlighten readers on how to view these important figures and share a greater concept of seeing the world as our natural family. Meet Your Family / Gikenim Giniigi'igoog is presented in both English and Ojibway. An additional softcover book written in Ojibway with a phonetics guide is included inside this hardcover book.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.

Dual-language English/Ojibwe book. An additional softcover book in Ojibwe with a language learning guide is included inside the hardcover book.

This book offers a spiritual way of looking at all living things on earth as being connected through Mother Nature.

A teacher lesson plan is available: Meet Your Family Teacher Lesson Plan

This book is available in French and Ojibway: Rencontre ta famille / Gikenim Giniigi'igoog

Additional Information
28 pages | 10.95" x 8.50"

The National Indigenous Diabetes Association (NIDA) envisions diabetes-free communities. Their mission is to lead the promotion of healthy environments and to prevent and manage diabetes by working together with people, communities, and organizations. NIDA Elders partnered with Kayla Perry, registered dietitian with the Diabetes Integration Project, and the Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre (MFNERC) to present this colouring book, which features some traditional plants and animals (Our Relations) from our Elders’ territories and the lands in between.

The purpose of this colouring book is to provide an easy-to-read, visual resource with practical guidance that children and caregivers can use to learn about nutritional information from traditional foods and plants. This resource also shares some teachings and stories attached to these medicines. Traditional foods are plants or animals that are indigenous to the land, meaning they existed naturally on the land before settlers arrived. Food in the form of these plants, fruits, vegetables, or animals is a gift.

NIDA would like to acknowledge that the work for this project took place in the traditional territories of the Dakota, Anishinaabe, Cree, Ojibwe-Cree, and Dene Peoples, and the homeland of the Red River Métis Nation.

Educator Information
Recommended by the publisher for grades 1 and under.

Nuttah and Kitchi National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration is written by Sandra Samatte, Ojibwe - Saulteaux - from Skownan First Nation Treaty 2 Territory and illustrated by Julian Grafenauer, Ojibwe from Rolling River First Nation.

Come celebrate and explore with Nuttah and Kitchi on June 21st, the first day of summer as they experience all the exciting fun-filled activities and events that take place on National Indigenous Peoples Day.

Educator Information
Recommended for grades 2 to 5.

A companion activity book is available: Nuttah & Kitchi National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration Activity Book: Indigenous Teachings and Fun Activities for Everyone

Additional Information
32 Pages | Paperback

Companion book to Nuttah and Kitchi National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration, featuring Indigenous Teachings and Fun Activities for Everyone!

Both resources are written by Sandra Samatte, Ojibwe - Saulteaux - from Skownan First Nation Treaty 2 Territory and illustrated by Julian Grafenauer, Ojibwe from Rolling River First Nation. Come celebrate and explore with Nuttah and Kitchi on June 21st, the first day of summer as they experience all the exciting fun-filled activities and events that take place on National Indigenous Peoples Day.

Educator Information
Recommended for grades 2 to 5.

Find the companion book here: Nuttah & Kitchi National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration

Additional Information
32 Pages | Paperback