Stoney-Nakoda

tānisi! my little one, tānisi!

Auntie always greets Cree in Nehiyaw when she comes for a visit. When Auntie arrives with a surprise gift hidden in her bag, Cree can’t wait to discover what it is. The first clue? It’s from the rez. As Cree tries to figure out what it might be, the bag starts to move. Cree is thrilled when the bag opens and out jumps a rez puppy!

Cree asks Auntie how to take care of the new puppy. Auntie talks to Cree about the importance of dogs in their culture. They are our relatives, she explains, and need to be well taken care of. Cree decides she will name her new puppy "Atim", the Nehiyaw word for dog.

Awards

• Winner of the 2021 Second Story Press Indigenous Writing Contest

Reviews
"Everyone has an auntie like the auntie in this book! She is eclectic and kooky and brings surprises that come with important teachings about responsibility and reciprocity.” — Nancy Cooper, First Nations Consultant for the Southern Ontario Library Services and coordinator for First Nation

“The Auntie in this story sounds so cool and I can just imagine how exciting it would be when she came to visit. This story is fun and sweet and has a great message about taking care of our pets and one another.” — Jodie Callaghan, author of Ga’s/The Train

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.

A dual-language edition in English and Plains Cree, Y Dialect, is available: okāwīsimāw omēkiwin askīhkānihk ohci / Auntie's Rez Surprise.

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

Auntie always greets Cree in Nehiyaw when she comes for a visit. When Auntie arrives with a surprise gift hidden in her bag, Cree can’t wait to discover what it is. The first clue? It’s from the rez. As Cree tries to figure out what it might be, the bag starts to move!

Reviews
"Everyone has an auntie like the auntie in this book! She is eclectic and kooky and brings surprises that come with important teachings about responsibility and reciprocity.” — Nancy Cooper, First Nations Consultant for the Southern Ontario Library Services and coordinator for First Nation

“The Auntie in this story sounds so cool and I can just imagine how exciting it would be when she came to visit. This story is fun and sweet and has a great message about taking care of our pets and one another.” — Jodie Callaghan, author of Ga’s/The Train

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 8.

Dual-language edition in English and Plains Cree, Y Dialect. Translated by Dorothy Thunder.

24 pages | 8.50" x 8.50" | Hardcover 

From the author of Hedge Over Heels comes another irresistible story featuring family, friendship, and an adorable baby fox!

Twelve-year-old Skye has just rescued a baby fox she’s named Kitkat, with the help of her Park Ranger cousin Braeden. Skye would usually release the fox back into the wild as soon as it’s healed, but this baby fox was injured by a trap. No one hurts a baby animal and gets away with it as long as Skye’s around, and now she’s on a mission to find the poacher!

When Skye takes Kitkat to the vet, she meets a quiet girl named Ivy. To Skye’s surprise, Ivy decides to join in on the investigation and a friendship starts to form between the girls. But will these new friends uncover the true identity of the poacher and safely release Kitkat back into the wild?

Reviews
"Skye Hunter, along with little brother Leo, spends every summer in Verdant, Massachusetts, with her aunt Lynne, uncle Pete, and park ranger cousin Braeden. Skye, with help from Braeden, rescues a baby fox from a trap baited with poisoned meat in the state park adjacent to their family diner. She names the injured fox Kitcat. At the veterinary clinic, Skye meets a girl named Ivy, who’s a new arrival to Verdant from Saskatchewan and is a member of the Nakoda First Nation. McMullen-Ciotti (Cherokee) has created two intriguing main characters, both of whom are dealing with loneliness. Skye, who has moved a lot and struggled to make friends, slowly grows close to Ivy, even as the girls search for the identity of the poacher, documenting clues while sharing aspects of their respective Indigenous cultures. Suspenseful (but not too scary) moments involve a spooky oddities shop and a search for leads at the public library. The effective combination of animal rescue and sleuthing with themes of friendship and family life make this a strong and appealing choice. Skye’s passion for natural science, Ivy’s skill in caring for animals, aspiring comedian Leo’s humor, and the storytelling of the girls’ uncles round out the story. A charming and engaging tale with special appeal for nature and animal lovers." - Kirkus Reviews

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 8 to 12.

Additional Information
256 pages | 5.25" x 7.62" | Paperback

On a journey to uncover her family’s story, Spotted Fawn travels through time and space to reclaim connection to ancestors, language, and the land in this essential graphic novel.  

In the dreamworld, she bears witness to a mountain of buffalo skulls, a ghostly monument to the slaughter of the buffalo—a key tactic to starve and contain the Indigenous People onto reservations.

Spotted Fawn must travel through her own family history to confront the harsh realities of the past and reignite her connection to her people and the land. Her darkroom becomes a portal, allowing her glimpses into the lives of her relatives. Guided by her ancestors, Spotted Fawn’s travels through the past allow her to come into full face—like the moon itself.

Adapted from the acclaimed stop-motion animated film of the same name, also by Strong, Four Faces of the Moon brings the history of the Michif, Cree, Nakoda, and Anishinaabe Peoples alive on the page.

Backmatter by Dr. Sherry Farrell Racette (Michif), an associate professor of Native Studies and Women’s and Gender Studies at the University of Manitoba, provides information on Michif culture and history.

Awards

• 2023 Snow Willow Award, Saskatchewan, Young Readers' Choice Award
• 2022 Great Graphic Novels for Teens, YALSA

Reviews
“Worthwhile . . . and offers interesting perspectives on the search for Indigenous identity.” — CM Reviews, 03/05/21

“This is magnificent storytelling. This is Spotted Fawn magic.” —Richard Van Camp, author of Little You, and We Sang You Home

“Moving and intense . . . the graphic novel effectively portrays how Indigenous youth can reconnect to their ancestors through art, language, and cultural knowledge.”  — School Library Journal, 04/30/21

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 12+

Unique visuals: This is a groundbreaking project with stunning spreads adapted from award-winning stop-motion animation film of same name. Art is all manipulated and modified stills from the film, that itself uses elaborate sets and puppetry.

This is an #ownvoices story.  Amanda Strong is a member of the Michif Nation.

The book includes a note from the author. Strong did a lot of research about family and their involvement in historical events like the Red River Rebellion, discovering connections to personal and political history later in life. Additional resources at the end of the book by Dr. Sherry Farrell-Racette (Michif), an associate professor of Native Studies and Women’s and Gender Studies at the University of Manitoba, provides information on Michif culture and history and the injustices of colonialism. Includes information on:
1. Moon – cycles, symbols, cultural ties
2. What is a Michif? What is a Métis
3. Historical events
4. Timeline

Additional Information
208 pages | 7.10" x 10.10" | Hardcover 

This is the story of how the Tipi is connected to the creation of life and the mother to the child. When little ones are born, they are slowly let down with a rope into the Tipi. The rope is the Spirit Mother’s umbilical cord, and the cord is the rope that ties the tipi poles together, creating a nest at the top for the baby. When the baby is born, the cord makes its journey to inside the tipi, and then the cord is used to make the baby swing. The Tipi is round like the sun, the moon, a bird's nest, berries, the drum, the Earth and a woman's belly when she is with child. There are 14 poles in a Cree Tipi that represent the 14 laws for living on the Earth. Following these laws makes us good human beings.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 12.

This book is part of the Little Women's Lodge Stories series.

Additional Information
28 pages | 6.00" x 9.00" | Paperback

This is the story of the birth of Kîstin, or “Little Tornado,” and how the baby is brought from Spirit World after choosing its Earth Mother and Father. It tells of connection of the baby’s belly button to Spirit World and to the ancestors, who speak to us through our land, our language, our songs, our ceremonies and our dreams and visions. And if the child trusts in the spirit, it will always watch out for the child.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 12.

This book is part of the Little Women's Lodge Stories series.

Additional Information
36 pages  | 6.00" x 9.00" | Paperback

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"

Transportation, housing, agriculture, communications…there are so many modern conveniences. But are they really modern? Where did they really come from?

Paul Wahasaypa—Siha Tooskin—will learn about their origins and more on his walk home from school with Ade (his father). There’s so much to learn about the earliest forms of technology, travel, medicine, and food from right here on Turtle Island. Come along with Paul and Ade to hear all about the gifts of his people.

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.

This fictional story talks about the earliest forms of technology, travel, medicine, and food and could be used for social studies, explorations of Indigenous technology/history, etc.

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

Thundering drums, rattling hooves, clinking jingles—come along with Paul, Jeff, and Uncle Lenard to the powwow!

Paul Wahasaypa—Siha Tooskin—has invited his friend, Jeff, to a powwow. It’s Jeff’s very first powwow, and is he ever nervous! What if he says or does the wrong thing? Grass dancers, Fancy Shawl dancers, Chicken dancers—what does it all mean? Follow along as Jeff learns all about the dances and their beautiful traditions. See you at the powwow!

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
"Charlene and Wilson have managed to capture the waves of excitement and anxiousness that come with dancing in a powwow. Their storytelling honours the dances and the community that forms around these events. They do not shy away from the negative history of colonization, but do so gently as a means of reinforcing why powwows are so important to our people. Siha Tooskin Knows the Love of Dance, with its words and illustrations, is a love letter to our family, culture, resilience, and pride." - Tanya Talaga, journalist and author

"This wonderful story is about Paul taking Jeff to his first powwow and Jeff learning how to appreciate and understand what a powwow is while also being worried that he will accidentally say something offensive. Jeff learns about the laws in Canada intended to restrict Indigenous activities such as powwows and he is visibly shaken-- not understanding how something so beautiful could be punished. This is such an important message and was handled so well.

Siha Tooskin Knows the Love of the Dance is a book for all ages that encourages readers to learn more about Indigenous groups and terms that are unfamiliar (the book has a glossary at the back). I am so excited to see that this is a series and I have so much more research to do based on the issues and traditions that the book discusses.

This is a book that is very much needed in Canada (although not just Canada) and I cannot articulate enough how much I enjoyed it and how much it will be with me in future. Truly, Charlene Bearhead, Wilson Bearhead, and Chloe Bluebird Mustooch deserve several awards for this book." — Emma Cuneo, NetGalley, September 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.

Themes/Subjects/Keywords: Culture, Family, Friendship, Inclusivity, Nakota, Powwows, Dancing, Regalia.

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.

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

Rocks, grass, trees, birds—what can they possibly teach human beings?

Paul Wahasaypa knows that Ena Makoochay (Mother Earth) gives us many things. On this compelling nature journey with Ena (his mom), we learn how strength, generosity, kindness, and humility are all shown to us by grandfather rocks, towering trees, four-legged ones, and winged ones, reminding us of the part we have to play in this amazing creation. Join Paul and Ena as they experience the beautiful nature of life.

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.

Themes/Keywords/Subjects: Family, Sustainability, Ecology, Environmental Awareness, Nature, Nakota, Mother Earth.

This book also touches on historical events and happenings in Canadian and Indigenous history, such as the banning of potlatches and other ceremonies, residential schools, and more. 

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

This work offers an opportunity to learn the Nakota terminology that is translated in an attached glossary.

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

We can learn many things from the stars, the plants, the animals, and Ena Makoochay (Mother Earth) herself. But how do we show gratitude for the gifts we receive?

Paul Wahasaypa—Siha Tooskin—knows that whether we are taking berries or plants from the earth or knowledge from a learned person it is so important to offer a gift back to show honour and appreciation. Join Paul and his teacher Mrs. Baxter to find out what they discover about the protocol of offering the tobacco plant.

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 Applied Design, English, Science, and Social Studies.

Keywords/Themes/Subjects: Cultural Practices, Tobacco Offering, Plants, Land, Stars, Nakota.

Additional Information
24 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

Our Aboriginal Elders tell of a time when animals and humans could speak to each other. When humans became too greedy and killed more animals than they needed for food, the Creator changed that relationship to protect the animals. So the Creator made a Spirit Animal to represent each one and granted them gifts they could give to people.

Spirit Animals teach, heal and inspire. Turtle carries North America on its back and symbolizes peace and balance. Bear is called “Grandfather” for its strength, leadership, confidence and courage. Coyote gifted us with fire and knowledge of herbs and food. Wolf taught us to hunt and form communities.

This book is a guide, and the meanings of the Spirit Animals featured here are only one interpretation. If you see these Spirit Animals or Totems reflected in your own life, you have received their gift.

Educator Information
Encourages learning of simple kinship phrases in English and Nakota Sioux.

Additional Information
24 pages | 6.99" x 6.99" | Board Book