Picture Books

Poignant words from award-winning Indigenous author Monique Gray Smith about all the hopes adults have for the young people in their lives.

The hopes we have for the children in our lives are endless. We want our young people to thrive and experience all that life has to offer, but we also feel protective of them. Using simple but powerful statements, Monique Gray Smith delivers a touching message about loving, nurturing and wishing the best for our children. Paired with Gabrielle Grimard's warm and enchanting illustrations, the message in I Hope will resonate with all parents, grandparents and caregivers.

Reviews
"I Hope is a story about adults' hopes for the children in their lives. It speaks to the “hope” of the next generation thriving and experiencing all that life has to offer, even when there is a hesitation to be protective of them. The story focuses on loving, nurturing, and wishing the best for the children in our lives." - The Dalai Lama Center

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.

This book is available in English and Plains Cree: I Hope / nipakoseyimon 

This book is available in French: J'espère

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

Poignant words from award-winning Indigenous author Monique Gray Smith about all the hopes adults have for the young people in their lives.

The hopes we have for the children in our lives are endless. We want our young people to thrive and experience all that life has to offer, but we also feel protective of them. Using simple but powerful statements, Monique Gray Smith delivers a touching message about loving, nurturing and wishing the best for our children. Paired with Gabrielle Grimard's warm and enchanting illustrations, the message in I Hope will resonate with all parents, grandparents and caregivers.

Reviews
“Comforting, encouraging sentiments that adult readers and their little ones will appreciate.” — Kirkus Reviews

“Grimard’s artwork along with Gray Smith’s messages of hope create a synergy and context…Together they successfully teach intangible moments.” — CM: Canadian Review of Materials

"I Hope is a story about adults' hopes for the children in their lives. It speaks to the “hope” of the next generation thriving and experiencing all that life has to offer, even when there is a hesitation to be protective of them. The story focuses on loving, nurturing, and wishing the best for the children in our lives." - The Dalai Lama Center

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.

Dual-language format: English and Plains Cree.

This book is available in English only: I Hope

This book is available in French: J'espère

Cree translation by Dolores Greyeyes Sand.

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

A magical children’s picture book, written in Cree and English, depicting the transformation of a barren landscape into a rich natural world where an elderly couple can spend their remaining days.

Rooted in the historical displacement and relocation of members of the Chemawawin First Nation from their ancestral homeland, The Move is a bilingual story of two Cree Elders adjusting to life in their new environment. The story presents two contrasting landscapes of the old community—the homeland of the Chemawawin People—and the new community of Easterville, which at first appears barren and lifeless. Gradually, the couple begins to incorporate their old customs and traditions into their current surroundings. Family members begin to visit, and eventually nature begins to bloom all around them. Through traditional Cree storytelling techniques and vivid imagery, the new landscape springs to life and becomes a true community, filled with life and happiness.

Reviews
“kā-āciwīkicik / The Move is a small treasure. A wonderful story about memory, land, and kinship, and how language is integral to our relations with each other and with the land and all living things. This is a moving story of hope, wonderfully illustrated in tones that feel like earth, and with translation into Cree it invites us in, like a crackling fireplace in a log cabin, to sit with a cup of tea in hand and learn the old stories.” —Paul Seesequasis, bestselling author of Blanket Toss Under Midnight Sun

“My experience reading kā-āciwīkicik / The Move was profound. From the dreariness of relocation and searching for hope to finding happiness in reconnecting to culture—this story is both educational and poetic. Doris, Don and Alyssa balance healing in two worlds and do it beautifully through words, storyline, and graphics.” —Shayla Raine, author of The Way Creator Sees You

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8.

Dual-Language: Cree and English.

Additional Information
48 pages | Paperback

An Indigenous story about how four extraordinary individuals of dual male and female spirit, or Mahu, brought healing arts from Tahiti to Hawaii, based on the Academy Award–contending short film.

In the 15th century, four Mahu sail from Tahiti to Hawaii and share their gifts of science and healing with the people of Waikiki. The islanders return this gift with a monument of four boulders in their honor, which the Mahu imbue with healing powers before disappearing.
 
As time passes, foreigners inhabit the island and the once-sacred stones are forgotten until the 1960s. Though the true story of these stones was not fully recovered, the power of the Mahu still calls out to those who pass by them at Waikiki Beach today.

With illuminating words and stunning illustrations by Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu, Dean Hamer, Joe Wilson, and Daniel Sousa, Kapaemahu is a monument to an Indigenous Hawaiian legend and a classic in the making.

Additional Information
40 pages | 9.50" x 9.31" | Hardcover

In this Wampanoag story told in a Native tradition, two kids from the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe learn the story of Weeâchumun (corn) and the first Thanksgiving.

The Thanksgiving story that most Americans know celebrates the Pilgrims. But without members of the Wampanoag tribe who already lived on the land where the Pilgrims settled, the Pilgrims would never have made it through their first winter. And without Weeâchumun (corn), the Native people wouldn't have helped.

An important picture book honoring both the history and tradition that surrounds the story of the first Thanksgiving.

Reviews
"A Wamponoag grandmother plants her garden with weeâchumun (corn), beans, and squash, or the Three Sisters. When her grandchildren ask to hear the story of Thanksgiving, N8hkumuhs tells them that their people call it Keepunumuk, “the time of harvest,” and explains what really happened. The tale opens with Seagull warning Weeâchumun—depicted as a woman with a translucent body—of the Pilgrims’ arrival; Weeâchumun worries because many of the First Peoples who cared for her have gone to the Spirit World, and she fears this will be her last winter. Fox keeps an eye out and in spring tells Weeâchumun and her sisters that the newcomers endured a hard winter; many died. Weeâchumun and her sisters want to help: “We will send the First Peoples to help the newcomers.” The Wampanoag people teach the survivors how to plant corn, beans, and squash. The settlers hold a feast to celebrate the harvest; though it’s remembered by many as the first Thanksgiving, backmatter explains that because of the disease and warfare brought by the settlers, for the Wampanoag people, it is remembered as a day of mourning. Rich, saturated acrylics imbued with a touch of magic add to the vibrancy of this important, beautiful story.  A much-needed Thanksgiving retelling that centers the Wamponoag people. (glossary, information on the Wampanoag map, recipes) (Picture book. 3-7)" —Kirkus, starred review

"This picture book features a contemporary Wampanoag grandmother and her grandchildren. N8hkumuhs shares the story of the Three Sisters—Corn, Beans, and Squash—and the first Thanksgiving, known as “Keepunumuk” by the Wampanoag people. The book transitions into a combination of history and storytelling about contact between the “First Peoples” and the newcomers. This format will be novel to some young children given the setting and timeframe of the story, though the book attempts to differentiate the parts that are the story by changing the typeface and including ethereal-like images of the Three Sisters. “Before You Begin” and “Important Words to Know” sections also provide context. Rich back matter includes more information about the Wampanoag tribes, a traditional recipe, and a photo and information about the real Maple and Quill, the grandchildren in the story. Overall, this story is a good addition for the historical knowledge of the first Thanksgiving from the Wampanoag viewpoint. VERDICT: A good choice for libraries striving to share Indigenous perspectives."— School Library Journal

Additional Information
32 pages | 11.38" x 8.81" | Hardcover 

Shawna Davis invites the reader to explore each of the four seasons through her beautiful words and lush, unforgettable, beaded illustrations.

We begin in Gwooyim (Spring) when the Majagalee, the Sim Algyax word for “flower,” are just beginning to sprout. We then move on to Sint (Summer) when Grandmother Sun stays in the sky a bit longer. Next there is Xwsit (Fall), just as Summer begins to get sleepy, and Maadim (Winter) where the snow has fallen and the freezer is full.

This is a story of nature, its importance to our lives, and why it must be cared for and respected.

Toonasa Jordana Luggi’s lovely, rich, and nearly tactile photographs are the perfect complement to Shawna’s hand-beaded artwork and wonderful, hand-cut paper backgrounds.

Includes Pronunciation Guides.

Reviews
“...simple, evocative poetry is culturally specific, rooted in a deep love of the land and the people around her but it’s also relatable to readers of different backgrounds. The lyrical verse in Majagalee makes it an ideal read-aloud book.... Majagalee is an elevated concept book. It introduces readers to the seasons, the plants and animals of the Northwest Coast, Sim Algyax, Indigenous art, and the importance of all these things to Gitksan culture. Despite its apparent simplicity, Majagalee is a complex and brilliantly constructed book. It will appeal to Indigenous and non-Indigenous readers alike, and for teachers and parents, it serves as an outstanding example of a book that demonstrates the ongoing presence and beauty of Indigenous cultures in what is now known as Canada..” – Quill & Quire, starred review

Educator Information
Juvenile Fiction. This picture book explores the four seasons on the northwest coast of what is currently British Columbia from a Gitksan perspective.

Additional information
Pages: 40 

Three young cousins explore the woods in search of medicines that heal and purify, also gathering advice from wise beings who offer life lessons cherished through generations.

“I’m running low on medicines,” says Grandma Mindy. At once, Lily, Ogimaa, and Ellie are ready to help. Together they will travel Mashkiki Road—the road where the medicines grow—in search of sage and cedar for Grandma.

Not too far into the woods, they encounter Makwa (Bear), who introduces them to the Seven Grandfather Teachings. Makwa advises them to have the courage to do what is right. Farther along the path they meet Sa’be (Bigfoot), who represents honesty, and Mashkode-Bizhiikii (Buffalo), who encourages respect. When the cousins reach a grove of sage plants, they know what to do. They put out tobacco, give thanks, and gather just the amount Grandma needs—no more, no less.

As they continue on Mashkiki Road, they meet Ma’iingan (Wolf), Amik (Beaver), and Mikinaak (Turtle), who each offer their own lessons. At the cedar grove, the children put out tobacco, give thanks, and gather what they need. As they head home at last, Migizi (Eagle) glides by to assure them he has been watching over their journey. Migizi offers the seventh Grandfather Teaching: love.

Back at Grandma’s, Lily, Ogimaa, and Ellie have much treasure to share: cedar and sage from Mashkiki Road, and also tales of the wisdom they gained along the way.

Reviews
"Native teachings are at the center of this beautiful children's picture book by two members of the Red Lake Ojibwe.... Their partnership is a winner. Barrett’s lyrical text is perfectly complemented by Thunder’s contemporary illustrations."- St. Paul Pioneer Press

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 7.

Includes a Glossary of Ojibwe words used in the story.

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

Morning Song is a Cree girl who lives on a reserve. She does not like to eat vegetables because she thinks they are not important and do not taste good. One day, she goes on a walk and stumbles upon a magic garden where vegetables can talk. Morning Song meets carrots, cabbage, cucumbers, potatoes, pumpkins and other vegetables which explain her why each of them is an important part of a healthy diet. The book teaches children about the importance of eating healthy and living a happy and active lifestyle.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8.

Additional Information
26 pages | 8.00" x 8.00" | Paperback

A girl lovingly tends to her garden through the seasons.

In the depths of winter, one young girl is already dreaming of planting her very own vegetable garden. In January, she sketches out the rows of lettuce, the trellis for the peas, and a large plot for the tomatoes while she waits for warmer weather. March is time for sowing, and April gives way to the first leaves of her seedlings.

As the seasons change from spring to summer, she (with the help of her moms) spreads compost and turns up the soil to finally plant her veggies into the earth. As the months go by, she lovingly weeds, waters, and cares for her garden until it’s time to harvest a bounty big enough to share with all their friends! My Delicious Garden celebrates the joy of growing food from seed and is a cozy exploration of the connections between nature, food, and community.

Reviews
"The unique monthly focus is an interesting and helpful take on gardening; readers will learn about different types of vegetables and flowers equally. Whether there is a garden at school or not, this is a charming addition to the shelves and could be adapted to a very early science lesson for preschoolers, too." — School Library Journal

"All children will be inspired to grow their own gardens, and those children who live in urban environments will understand and appreciate the work, time, and patience, not to mention the joy and sense of accomplishment, it takes to maintain a garden." — School Library Connection

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8. 

Keywords and Themes: Gardening, Science, Nature, Cooking, Food, Outdoor Activities, Outdoor Learning

Additional Information
24 pages | 9.00" x 9.00" | Hardcover 

"Oof! My hood is not big enough!" said Mother Fox. Who will help her?

Mother Fox loves all her babies so much. But when she tries to carry all eight of her babies on her back, her hood's not big enough! What will she do? See how her family offers to help as Mother Fox learns she does not need to carry all her babies alone.

Snuggle up and enjoy a sweet story about motherhood and family in this sweet bilingual picture book.

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 3 - 5.

This is an Arvaaq Book. Books in this series are intended for infants and very young children and are designed to help children develop physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and language skills.

Includes activities for parents and teachers in a Let's Talk section.

Additional Information
24 pages | 11.00" x 14.00" | Hardcover

Maniq loves her ittu (short for ittupajaaq, an Inuktitut word for grandfather). He’s brave—enough to wrestle the grumpiest polar bear, if he ever needed to! He’s tall—enough to see over the tallest mountain tops. He’s generous—enough to walk through a blizzard to make sure others have delicious food to eat. And above all, he loves his grandkids, every single one of them—and there must be close to one hundred, by Maniq’s count at least!

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.

Additional Information
28 pages | 9.50" x 8.50" | Hardcover 

A joyful picture book about confidence featuring a little girl making her mark on the world, from acclaimed author Thomas King.

Lala wakes up one morning and decides that she owns the world. Quick as a fox, she bounds to her box of treasures and finds her shiny red dots — to mark what is hers, because there's nothing that's not!

Lala's bear gets a dot, as does her blankie, boots, and even the markers she uses to make scrawls on her walls. When she finishes labeling everything in her room and goes to label her dad-daddy’s socks, Lala realizes that she’s out of dots! But when Lala discovers that she can simply create her own red dots, will anything be safe from Lala?

Join rambunctious Lala on her quest to own the world in this joyful picture book that celebrates confidence and positive thinking.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 7.

Additional Information
40 pages | 10.00" x 10.00" | Hardcover

A debut picture book that explores the importance of pronouncing names properly and celebrates cultural identity.

Saajin loves his name—he loves it so much that he sees it spelled out in the world around him in his snacks, in the sky and sometimes he even sings it aloud. On his first day of school, Saajin is excited to meet his new classmates, but things take a turn when the teacher mispronounces his name as Say-jin and he is not sure how—or if he should—correct her. After trying to live with the different version of his name for a while and some thoughtful conversations with his family about the meaning behind it, Saajin realizes the importance of reclaiming his name and embracing his identity. This empowering story, accompanied by energetic and vibrant art by Samrath Kaur, will resonate with any reader who has ever felt misunderstood.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 7.

Additional Information
36 pages | 8.00" x 10.00" | Hardcover 

The beloved traditional English Christmas carol, The Twelve Days of Christmas, has been adapted here to reflect aspects of the richly varied cultures and traditions of twelve Native American cultural groups from different parts of the U.S. A cultural background is included for each day's gift in an easy-to-understand manner, placing the adapted song lyrics in the context of these tribal cultures. 

Educator Information
Recommended for grades 1 to 5.

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.25" x 11.75"

“We need to be careful that we don’t hurt the gifts that are given to us.” Told in Plains Cree, Saulteaux, and English, this simple tale of traditional teachings and values follows a grandparent and grandchild on a visit to a chokecherry patch, where lessons about respect and gratitude for the earth’s gifts are shared.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3+

Triple-language format: Plains Cree, Saulteaux, and English.

An afterword includes a Saulteaux and Plains Cree pronunciation guide.

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