Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 8 - 12 2024 - 2025

The Anishinaabek are a rich nation with teachings and practices passed down from generation to generation. Explore more about the people and nations through Anishinaabek author Jennifer Meness.

Reviews
"Anishinaabek: The People and Nations, written by Jennifer Meness of the Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn First Nation, is part of the Indigenous Nations in North America nonfiction series. The author presents an Anishinaabe perspective on Canadian history, from early contact with Europeans to the Indian Act of 1876 and the residential school system, alongside an overview of traditional and contemporary Anishinaabe culture. Through Anishinaabemowin, role models, and narrative forms like Traditional Stories and testimonies, the book offers a multi-dimensional introduction to Anishinaabe life, past and present. A case study on the lack of clean drinking water in an Anishinaabe community highlights a critical social justice issue affecting many First Nations. Educators can use the book in full or by chapter to support lessons on Anishinaabe culture and language, Canadian history, and the legacy of residential schools. Both a learning tool and a prompt for reflection, the book fosters social awareness. A list of additional Anishinaabe resources is included at the end. Cautions / Content Warnings: Residential school abuse, 215 unmarked graves at former Kamloops Residential School, mental health challenges (depression and anxiety) and substance abuse." - Bonny-Lynn D., Elementary School Teacher, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Indigenous Nations in North America series.

This book is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for Grades 6 to 8 for Social Studies.

Additional Information
32 Pages | Paperback

The award-winning Righting Canada's Wrongs series is now available in French for Immersion classrooms!

Starting in 1951, Indigenous children in Canada were taken by social welfare agencies from their families and placed in the care of non-Indigenous families. These children grew up without their birth families, cultural roots, and language. Many tried to run away and some died in the attempt. The taking of the children is known as the Sixties Scoop, though the policies and practices started before the 1960s and lasted long after. Today, Indigenous children are shockingly over-represented in the child welfare system across Canada.

Indigenous communities organized and fought back for their children. In 1985, an official government report condemned the practice.

In the 1990s, lawsuits were filed against the governments who had supported taking the children. In 2018 and 2019, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba apologized for their roles. In 2020, the Canadian government agreed to a settlement for survivors of the Scoop.

Through hundreds of photos and primary documents, readers meet many survivors of the Scoop. They learn how Indigenous communities fought back to save their children and won, and how Indigenous communities across Canada are working towards healing today.

Reviews
“The Sixties Scoop and the Stolen Lives of Indigenous Children embraces complexity in the history it tells, which is further enhanced by the inclusion of first-hand accounts from survivors of the Scoop. Their stories provide a plurality of experiences, adding additional nuance to the book… It is timely and well-researched, an excellent resource for teachers, librarians, and parents interested in educating young people about the harms these policies had – and continue to have – on Indigenous communities, as well as the continued overrepresentation of Indigenous children in care.” — Quill & Quire

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for ages 13 to 18.

This French book is part of the series Redresser les torts du Canada (Righting Canada's Wrongs series in French).

This book is available in English: Righting Canada's Wrongs: The Sixties Scoop and the Stolen Lives of Indigenous Children

This title is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC as a recommended resource for Grades 10 to 12 for Family Studies, Social Studies, and Career Education. 

Additional Information
8.50" x 11.69" | 300 Photographs | Paperback 

Secwépemc elder, matriarch and knowledge-keeper Cecilia DeRose presents her powerful, heartfelt and inspiring memoir of overcoming racism and adversity—One Arrow Left is a celebration of Secwépemc culture, language and the importance of passing on this knowledge to future generations.

Born in 1935 in the village of Esket, Cecilia DeRose was welcomed into a loving, supportive Secwepemc family. Growing up in an isolated meadow, Cecilia was the fourth of ten children, spending much of her early years caring for younger siblings. Ranch life was in their blood; Cecilia’s mother, Amelia Joe, was the progeny of a white ranch hand, Joe Smith, and her Secwepemc mother, Martha Williams; her father, Matthew Dick, was well-known in the Williams Lake rodeo circuit and played for the famous Alkali Braves hockey team. Navigating the complexities of being a mixed-race family, both within and outside of the Secwepemc community, would be a lifelong source of tension, which Cecilia handles with grace, tenacity and humour.

Like their parents before them, Cecilia and her siblings were sent to St. Joseph’s Mission residential school near Williams Lake. At seven years old she eagerly awaited her turn to join her older sister and brother at the mission, where she could escape the drudgery of washing diapers and caring for her younger siblings at home. Nothing could have prepared her for the cruelty of institutionalized life. Dreams of an education that might lead to a career as a teacher, lawyer, or journalist were dashed. Residential school was hell, and Cecilia was left with the scars to prove it.

In 1956, Cecilia married non-Indigenous ranch hand Lenny DeRose and lost her Indigenous status. Nevertheless, on the insistence of her father Matthew Dick, Cecilia remained true to her Secwepemc roots and traditions. She eventually regained her status and became an ambassador of Secwepemc language and cultural practices. As she raised her own six children, she took great care to bestow in them the cultural teachings of the Secwepemc identity. She eventually taught the Secwepemcstin language in the public-school system, fulfilling her dream of teaching and reinforcing her belief that “we have one arrow left in our quiver and that’s education—we must use it wisely.”

Today, Cecilia is recognized nationally as an Indigenous knowledge keeper. She has provided cross-cultural training for hospitals, courts, and law enforcement institutions, and shared her knowledge on projects ranging from ethnobotany research to culturally safe elder care. In 2018, she received the Indspire Award for Culture, Heritage and Spirituality. In 2024, she was honoured by Thompson Rivers University with a Doctor of Letter, honoris causa, for her indispensable contributions to language revitalization.

Reviews
"This memoir would make a valuable addition to high school libraries, offering students insight into historical and contemporary perspectives on Indigenous people, places, events, and their lasting impacts. The knowledge Dick DeRose gained through her lived experiences became a foundation for her work as a respected language and cultural teacher." - Debra H., Elementary School Teacher, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator Information
This book is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for Grade 12 Social Studies.

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

Hoping to snag their perfect home in a red-hot housing market, an African Canadian man, a Chinese Canadian man, and a Jewish/Indigenous lesbian couple show up to an open house run by a white settler real estate agent. Each potential buyer feels most deserving of the prize. When a police incident outside traps them together in the house, debate erupts over which of their cultures has faced the most discrimination and exclusion. Passions run high and opinions clash. With wry humour, Open House deftly navigates current conversations about oppression, colonization, and middle-class aspirations.

Reviews
"This play connects well with Social Studies curriculum, as it allows us to understand the impact of negative comments, actions, and perceptions that continue to occur in society today. Open House encourages discussions about gender, identity, race, and colonization, allowing students to gain perspective and awareness." - Shaniah H., K-12 Teacher, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator Information
This book is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for 11 and 12 for Drama and Social Studies.

Additional Information
5.82" x 8.26" | Paperback 

A teenage girl walks home in a burgeoning blizzard, happy to have an unexpected snow day. Ignoring an Elder’s warning about the terror the blizzard holds, she finds herself alone in her home with an unseen presence stalking and tormenting her. What does it want? And will she survive?

Reviews
"Aviaq Johnston’s graphic novel The Haunted Blizzard draws readers into a chilling tale of mystery and unease. The story follows a young girl, Nita, sent home when school closes due to a blizzard. Along the way, her grandmother warns her the storm is filled with dark forces, but Nita brushes off the caution and continues home alone. As the storm rages, Nita soon realizes she should have heeded her grandmother’s words—something sinister is lurking in the blizzard. Johnston blends suspense with cultural wisdom in this gripping, forty-page story that leaves readers on edge and eager for more." -  Debra H., Elementary School Teacher, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 12 to 18.

This title is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It's recommended for Grades 8 to 12 for Art, Drama, and English Language Arts.

Additional Information
40 pages | 7.00" x 9.00" | Hardcover 

Only 19 years old, Autumn Peltier has achieved so much by advocating for her community. Discover more about her advocacy for Indigenous peoples and clean water.

Reviews
"Autumn Peltier tells the inspiring story of a young Indigenous woman who has devoted her life to protecting water and advocating for clean, safe water on reserves across Canada. Her great-aunt, Josephine Mandamin, was a respected water protector and served as the Chief Water Commissioner for the Anishinabek Nation. Inspired by her aunt, Autumn recognized the importance of water at a young age and, at just 13 years old, addressed the United Nations for the first time. When Josephine passed away, Autumn—only 15 years old—was named the new Chief Water Commissioner. As a young Indigenous leader, Autumn Peltier is a powerful role model who continues to make a meaningful impact. This book would make an excellent read-aloud in the classroom." - Debra H., Elementary School Teacher, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator Information
Juvenile Nonfiction.

This book is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for Grades 4 to 8 for Social Studies, Science, Physical and Health Education, and Career Education. 

Additional Information
24 Pages

Returning to his favourite setting of Fort Simmer, Northwest Territories, Richard Van Camp brings his exuberant style to a captivating teen novel that blends the supernatural with 1980s-era nostalgia to reflect on friendship, tradition and forgiveness.

For as long as Lawson can remember, his life in a small Northwest Territories town has revolved around “the Treaty” between the Dogrib and the Chipewyan, set down centuries ago to prevent the return of bloody warfare between the two peoples.

On the Dogrib side, Lawson and his family have done their best to keep the pact alive with the neighbouring Cranes, a family with ancestral ties to a revered Chipewyan war chief. But even as Lawson and his father dutifully tidy the Cranes’ property as an act of respect, their counterparts offer little more than scowls and derision in return, despite the fact that both families are responsible for protecting the treaty.

Worse still, it seems that one of the Cranes’ boys is doing all he can to revive the old conflict: Silver, fresh out of jail, has placed himself in the service of a cruel, ghoulish spirit bent on destroying the peace. Now it's up to Isaiah Valentine, a Cree Grass Dancer, Shari Burns, a Metis psychic, and Lawson Sauron, a Dogrib Yabati—or protector—to face what Silver Cranes has called back.

This latest feat of storytelling magic by celebrated author Richard Van Camp blends sharply observed realism and hair-raising horror as it plays out against a 1980s-era backdrop replete with Platinum Blonde songs and episodes of Degrassi Junior High. Unfolding in the fictional town of Fort Simmer—the setting of previous Van Camp stories—Beast delivers a gripping, spirited tale that pits the powers of tradition against the pull of a vengeful past.

Reviews
"Beast opens conversations about culture, traditions, and supernatural beings, allowing us to understand the importance of community, finding our purpose/gifts, and supporting one another in community. Beast covers topics such as grief, intention setting, and the importance of culture and traditions in Indigenous communities." - Shaniah H., K-12 Teacher, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator Information
Young adult fiction.

This book is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for Grades 8 to 12 for English Language Arts.

Content Warning: Violence, fighting, horror, and suspense. 

Additional Information
312 pages | 5.50" x 8.50" | Paperback

In this engrossing graphic novel, teen hockey player Chase learns more about himself and his identity in the face of prejudice and homophobia.

Thirteen-year-old Chase’s life and identity should be simple. He’s the goalie for his hockey team, the Eagles. He’s a friend to Kevin and Jade. He's Kookum's youngest grandchild. He’s a boy. He should like girls.

But it’s not that simple. Chase doesn’t like girls the way that the other boys do. It’s scary being so different from his peers. Scarier still is the feeling that his teammates can tell who he is—and that they hate him for it. If he pretends hard enough, maybe he can hide the truth.

Real strength and change can’t come from a place of shame. Chase’s dreams are troubled by visions of a bear spirit, and the more he tries to hide, the more everything falls apart. With the help of an Elder, and a Two-Spirit mentor, can Chase find the strength to be proud of who he is?

Between the Pipes explores toxic masculinity in hockey through the experiences of an Indigenous teen.

Reviews
“Highlights the importance of community and cultural connection as roots for embracing one’s identity.” — Kirkus Reviews

“The authors deftly confront multiple layers of intolerance exacerbated by toxic masculinity. Ojibwe artist RL uses saturated full color (with well-placed, empowering rainbows) to capture Chase’s self-empowering journey. The result is a compelling, hope-giving antidote against potential at-risk suicide among 2-Spirit/Indigenous LGBTQQIA+ youth.” — Booklist

“This hopeful...story offers valuable insight into Chase’s experience as a gay, Indigenous teen. Hockey and identity collide in this affirming graphic novel about recognizing and valuing one’s authentic self.” — School Library Journal

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 12 - 18.

Reading Level: Fountas & Pinnell Y

This book is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for Grades 6 to 9 for Career Education, English Language Arts, Physical and Health Education, and Social Studies. 

Caution: Bullying and homophobia.

Additional Information
56 pages | 6.50" x 10.00" | Paperback

Eva and Cole are back just in time to face Mihko’s latest threat: the terrifying results of human experimentation.

Cole and Eva are reunited once more. A new terror looms as Mihko Laboratories latest human experiments are about to be unleashed. Cole is on the long road to recovery, but he’s still struggling with survivor’s guilt. He must stay focused as he, Eva, and their friends prepare for the final showdown with Mihko.

After the events of Version Control, Brady’s mind is fractured, and he can’t distinguish between what really happened and what Mikho made him believe. Eva and Cole may have to face this terrifying threat without him. It’s a grim prospect, but a new discovery might just change everything: God Flare.

Will Brady recover enough to join the fight? Can Cole come to terms with his abilities in spite of his PTSD? And will God Flare help even the odds against Mihko?

Reviews
"The art style is realistic and gritty, reflecting the serious and dystopian tone of the story. Colors are dark and muted, actions are clear, and special effects of the supernatural pop off the page, a marked contrast to more normal backgrounds and objects.” — Youth Services Book Review

"In this graphic novel, Cole, Eva, and their friends confront the organization that imposed mind control upon them. Interwoven into the story is Cole’s struggle to overcome his past childhood trauma. Identity, the strength of friendships, acts of resistance, the importance of cultural safety, and supernatural elements are explored within the novel. Students who appreciate science fiction and fantasy will find this graphic storytelling, along with Scott B. Henderson’s artwork, engaging. The dialogue reflects the authentic voices of Indigenous youth Educators should handle this book with care, as some of its language may be considered unsuitable for the classroom. For a complete understanding of the plot, it is recommended that this book be read sequentially after the first two volumes. Cautions / Content Warnings: Coarse language, smoking, and graphic violence." - Stacey M., High School Teacher, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator & Series Information
Recommended for grades 8 to 12.

This book is part of the graphic novel series, The Reckoner Rises, a continuation of The Reckoner trilogy.  It is Book 3 in the series.

This book is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for Grades 10 to 12 for English Language Arts and Social Studies. 

Cautions: This work contains strong, coarse language, smoking, and depictions of graphic violence. 

Additional Information
72 pages | 6.50" x 10.00" | Paperback

In this moving graphic novel, thirteen-year-old Reanna grieves the loss of her older sister. Can she find comfort through her family’s Ojibwe traditions?

It’s been a year since Reanna’s sister, Chelsea, went missing on her way home from school. Without any idea of what happened, Reanna and her family struggle to find closure.

Driven from their home by memories, Reanna’s mom moves to the big city. Left behind on the reserve, Reanna and her little brother go to live with their dad.

Reanna is hurt and angry that her mom has run away. She feels lonely, abandoned… but she is not alone. Lights turn on in empty rooms, and objects move without being touched.

There are little moons everywhere.

Reviews
"Little Moons has all the hallmarks of becoming a cherished companion for young hearts navigating the turbulent waters of grief and loss. This graphic novel not only offers solace but also illuminates the path toward healing. Little Moons gently guides readers through the darkest of nights, reminding them that even in moments of profound sadness, there is still light to be found."—Tasha Spillett, New York Times bestselling author 

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 12 to 18.

Subjects, Themes, and Big Ideas: Death, Grief, Siblings, Paranormal, Graphic Novels, Socail Justice, MMIWG2S, Prejudice and Racism, Social Emotional Learning, Aspects of Indigenous Cultures, Smudging, Powwow, Spirituality and Ceremony, Regalia, Traditional Art, Contemporary Setting, Strong Female Characters.

Fountas & Pinnell Z+

Includes a note from the author on Mourning Traditions.

This book is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for Grades 6 to 12 for English Language Arts, Family Studies, Physical and Health Education, and Social Studies.

Additional Information
64 pages | 6.50" x 10.00" | Paperback

Originally from the community of Ekuanitshit (Mingan) in the Lower North Shore region of Quebec, Cousineau-Mollen was adopted at a very young age by an urban family as part of what is now known as the Sixties Scoop. Although Cousineau-Mollen did not grow up in an Indigenous community, her adoptive family maintained contact with her biological family, ensuring she remained connected to her culture and identity. Having faced adversity and rejection during her studies at Laval University due to her Indian Status, she has since worked to build and support community initiatives, through Aboriginal student associations and involvement in the Wolf Pack Street Patrol, for the Indigenous homeless people of Montreal. In The Liturgy of Savage No. 82, Cousineau-Mollen reclaims, honours, and makes space for herself and the rights of Indigenous women. A powerful and emotional poetry collection, The Liturgy of Savage No. 82 explores the realities facing Indigenous women in Canada and the emotional impact of homelessness, intergenerational trauma and systemic racism, all through a feminist lens as she considers the implications of femininity and identity in relation to the unceded land of her people.

Reviews
“Cousineau-Mollen’s poetry embodies resilience, and how the impact of colonization has affected Indigenous peoples, and First Nation women in particular.”—Shannon Webb-Campbell, Muskrat Magazine on Bréviaire du matricule 082 (Éditions Hannenorak, 2019)

"Originally published in French, Mollen’s Liturgy of Savage No. 82 is a deep and profound poetic exploration that examines themes such as colonization, residential schools, the Indian Act, feminism, and resistance. Mollen’s work is a reclaiming—through language and cultural resurgence—and requires recognition of both the oppressed and empowered experiences of an Indigenous woman in Canada. This edition also includes a glossary of language terms that invites the reader to experience even deeper understandings through the multidimensional expression of language. Cautions / Content Warnings: Some problematic language (e.g., “squaw”), and sexual content and themes." - Lori B., Indigenous Educator & Administrator, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator Information
This book is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for Grades 10 to 12 for English Language Arts, Art, and Social Studies.

Content Warning: Sexual content and strong language.

Additional Information
72 pages | 5.50" x 8.00" | Paperback 

Iskwew Pithasew nitisithikason. My name is Lady of the Thunderbird, and this is my story.

It takes courage and bravery to survive in the barrens.

In 1944, thirteen-year-old Ilse Schweder got lost in a snowstorm while checking her family's trapline in northern Canada. This is the harrowing story of how a young Indigenous girl defies the odds and endures nine days alone in the unforgiving barrens. Ilse faces many challenges, including freezing temperatures, wild animals, snow blindness and frostbite. With no food or supplies, she relies on Traditional Indigenous Knowledge passed down from her family. Ilse uses her connection to the land and animals, wilderness skills and resilience to find her way home.

This powerful tale of survival is written by Ilse Schweder's granddaughter.

Reviews
“Colorful illustrations in classic comic-book style help readers explore the challenging landscape. An excellent choice for a book report and good addition to a children’s nonfiction collection.”- School Library Journal (SLJ), starred review

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 9 to 12.

Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient: T 
Lexile measure: GN700L 
Guided Reading Level: T

This book is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for Grades 4 to 9 for English Language Arts, Physical and Health Education, and Social Studies.

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

Reclaiming crops and culture on Turtle Island

Manomin, more commonly known by its English misnomer "wild rice," is the only cereal grain native to Turtle Island (North America). Long central to Indigenous societies and diets, this complex carbohydrate is seen by the Anishinaabeg as a gift from Creator, a "spirit berry" that has allowed the Nation to flourish for generations. Manomin: Caring for Ecosystems and Each Other offers a community-engaged analysis of the under-studied grain, weaving together the voices of scholars, chefs, harvesters, engineers, poets, and artists to share the plant's many lessons about the living relationships between all forms of creation.

Grounded in Indigenous methodologies and rendered in full colour, Manomin reveals and examines our interconnectedness through a variety of disciplines-history, food studies, ethnobotany, ecology-and forms of expression, including recipes, stories, and photos. A powerful contribution to conversations on Indigenous food security and food sovereignty, the collection explores historic uses of Manomin, contemporary challenges to Indigenous aquaculture, and future possibilities for restoring the sacred crop as a staple.

In our time of ecological crisis, Manomin teaches us how to live well in the world, sustaining our relations with each other, our food, and our waterways.

Reviews
"This book is absolutely amazing and one of the most original collections that I have read in many years. Intended for everyone who inhabits Turtle Island-Indigenous and settler alike-Manomin encourages readers to develop deeper relationships and understandings by listening to Elders and the land. I believe Manomin will transform Indigenous scholarship." — Michael Dockry, University of Minnesota

"Manomin teaches us much; how to observe, the need for biodiversity, and the understanding that there will be rice somewhere else, on different years, based on water levels. Manomin has provided food during the harshest of times. We were told that we should care for our water and there would be rice. There are lakes where Manomin has been drowned by the state and provincial authorities, raising water levels for recreational boats. For many years the Mille Lacs band of Anishinaabe tried to get the water levels corrected for the rice to flourish on Onamia and Omeme Lakes. At one of those lakes, the water levels went down in a drought, and the Manomin returned, seventeen years later. At another lake it was fifty years later. The Manomin returned when the conditions were right. That reminds us, like this book, of the resilience of seeds, the resilience of life, and our agreement to care for all. This book is a blessing of teachings and acknowledgment for the great gift of Manomin." — Winona LaDuke, To Be a Water Protector: Rise of the Wiindigoo Slayers

"Manomin: Caring for Ecosystems and Each Other is a collection of essays, recipes, and Anishinaabe traditional ecological understandings co-authored by the Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation and Elders from the community. This book compels the reader to consider plants as sentient beings in connection with the “Seven Generations Principle,” connecting us to the belief that “we are all related and life is sacred.” Each essay exploration is paired with glossy colour and black-and-white photos of historical and contemporary plant knowledge connected to “wild rice” with accompanying illustrated recipes centred in Indigenous foodways.
There is also a specific section on copyright addressing Indigenous understandings, intellectual and Traditional Knowledge and language, which can be considered groundbreaking as a precedent in itself. This book can be enjoyed over and over again, as there is so much that could be transformative to our understanding of plant and human relationships." — Lori B., Indigenous Educator & Administrator, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator Information
Topics: Environmental Studies, History, Indigenous Studies, Decolonization, Agriculture and Food, Ethnobotany, History, Food Studies.

Table of Contents
List of Illustrations

A Note on Language by Brittany Luby and Margaret Lehman

Introduction by Brittany Luby, Samantha Mehltretter, and Margaret Lehman with Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation

Ch.1 Manitou Gitaggan, the Great Spirit’s Garden by Kezhii’aanakwat Ron Kelly, Giizhiigokwe Sandra Indian, Patees Dorothy Copenace, and Kathi Avery Kinew

Ch.2 Migration by Edward Benton-Banai

Ch.3 Seeds and Soils by Victoria Jackson

Manomin and Bergamot by Sean Sherman

Ch.4 Manomin as Teacher by Brittany Luby with Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation

Images from Anishinaabe-Aki: Harvest

Ch.5 Relational Vocabularies by Joseph Pitawanakwat

Manomin, Berries, and Love by Michelle Johnson-Jennings, PhD

Ch.6 Environmental Change, Environmental Care by Samantha Mehltretter and Andrea Bradford with Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation

Images from Anishinaabe-Aki: The Seasons by Andrea Bradford

Ch.7 Disconnection by Hannah Tait Neufeld

Manomin and Mushrooms by Shane Chartrand

Ch.8 Treaty and Mushkiki by Jana-Rae Yerxa and Pikanagegaabo, William Yerxa

Ch.9 Promise by Kristi Leora Gansworth

Epilogue by Andrea Bradford and Brittany Luby

Appendix 1: A Recipe for Corn Soup

Appendix 2: A Note on Indigenous Language Rights

Glossary by Jane Mariotti

Contributors

Notes

Selected Bibliography

This book is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for Grade 9 to 12 classrooms for English Language Arts, Family Studies, Foods, Science, and Social Studies. 

Additional Information
240 pages | 6.00" x 8.50" | 40 colour illustrations, 2 maps, index, bibliography | Paperback 

Explores the integral roles that Métis women assumed to ensure the survival of their communities during the fur trade era and onward

Métis Matriarchs examines the roles of prominent Métis women from across Western Canada from the late 19th to the mid-20th century, providing a rare glimpse into the everyday lives of these remarkable women who were recognized as Matriarchs and respected for their knowledge, expertise, and authority within their families and communities.

This edited collection provides an opportunity to learn about the significant contributions made by Métis women during a transitional period in Western Canadian history as the fur trade gave way to a more sedentary, industrialized, and agrarian economy. Challenging how we think about Western Canadian settlement processes that removed Indigenous peoples from the land, this collection of stories examines the ways Métis matriarchs responded to colonial and settler colonial interventions into their lives and livelihoods and ultimately ensured the cultural survival of their communities.

Awards

• 2025 Canadian Historical Association Indigenous History Book Prize

Reviews
“A nuanced account of the lives of Métis women and their vital roles as they helped guide their families and communities through generations of transitions.” —Michel Hogue, author of Metis and the Medicine Line

"This is a wonderful resource for Social Studies, as these stories help understand how changes in government, land, and economic systems have impacted Métis communities across Canada. Métis Matriarchs would also be a good fit for Family Studies, as it allows us to understand the importance of matriarchs in society, including family and community dynamics, and how those have shifted through time." - Shaniah H., K-12 Teacher, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator Information
This book is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for Grades 10 to 12 for Family Studies and Social Studies. 

Additional Information
336 pages | 5.00" x 8.00"| Paperback

A user-friendly guide that teaches core Nakoda vocabulary and how to use it in conversation

Practising Nakoda contains basic Nakoda vocabulary, organized into 30 themes (such as animals, clothing, directions, and time) and divided into sections meant to enhance daily and ceremonial communication (including dances, ceremonies, and ceremonial clothing). The guide provides words for every theme from which the reader can forge a general view of word formation patterns. In a thematic dictionary, words are not organized alphabetically but are grouped according to the root element or their meaning. Since Nakoda is a polysynthetic language where words are often built up with many elements that attach to the root, this is a necessary format that enhances the learner’s “morphological awareness.” The guide will help learners identify the root of each word, along with the “morphemes,” critical to the successful learning of the Nakoda language, and the comprehension of complex vocabulary.

Reviews
"Nakón wico’i’e né uspénic’iciyac / Practising Nakoda: A Thematic Dictionary is a user-friendly dictionary created to support learners of the endangered Nakoda language. More than just a list of words, this book helps users understand how to build sentences and use the language in real-life situations, even without a fluent speaker to guide them. The chapters are organized by theme, making it easier for learners to focus on everyday topics and vocabulary. This dictionary is meant to be a practical starting point for those beginning their Nakoda language journey. It was created with the help of many different Nakoda speakers, whose voices and knowledge shaped the content. This dictionary can be used for self-study, in classrooms, or as a community resource to support language programs. Practising Nakoda is a helpful tool for anyone who wants to begin learning and using Nakoda in their daily life." - Jackie L., Educator & Indigenous Voice Consultant, Indigenous Books for Schools

Educator Information
Table of Contents

Foreword
Elements of Nakoda Grammar
Abbreviations

Greetings and Forms of Address
Human Body
Food and Drinks
Clothing and Getting Dressed
Living Arrangements
Human Characteristics
Feelings, Instincts, Emotions, and Motives
Thinking
Behaviour and Mental Disposition
Abilities and Talents
Expressing Thoughts and Feelings
Making Evaluations
Family and Friends
Social Relations
Education and Schooling
Professions and Trades
Agriculture, Gardening, and Ranching
Banking, Money, and Commercial Transactions
Leisure and Sports
Dances and Ceremonies
Spirituality and Culture
Communication
Nationalities and Settlements
Geography and Landscape
Weather, Natural Phenomena, and Substances
Fauna and Flora
Transportation and City Infrastructure
Quantities
Space and Time
Structural Words

Bibliography
About the Authors

This book is included in the Indigenous Books for Schools database from the Association of Book Publishers of BC. It is recommended for Grades 9 to 12 for Language studies.

Additional Information
216 pages | 5.51" x 7.51" | Paperback