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Indigenous Services at NB Public Libraries

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Indigenous Services at NB Public Libraries

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Public libraries provide collections and programming relating to Indigenous cultures, languages, and peoples. They also provide welcoming spaces and library services to Indigenous peoples. Public libraries actively seek to partner with Indigenous organizations and communities.

The Indigenous collection includes materials written by Indigenous peoples, in Mi'kmaq and Wolastoqiyik-Peskotomuhkati, and about Indigenous issues.

Programming: Please contact your local public library for upcoming Indigenous-related programming.

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Public libraries provide collections and programming relating to Indigenous cultures, languages, and peoples. They also provide welcoming spaces and library services to Indigenous peoples. Public libraries actively seek to partner with Indigenous organizations and communities. The Indigenous collection includes materials written by Indigenous peoples, in Mi'kmaq and Wolastoqiyik-Peskotomuhkati, and about Indigenous issues.

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Fredericton Public Library Indigenous Books Collection

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Fredericton Public Library Indigenous Books Collection

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Enter your username and a recovery link will be emailed to the email address on file at your library.

Library Card Number:

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Enter your username and a recovery link will be emailed to the email address on file at your library.

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A little girl helps her grandfather regain the language taken from him as a child.

The story of the beautiful relationship between a little girl and her grandfather. When she asks her grandfather how to say something in his language - Cree - he admits that his language was stolen from him when he was a boy. The little girl then sets out to help her grandfather find his language again. This sensitive and warmly illustrated picture book explores the intergenerational impact of the residential school system that separated young Indigenous children from their families. The story recognizes the pain of those whose culture and language were taken from them, how that pain is passed down, and how healing can also be shared.
Awards

2018 Ruth and Sylvia Schwartz Children's Book Winner

"Florence's tender text soothes the harsh reality of having Native language stolen while attending one of Canada's former residential schools for Indigenous children. Grimard's equally emotive illustrations show the stark realities of the experience in symbolic images... Unforgettable. (Starred Review)" - Kirkus Reviews

"... a sobering ode to [Florence's] heritage, presented through eyes filled with love and hope... Word by word, her story-written in honor of her Cree grandfather-is a significant step toward forever healing. (Starred Review)" - Shelf Awareness

"...an emotionally charged series of interactions and memories that are pure Melanie Florence. They will astound readers and sadden them, while encouraging healing and learning without shame or anger." - CanLit for Little Canadians

" Stolen Words would be an asset to any home or school library. It is a very powerful tool to educate both Indigenous and non-indigenous readers about the long lasting effects of the residential school system." - Anishinabek News

"An emotional read, as the illustrations show mothers waving goodbye to their children and words being lost. As Grandfather revisits his native first language, the words fly back.... Recommended." - School Library Journal

"This sensitive, beautifully illustrated picture book deftly explores the inter-generational impact of Canada's residential school system... Stolen Words is unreservedly and emphatically recommended for family, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections." - Midwest Book Review

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6 to 9.

This resource is also available in French: Les mots voles

This resource is also available in English and Plains Cree as kimotinâniwiw itwêwina / Stolen Words

Stolen Words was the winning manuscript from Second Story Press' 2015 Aboriginal Writing Contest. Melanie Florence has been recognized for her ability to write about Indigenous history and culture with sensitivity and compassion, and Quebec artist Gabrielle Grimard's illustrations perfectly capture the spirit of the story.

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Stolen Words , 2017) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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A little girl helps her grandfather regain the language taken from him as a child. The story of the beautiful relationship between a little girl and her grandfather. When she asks her grandfather how to say something in his language - Cree - he admits that his language was stolen from him when he was a boy.

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

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

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Kids Books " Counting in Mi'kmaw / Mawkiljemk Mi'kmawiktuk (BB)
Bilingual first counting book featuring vivid paintings from celebrated Mi'kmaw artist.
One is Ne'wt, for one bear. Two is Ta'pu, for two women at the sacred fire. Counting from one to ten in English and Mi'kmaw, baby is introduced to both the ancestral language of Mi'kmaki and to Mi'kmaw culture and legend, through beautifully rendered illustrations of important animals, like turtle, bear, and beaver, to concepts integral to the Mi'kmaw world view, like the Four (Ne'w) Directions, and the Seven (L'luiknek) Mi'kmaw teachings. Features bright and detailed illustrations from celebrated Waycobah-based Mi'kmaw illustrator, Loretta Gould.

Educator Information
Recommended ages: 3 and under

Recommended in the "Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 2019-2020" resource list as being useful for kindergarten students in the areas of English Language Arts, Math, and Social Studies.

There is no pronunciation guide or background information about the Mi'kmaq in this book.

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

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Counting in Mi'kmaw / Mawkiljemk Mi'kmawiktuk (BB), 2018) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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Bilingual first counting book featuring vivid paintings from celebrated Mi'kmaw artist.One is Ne'wt, for one bear. Two is Ta'pu, for two women at the sacred fire.

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When Phyllis Webstad (nee Jack) turned six, she went to the residential school for the first time. On her first day at school, she wore a shiny orange shirt that her Granny had bought for her, but when she got to the school, it was taken away from her and never returned. This is the true story of Phyllis and her orange shirt. It is also the story of Orange Shirt Day (an important day of remembrance for First Nations and non First Nations Canadians).

Reviews
"The book includes a brief history of the Secwepemc people, St. Joseph's Residential School, and a glossary and conversation starters. A must for elementary school teachers. " - Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 2020/2021

Educator Information
Recommended for grades 2 to 5.

This resource is also available in French: The Orange Shirt Story (French) / L'histoire Du Chandail Orange

Recommended in the Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 2020/2021 resource list for grades 1-5 in the areas of English Language Arts, Social Studies, and Career Education.

Additional Information
8.5" x 11" | 44 pages

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The Orange Shirt Story, 2018) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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When Phyllis Webstad (nee Jack) turned six, she went to the residential school for the first time. On her first day at school, she wore a shiny orange shirt that her Granny had bought for her, but when she got to the school, it was taken away from her and never returned.

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Kids Books » Speaking Our Truth: A Journey of Reconciliation

Status: Available

Grade Levels: 4; 5; 6; 7; 8;

Other Categories: Kids Book, First Nation Communities Read, 2018 - 2019 Selections, Healing and Wellness, Healing, History, History, Legacy and Reconciliation, Memoirs, Residential Schools, Kids Books, Canadian Indigenous Resource Lists , Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools K-7 2017-2018, Indigenous Awareness, Indigenous Contemporary Issues, Indigenous History, Indigenous Justice, Non-Fiction, History, Social Studies, First Nations, Residential School/Project of Heart, Ages 9 - 12, Teen Books, Canadian Indigenous Resource Lists - Secondary, Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 8 - 12 2017-2018, First Nation Communities Read, 2018 - 2019 Selections, Indigenous Awareness, Indigenous Contemporary Issues, Indigenous History, Indigenous Politics, Law, and Justice, Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous Peoples in Canada, First Nations, Inuit, Métis, Non-Fiction, History, Social Studies, Residential School/Project of Heart, Legacy and Reconciliation, Residential Schools

Synopsis:

Canada's relationship with its Indigenous people has suffered as a result of both the residential school system and the lack of understanding of the historical and current impact of those schools. Healing and repairing that relationship requires education, awareness and increased understanding of the legacy and the impacts still being felt by Survivors and their families. Guided by acclaimed Indigenous author Monique Gray Smith, readers will learn about the lives of Survivors and listen to allies who are putting the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission into action.

Additional Information
160 pages | 7.50" x 9.00"

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Speaking Our Truth: A Journey of Reconciliation , 2017) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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Canada’s relationship with its Indigenous people has suffered as a result of both the residential school system and the lack of understanding of the historical and current impact of those schools. Healing and repairing that relationship requires education, awareness and increased understanding of th…

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Thousands of years ago in the village of Kitkatla, four hunters leave home in the spring to harvest seaweed and sockeye. When they arrive at their fishing grounds, exhaustion makes them lazy and they throw their anchor overboard without care for the damage it might do to marine life or the sea floor.

When Orca Chief discovers what the hunters have done, he sends his most powerful orca warriors to bring the men and their boat to his house. The men beg forgiveness for their ignorance and lack of respect, and Orca Chief compassionately sends them out with his pod to show them how to sustainably harvest the ocean's resources.

Accompanied by almost exclusively new illustrations by Roy Henry Vickers, this next installment of the Northwest Coast Legends will captivate readers young and old with its vivid imagery and remarkable storytelling.

Educator & Series Information
Orca Chief is the third in a series of Northwest Coast legends by Roy Henry Vickers and Robert Budd.

Other books in this series include:
Raven Brings the Light
Cloudwalker
Orca Chief
Peace Dancer

Recommended for ages 3 to 6.

Additional Information
40 pages | 12.00" x 8.25"

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Orca Chief , 2015) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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Thousands of years ago in the village of Kitkatla, four hunters leave home in the spring to harvest seaweed and sockeye. When they arrive at their fishing grounds, exhaustion makes them lazy and they throw their anchor overboard without care for the damage it might do to marine life or the sea floor.

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Mahtoquehs is heading to the Gathering - all on his own! His forest friends try to guide him, but each follow their own path. The salmon swims upstream, the owl flies above the trees, but how does the rabbit get to the Gathering? Mahtoqehs needs the help of the four sacred medicines, so he can perform his special dance for all the creatures of the Gathering!

Mahtoqehs' Journey is an easy, fun way to teach the traditional values of the Wolastoqiyik peoples - for indigenous and non-indigenous children alike!

ages 5-10
ISBN: 978-0-9949583-4-1

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Mahtoquehs is heading to the Gathering - all on his own! His forest friends try to guide him, but each follow their own path. The salmon swims upstream, the owl flies above the trees, but how does the rabbit get to the Gathering?

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Kids Books " ON SALE - We Are All Connected: Métis, Wetlands and Mallards

Note:

On sale for 20% off! Regular price: $21.95

"We Are All Connected" is a series that explores how we all live together in a shared balance upon Mother Earth. Each book explores a specific ecosystem with a focus on one animal and its adaptations for survival within that ecosystem. Indigenous interviewees, each living within the same area, have responded to strategic questions as to how their community interacts with the land, their traditional territory. Explore each text with a sense of inquiry in mind.

8 We Are All Connected Titles Coast Salish, Coastal Rainforests and Cougars Haisla, Rivers and Chinook Salmon Inuit, Tundra and Ravens Lakota, Mixed Grasslands and Bald Eagles Métis, Wetlands and Mallards Nisga'a, Ponds and Leopard Frogs Nlaka'pamux, Grasslands and Rattlesnakes Sto:lo, Riparian Forests and Black Bears Each title covers the following curricular areas. Traditional storytelling and artwork begin each title from the focus Indigenous territory. Science: Biodiversity, classification, life cycles, food chains, food webs and connections between living and non-living things are just some of the science concepts included in each book. Social Studies: Contemporary and historical Indigenous cultural knowledge flows throughout each book. Local land forms, gatherings, harvesting practices and government are some of the social studies concepts included in each book.

2 Foundation Titles The two foundational books provide deeper understanding of the content of the "We Are All Connected" titles. We Are All Connected: The Earth, Our Home- explores biomes, ecosystems and biodiversity. We Are All Connected: The Earth, We Share- explores the interconnectedness between living and non-living things.

Authenticity Note: This book contains some Indigenous artwork and photos throughout, such as artwork from Leah Marie Dorion.

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.50" x 11.00" | ISBN: 9781771742511

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ON SALE - We Are All Connected: Métis, Wetlands and Mallards, 2017) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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"We Are All Connected" is a series that explores how we all live together in a shared balance upon Mother Earth. Each book explores a specific ecosystem with a focus on one animal and its adaptations for survival within that ecosystem.

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The year is 1959, and fifteen-year-old Nipishish returns to his Métis reserve in northern Quebec after being kicked out of residential school, where the principal tells him he's a good-for-nothing who, like all Indians, can look forward to a life of drunkenness, prison and despair.

The reserve, however, offers nothing to Nipishish. He feels even more isolated here. He remembers little of his late mother and father. In fact, he seems to know less about himself than the people at the band office. He must try to rediscover the old ways, face the officials who find him a threat, and learn the truth about his father's death.

Adolescents will find inspiration in his courage to reclaim his identity and claim his rightful place on the reserve. The book also provides great insight into the roots of many ongoing Indigenous issues.

Educator Information
Recommended Ages: 12-15.

Curriculum Connections: Indigenous Studies, History, Geography, Social Sciences, English

Additional Information
256 pages | 4.25" x 7.00" | Written by Michel Noel. Translated by Shelley Tanaka.

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Good For Nothing, 2004) - Indigenous & First Nations Teen Books - Strong Nations

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The year is 1959, and fifteen-year-old Nipishish returns to his Métis reserve in northern Quebec after being kicked out of residential school, where the principal tells him he's a good-for-nothing who, like all Indians, can look forward to a life of drunkenness, prison and despair. The reserve, however, offers nothing to Nipishish.

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Kids Books » Fatty Legs: A True Story (10th Anniversary Edition) (PB)

Status: Available

Grade Levels: 4; 5; 6; 7; 8; 9;

Other Categories: Kids Book, Kids Books, Canadian Indigenous Resource Lists , Authentic First Peoples Resources K - 9 2016, 8 - 9, Additional Literature Resources, Quebec Youth Literature, Elementary 3rd Cycle, Healing and Wellness, Stories of Inspiration, Indigenous Awareness, Indigenous History, Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous Peoples in Canada, Inuit , Inuvialuit (Mackenzie Inuit), Non-Fiction, Biographies, Memoirs, Novels and Chapter Books, Indigenous Stories / Narratives, Residential School/Project of Heart, Ages 9 - 12, Teen Books, Healing and Wellness, Stories of Inspiration, Indigenous Awareness, Indigenous History, Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous Peoples in Canada, Inuit, Inuvialuit (Mackenzie Inuit), Residential School/Project of Heart, History, Memoirs, Residential Schools

Synopsis:

The beloved story of an Inuvialuit girl standing up to the bullies of residential school, updated for a new generation of readers.

Margaret Olemaun Pokiak-Fenton’s powerful story of residential school in the far North has been reissued to commemorate the memoir’s 10th anniversary with updates to the text, reflections on the book’s impact, and a bonus chapter from the acclaimed follow-up, A Stranger at Home. New content includes a foreword from Dr. Debbie Reese, noted Indigenous scholar and founder of American Indians in Children’s Literature, while Christy Jordan-Fenton, mother of Margaret’s grandchildren and a key player in helping Margaret share her stories, discusses the impact of the book in a new preface.

With important updates since it first hit the shelves a decade ago, this new edition of Fatty Legs will continue to resonate with readers young and old.

Reviews
"I highly recommend this book for the discussion it would stir with students...Makes the harrowing residential school stories accessible to youth." — Resource Links

"Presents a unique and enlightening glimpse into the residential school experience and, most importantly, one little girl's triumph over her oppressors." — Quill & Quire

Educator Information
Themes: biography; Inuit; Indigenous peoples; Indigenous; arctic; school; self-esteem; abuse; community; prejudice; Canadian content; courage/bravery; right vs. wrong; role reversal; secrets; society; history; bullying; memoir; character education.

This resource is also available in French: Les bas du pensionnat

This resource is also available in its original format: Fatty Legs: A True Story

Additional Information

156 pages | 6.50" x 9.00"

Authenticity Note
This illustrator of this book is not Indigenous; therefore, her artwork is not considered to be Authentic Indigenous Artwork according to Strong Nations Authenticity Guidelines. The archival photos from Margaret Pokiak-Fenton's personal collection, however, are considered to be authentic, which is why the book is labelled as containing Authentic Indigenous Artwork. It is up to readers to determine whether or not the images in this work are authentic for their purposes.

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Fatty Legs: A True Story (10th Anniversary Edition) (PB), 2020) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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The beloved story of an Inuvialuit girl standing up to the bullies of residential school, updated for a new generation of readers.Margaret Olemaun Pokiak-Fenton’s powerful story of residential school in the far North has been reissued to commemorate the memoir’s 10th anniversary with updates to the…

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Kids Books " Canoe Kids Volume 3: The Mi'kmaq of Newfoundland

Other Categories: Kids Book, Books, Educator Resources, Social Studies Resources, Indigenous Studies, Communities, History, Kids Books, Canoe Kids, Indigenous Cultural Practices, Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous Peoples in Canada, First Nations , Mi'kmaq, Non-Fiction, Art, Design, Visual, Biographies, Indigenous Narratives, Indigenous Peoples, First Nations, Information Circles, Nature, Environment, Plants and Animals, Canadian Wildlife, Reference, Science and Technology, Environment, Indigenous Technology, Plants and Animals, Social Studies, First Nations, Canoe Kids, Indigenous Cultural Practices, Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous Peoples in Canada, First Nations, Mi'kmaq, Non-Fiction, Art, Design, Visual, Biographies, Information Circles, Nature, Science and Technology, Social Studies

Canoe Kids Vol. 3 The Mi'kmaq of Newfoundland (Ktaqamkuk) is the third issue of a 24 edition series designed as family books for kids all ages. This eight to ten year project will see the Canoe Kids Team embed with 24 Peoples. The mandate for the full-colour book (150+ full colour high res photographs) is Exploring Indigenous Cultures through Authentic Indigenous Voices. The publication balances culture, equity and the environment in a beautiful mix that reminds the reader of the pictorial quality of National Geographic with a more in depth editorial content.

This third issue (in a series of 24) focuses on the Mi'kmaq of the Newfoundland and north Atlantic coast. In 150 pages the reader is introduced to the Mi'kmaq People who kindly assisted the Canoe Kids staff by allowing access to their traditional territory. Canoe Kids acknowledges the generosity of the Council of Flat Bay and Conn River.

Educator Information
Each edition follows a common theme and features:

1: Compelling and beautiful pictorials that draw you into the stories and place of the featured community
2: The story of the vessel used by the featured Peoples
3: Art and Food
4: A Kids Zone
5: Resources for kids, parents and educators
6: Stories by and of the featured Peoples in each edition
7: Extraordinary pictures of the lives, land and waters of the featured Peoples

The materials are equal parts cultural and environmental. The latter is a natural offshoot of the former as Indigenous cultures are wrapped around and through the lands and water and sky both spiritually and from a harvesting and gathering perspective. Indigenous Peoples have long been the caretakers of Mother Earth and we can all learn from these experts whose message is perhaps more relevant today than ever.

Indigenous communities have always included the little ones in their circles and talk and teach to them in the same way they talk and teach to young adults and adults. Canoe Kids decided to follow that inclusive way of life for the layout of each book. Rather than create editions for different age groups, Canoe Kids decided to have one book for all ages.

K through 3 use Canoe Kids to read beautiful and ancient stories. There is beautiful original art to explore and a Kids Zone with puzzles, word searches, colouring, cutouts and more. Mid grades use the materials to study the culture, food and wildlife of the featured cultures. Grades 8 through 12 use stories that are more in depth from Dr. David Suzuki about the environment and there are discussion articles about living well and properly with Mother Nature as well as articles about the history and geography of the featured People.

Additional Information
150 pages | 8.50" x 11.00"

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Canoe Kids Volume 3: The Mi'kmaq of Newfoundland , 2017) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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Canoe Kids Vol. 3 The Mi'kmaq of Newfoundland (Ktaqamkuk) is the third issue of a 24 edition series designed as family books for kids all ages. This eight to ten year project will see the Canoe Kids Team embed with 24 Peoples.

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Inspired by the many Indigenous-led movements across North America, Carole Lindstrom's bold and lyrical picture book We Are Water Protectors issues an urgent rallying cry to safeguarding the Earth's water from harm and corruption.
Water is the first medicine.
It affects and connects us all . . .
When a black snake threatens to destroy the Earth and poison her people's water, one young water protector takes a stand to defend Earth's most sacred resource.

Featuring illustrations by Michaela Goade.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 6.

Includes information on water protectors and the importance of water protection at the back of the book, as well as a glossary with a few words in different Indigenous languages, such as Ojibwe, Tlingit, and Lakota.

Additional Information
40 pages | 10.00" x 10.00"

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We Are Water Protectors, 2020) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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Inspired by the many Indigenous-led movements across North America, Carole Lindstrom's bold and lyrical picture book We Are Water Protectors issues an urgent rallying cry to safeguarding the Earth's water from harm and corruption.Water is the first medicine.It affects and connects us all . .

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Kids Books " My Heart Fills With Happiness / Nijiikendam

Preview Images (1)

The sun on your face. The smell of warm bannock baking in the oven. Holding the hand of someone you love. What fills your heart with happiness? This beautiful board book, with illustrations from celebrated artist Julie Flett, serves as a reminder for little ones and adults alike to reflect on and cherish the moments in life that bring us joy.

International speaker and award-winning author Monique Gray Smith wrote My Heart Fills With Happiness to support the wellness of Indigenous children and families and to encourage young children to reflect on what makes them happy.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.

This is the dual-language English and Anishinaabemowin hardcover edition.

This book is also available in an English-only board book format: My Heart Fills With Happiness

This book is also available in English and Plains Cree: My Heart Fills With Happiness / Ni Sâkaskineh Mîyawâten Niteh Ohcih

This book is available in French: J'ai le coeur rempli de bonheur

Additional Information
26 pages | 8.00" x 8.00"

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My Heart Fills With Happiness / Nijiikendam, 2021) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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The sun on your face. The smell of warm bannock baking in the oven. Holding the hand of someone you love. What fills your heart with happiness?

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Preview Images (1)

This vibrant picture book, beautifully illustrated by celebrated artist Danielle Daniel, encourages children to show love and support for each other and to consider each other's well-being in their everyday actions.

Consultant, international speaker and award-winning author Monique Gray Smith wrote You Hold Me Up to prompt a dialogue among young people, their care providers and educators about reconciliation and the importance of the connections children make with their friends, classmates and families. This is a foundational book about building relationships, fostering empathy and encouraging respect between peers, starting with our littlest citizens.

Reviews
"Smith's text is heartwarming! And the illustrations, by Danielle Daniel, reflect Native people in the present day. Like My Heart Fills with Happiness, this new book by Smith is one that parents, grandparents, pre-school and elementary teachers, and librarians, will want to have on their shelves." - Debbie Reese, American Indians in Children's Literature

"People of all ages can find something of value within the pages of Monique Gray Smith and Danielle Daniel's book...Smith has Cree and Lakota ancestry, while Daniel is Métis. With this book, they become quiet and understated-yet powerful-voices in an age of reconciliation. You Hold Me Up is simple, yet beautiful, subtle but thought-provoking. It contains critical messages about love, unity, and support. Through carefully chosen words and strong, colourful are, the book presents an important reminder to readers to sustain and support one another. Highly Recommended." - CM Magazine

"Perfect for a shared storytime as well as a lap-sit reading session, the actions of each person emphasize community, togetherness, and mutual respect. While sharing is a universal concept, Daniel's illustrations bring specificity to the narrative...Just as in Smith's board book My Heart Fills with Happiness, readers will joyfully make connections between their own communities and the indigenous one depicted here." - IndiePicks Magazine

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 3 to 5.

This book is available in English and Plains Cree: You Hold Me Up / ê-ohpinitoyahk

This book is available in English and Anishinaabemowin: You Hold Me Up / Gimanaadenim

This book is also available in French: Tu es là pour moi

Additional Information
32 pages | 9.00" x 9.00"

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You Hold Me Up, 2017) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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This vibrant picture book, beautifully illustrated by celebrated artist Danielle Daniel, encourages children to show love and support for each other and to consider each other's well-being in their everyday actions.

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In this introduction to the Anishinaabe tradition of totem animals, young children explain why they identify with different creatures such as a deer, beaver or moose. Delightful illustrations show the children wearing masks representing their chosen animal, while the few lines of text on each page work as a series of simple poems throughout the book.

In a brief author's note, Danielle Daniel explains the importance of totem animals in Anishinaabe culture and how they can also act as animal guides for young children seeking to understand themselves and others.

Educator Information
Recommended for Grades K-2 for these subject areas: Art Education, Visual Arts, English Language Arts, Science, Social Studies.

This resource is also available in French: Parfois je suis un renard

Additional Information
40 pages | 8.25" x 10.00"

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Sometimes I Feel Like a Fox, 2015) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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In this introduction to the Anishinaabe tradition of totem animals, young children explain why they identify with different creatures such as a deer, beaver or moose. Delightful illustrations show the children wearing masks representing their chosen animal, while the few lines of text on each page work as a series of simple poems throughout the book.

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In just four days young Shi-shi-etko will have to leave her family and all that she knows to attend residential school.

She spends her last days at home treasuring the beauty of her world -- the dancing sunlight, the tall grass, each shiny rock, the tadpoles in the creek, her grandfather's paddle song. Her mother, father and grandmother, each in turn, share valuable teachings that they want her to remember. And so Shi-shi-etko carefully gathers her memories for safekeeping.

Richly hued illustrations complement this gently moving and poetic account of a child who finds solace all around her, even though she is on the verge of great loss -- a loss that native people have endured for generations because of the residential schools system.

This gentle story of a child on the verge of great loss was selected as the Aboriginal Children's Book of the Year.
Awards

Winner of the Anskohk Aboriginal Children's Book of the Year Award.

Educator Information
Recommended Grades: 2-10.

Curriculum Connections: Indigenous Studies, Visual Arts, Science, Health.

Recommended Authentic First Peoples resource K-9.

This illustrated children's story is recommended for English First Peoples Grades 10 for units pertaining to childhood through Indigenous writers' eyes and the exploration of residential schools and reconciliation through children's literature.

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.50" x 8.13"

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Shi-shi-etko , 2010) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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In just four days young Shi-shi-etko will have to leave her family and all that she knows to attend residential school.She spends her last days at home treasuring the beauty of her world -- the dancing sunlight, the tall grass, each shiny rock, the tadpoles in the creek, her grandfather's paddle song.

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In 2018-2019, The Water Walker was an award recipient for First Nation Communities Read.

The story of a determined Ojibwe Grandmother (Nokomis) Josephine Mandamin and her great love for Nibi (water). Nokomis walks to raise awareness of our need to protect Nibi for future generations, and for all life on the planet. She, along with other women, men, and youth, have walked around all the Great Lakes from the four salt waters, or oceans, to Lake Superior. The walks are full of challenges, and by her example Josephine invites us all to take up our responsibility to protect our water, the giver of life, and to protect our planet for all generations.

Awards
- 2018-2019 First Nation Communities Read

Reviews
"An important topic is treated with grace, love, and a smidgen of humor in this delightful, necessary book." - Kirkus Reviews

"... a worthwhile addition to classroom and public libraries and a resource for discussions about First Nations and ecology." - CM: Canadian Review of Materials

"... like so many titles about Indigenous topics finally earning shelf space in Canadian libraries and bookshops, The Water Walker has just as much to teach parents as the children... Joanne Robertson succeeds in answering with her words and her art the same question that Nokomis Josephine answered with her footsteps: 'What are you going to do about it?'" - Anishinabek News

" The Water Walker is a wonderful book about conservation, environmentalism, and preservation, written in a way that even the youngest audience can understand why Nibi is important and why we should protect Nibi.... The book has the potential to be a highly interactive book around which science lesson plans could be formed. Students can discuss how they are protecting Nibi, they can write letters to Nokomis, and there can be discussion around the ways they can create change in the world, just as Nokomis did." - Resource Links

Educator Information
Delivered in English with some Ojibwe words. Ojibwe glossary and pronunciation guide included in the book.

This book is available in a dual-language format (Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe) and English): Nibi Emosaawdang / The Water Walker

This books available in French: Nokomis et la marche pour l'eau

Additional Information
36 pages | 7.00" x 8.50"

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The Water Walker , 2017) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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In 2018-2019, The Water Walker was an award recipient for First Nation Communities Read. The story of a determined Ojibwe Grandmother (Nokomis) Josephine Mandamin and her great love for Nibi (water). Nokomis walks to raise awareness of our need to protect Nibi for future generations, and for all life on the planet.

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This is an endearing story of a young Aboriginal foster child who is given a special gift by his foster mother. Her gift of warmth and thoughtfulness helps her young foster children by encouraging self-esteem, acceptance and love. Written as a simple story, it speaks of a positive foster experience.

Additional Information
16 pages | 8.00" x 6.00" | Paperback

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The Moccasins, 2004) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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This is an endearing story of a young Aboriginal foster child who is given a special gift by his foster mother. Her gift of warmth and thoughtfulness helps her young foster children by encouraging self-esteem, acceptance and love.

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Nibi’s Water Song, 2019) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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Determination, teamwork, and perseverance together bring clean water for Nibi and all her friends.Nibi is the Anishinaabemowin word for water. In Nibi’s Water Song, an Indigenous girl is on the search for clean water to drink. Though she is faced with repeated obstacles, Nibi’s joyful and determined…

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Other Categories: Kids Book, Books, Educator Resources, Building Strong Learning, Language Resources, Indigenous Languages, Literacy Resources, Indigenous Literacy, Science Resources, Social Responsibility Resources, Social Studies Resources, Kids Books, Books Published by Strong Nations Publishing, *By Grade, Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3, Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6, Educator Resources, Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Indigenous Stories, Healing and Wellness, Emotions and Feelings, Family and Community, Self-Esteem, Self-Regulation, Social Skills, Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous Peoples in Canada, First Nations , Kwakwaka'wakw (Kwakiutl), Tsimshian (Ts'msysen), Language, Indigenous Languages, Vocabulary Building, Literacy, English Language Arts, Indigenous Literacy, Non-Fiction, Indigenous Narratives, Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous Peoples in Canada, First Nations, Leadership, Nature, Ethnobotany, Plants and Animals, Science and Technology, Ethnobotany, Plants and Animals, Social Responsibility, Social Studies

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Animals Care for Mother Earth comprises six contemporary, interrelated stories and supporting resources for teachers. In the first story, animals cooperate to clean up a polluted pond. In subsequent stories, they care for each other in the aftermath of the pollution problem, demonstrating strength of character and social responsibility. This book can be used in elementary schools to teach-through storytelling-the value of personal strengths and community supports while incorporating Tsimshian language and knowledge into classroom lessons. It also provides many opportunities to extend the learning to other curriculum areas, including science, math, reading, writing, social studies, and art.

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Animals Care for Mother Earth: A Teaching Resource for Personal Development, 2022) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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Animals Care for Mother Earth comprises six contemporary, interrelated stories and supporting resources for teachers. In the first story, animals cooperate to clean up a polluted pond. In subsequent stories, they care for each other in the aftermath of the pollution problem, demonstrating strength of character and social responsibility.

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Drumming, singing, and dancing are all part of being at a Powwow. Perry and his family travel all over North America to participate in these family and community gatherings. Join Perry's two boys as they share their treasured memories of being at Powwows with their family and learning how to dance.

Reviews
"This engaging Canadian picture book shares the perspectives of the author and his two eldest sons-who participate in modern powwow dancing-on the powwow and its role as a celebration and tradition in Indigenous culture. Lavishly illustrated with photographs, vivid sketches, and ledger art, it provides a detailed description of each stage of the powwow, historical and contemporary aspects of the powwow, and pays homage to Indigenous culture and customs. This informative resource will support studies of Indigenous culture, history, traditions, community, art, and family lifestyle. Additional educational pages provide further information on powwows, traditional regalia, and dances." - ERAC Review, May 2019

Educator Information
Includes three pages of educational material on Powwows with information found under these headings:

About Perry Smith's Ledger Art:
Ledger Art is an art form that was developed in the mid 1800s to early 1900s by the Plains First Nations during a time when reserves were being established across North America. The ledger books were acquired in trade, war, or raid. New art supplies were also introduced: coloured pencils, crayons, and occasionally water paints. The new supplies were favoured by artists over the traditional bone and stick brushes. Many of the artworks within these ledger books display a traditional way of life, before assimilation. Today these artworks are greatly valued for the historical perspective that they offer.

Additional Information
32 pages | 8" x 8" | ISBN: 9781771743310 | Hardcover

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Powwow Dancing With Family, 2018) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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Drumming, singing, and dancing are all part of being at a Powwow. Perry and his family travel all over North America to participate in these family and community gatherings.

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Kids Books " Muinji'j Asks Why: The Story of the Mi'kmaq and the Shubenacadie Residential School

Other Categories: Kids Book, Kids Books, Indigenous Awareness, Indigenous Culture / Identity, Indigenous History, Indigenous Justice, Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous Peoples in Canada, First Nations , Mi'kmaq, Non-Fiction, Biographies, Memoirs, Personal Narratives, History, Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous Peoples in Canada, First Nations, Information Circles, Social Studies, First Nations, Residential School/Project of Heart, Ages 4 - 8, Ages 9 - 12

An educational and heartfelt retelling of the story of the Mi'kmaq and their traditional lands, Mi'kma'ki, for young readers, focused on the generational traumas of the Indian Residential School System.

"The story of the Mi'kmaw people is one that very few truly know, Ladybug. Even fewer understand what happened at the residential schools. It is a hard story to tell, but you must know the truth. Sit and I will tell you the story."

When seven-year-old Muinji'j comes home from school one day, her Nana and Papa can tell right away that she's upset. Her teacher has been speaking about the residential schools. Unlike most of her fellow students, Muinji'j has always known about the residential schools. But what she doesn't understand is why the schools existed and why children would have died there.

Nana and Papa take Muinji'j aside and tell her the whole story, from the beginning. They help her understand all of the decisions that were made for the Mi'kmaq, not with the Mi'kmaq, and how those decisions hurt her people. They tell her the story of her people before their traditional ways were made illegal, before they were separated and sent to reservations, before their words, their beliefs, and eventually, their children, were taken from them.

A poignant, honest, and necessary book featuring brilliant artwork from Mi'kmaw artist Zeta Paul and words inspired by Muinji'j MacEachern's true story, Muinji'j Asks Why will inspire conversation, understanding, and allyship for readers of all ages.

Educator Information
Juvenile Nonfiction

Additional Information
40 pages | Paperback

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Muinji'j Asks Why: The Story of the Mi'kmaq and the Shubenacadie Residential School, 2022) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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Kids Books " Muinji'j Asks Why: The Story of the Mi'kmaq and the Shubenacadie Residential School Other Categories: Kids Book, Kids Books, Indigenous Awareness, Indigenous Culture / Identity, Indigenous History, Indigenous Justice, Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous Peoples in Canada, First Nations , Mi'kmaq, Non-Fiction, Biographies, Memoirs, Personal Narratives, History, Indigenous Peoples,

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Kids Books " Wolverine and Little Thunder: An Eel Fishing Story

From the bestselling creator of The Thundermaker comes another adventure featuring Little Thunder and Wolverine-a trickster, who is strong and fierce and loyal. The two are best of friends, even though Wolverine can sometimes get them into trouble. Their favourite pastime is eel fishing, whether it's cutting through winter ice with a stone axe or catching eels in traditional stone weirs in the summer. But that all changes one night, when they encounter the giant river eel-the eel that is too big to catch. The eel that hunts people!

At once a universal story of friendship and problem-solving, Wolverine and Little Thunder is a contemporary invocation of traditional Mi'kmaw knowledge, reinforcing the importance of the relationship between the Mi'kmaq and eel, a dependable year-round food source traditionally offered to Glooscap, the Creator, for a successful hunt.

Educator Information
Recommended ages: 4-8

This resource is recommended in the Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools 2020/2021 resource list for grades K to 6 for use in these areas: Science, Social Studies, and Language Arts.

Additional Information
40 pages | 10.00" x 9.00"

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Wolverine and Little Thunder: An Eel Fishing Story, 2019) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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From the bestselling creator of The Thundermaker comes another adventure featuring Little Thunder and Wolverine-a trickster, who is strong and fierce and loyal. The two are best of friends, even though Wolverine can sometimes get them into trouble.

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The children of the Tsimshian village of Kitkatla love to play at being hunters, eager for their turn to join the grown-ups. But when they capture and mistreat a crow, the Chief of the Heavens, angered at their disrespect, brings down a powerful storm.

The rain floods the Earth and villagers have no choice but to abandon their homes and flee to their canoes. As the seas rise, the villagers tie themselves to the top of Anchor Mountain, where they pray for days on end and promise to teach their children to value all life. The storm stops and the waters recede. From that point on, the villagers appoint a chief to perform the Peace Dance at every potlatch and, with it, pass on the story of the flood and the importance of respect.

With eighteen new illustrations from Roy Henry Vickers and exceptional narrative, Peace Dancer will delight readers of all ages and add to the collection of global flood stories.

Reviews
"Parents and teachers will enjoy sharing Peace Dancer with children. Highly recommended." - Dr. Gregory Bryan, CM Magazine, October 2016

Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Northwest Coast Legends series.

Other books in this series include:
Raven Brings the Light
Cloudwalker
Orca Chief
Peace Dancer

Recommended for ages 3 to 6.

Additional Information
40 pages | 12.00" x 8.25"

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Peace Dancer, 2016) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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The children of the Tsimshian village of Kitkatla love to play at being hunters, eager for their turn to join the grown-ups. But when they capture and mistreat a crow, the Chief of the Heavens, angered at their disrespect, brings down a powerful storm.

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Kids Books » How the Cougar Came to be Called the Ghost Cat

Status: Available

Grade Levels: 1; 2; 3;

Other Categories: Kids Book, Kids Books, Canadian Indigenous Resource Lists , Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools K-7 2012 - 2013, IBBY Canada, From Sea to Sea to Sea 2018 Edition, Quebec Youth Literature, Elementary 2nd Cycle, Fiction, Picture Books, First Nations, Indigenous Awareness, Indigenous Culture / Identity, Language, Dual or Triple Language, Indigenous Languages, Literacy, Indigenous Literacy, Non-Fiction, Social Studies, First Nations

Synopsis:

The story of Ajig the cougar, who is trapped between two worlds, A symbol of the assimilation of First Nations through enforced Western education systems.

The human need to belong is very powerful, so much so that we often sacrifice parts of who we are in order to be accepted. This is the tale of a young cougar, Ajig, who makes this sacrifice – and pays dearly. A curious and adventurous cougar, Ajig decides to build a new home in a strange forest. When he finds that all of the animals in the forest are afraid of him, Ajig agrees to stop behaving like a cougar so that he can make friends. But when Ajig tries to return to his birthplace, he learns that he is no longer welcome. Lost between two worlds, the young cougar becomes a “ghost cat.”

This beautifully illustrated book, written in both Mi’kmaw and English, reflects the experiences of First Nations peoples’ assimilation into the Euro-Canadian school system, but speaks to everyone who is marginalized or at risk.

Educator Information
This resource is also available in French and Mi'kmaw: Comment le Puma a fini par etre appele le Chat Fantome / Ta'n Petalu Telui'tut Skite'kmujew Mia'jw

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.00" x 10.00"

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How the Cougar Came to be Called the Ghost Cat, 2010) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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The story of Ajig the cougar, who is trapped between two worlds, A symbol of the assimilation of First Nations through enforced Western education systems.The human need to belong is very powerful, so much so that we often sacrifice parts of who we are in order to be accepted. This is the tale of a y…

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The story of Muin and the Seven Bird Hunters is a very old Mi'kmaw legend. It happens in the North Sky as the stars that show the story of Muin and the Seven Bird Hunters move around Tatapn, the North Star.

In pictures in this book you can see how these stars, shown as they appear two hours before dawn, move through the night sky. They are in a different position each of the seasons because they are the time-keepers, the calendar. All through the year, as the stars and plants travel through the sky, the Mi'kmaq watch the story of Muin and the Seven Bird Hunters as it unfolds before their eyes.

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Muin and the Seven Bird Hunters : Harris, Prune, Marshall, Lilian, Marshall, Murdena, Bartlett, Cheryl: Books - Amazon

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Kids Books " The Lost Teachings/ Panuijkatasikl Kina'masuti'l

One day as the great Eagle flew high above the forest he came upon a small bundle containing seven teachings, teachings that will bring balance, harmony and peace to all who practice them. But the teachings come with a simple warning: beware of envy and greed.

As Eagle spreads the seven teachings throughout the forest, he forgets to heed their warning and soon the forest is lost to jealousy, greed and selfishness. Eagle must save the forest, and he soon learns the most important teaching of all: truth.

"When you see Eagle flying high in the beautiful sky above, ask yourself this: Am I proud of myself? Have I respected myself, others, and the environment? Have I stood up for someone and stood up for what is right? Have I practiced the teaching of truth?"

This engaging story, with beautiful illustrations by Dozay (Arlene) Christmas, allows the reader to reconnect to and understand the seven teachings and their meaning in relation to themselves and society as a whole. The Lost Teachings is a story about the importance of the seven teachings - wisdom, respect, love, honesty, humility, courage and truth - and how interconnected they are in achieving balance, harmony and peace for individuals and society as a whole.

Educator Information
This resource is also available in French and Mi'kmaq: Les Savoirs Perdus / Panuijkatasikl Kina'masuti'l

Additional Information
48 pages | 5.25" x 8.75"

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The Lost Teachings/ Panuijkatasikl Kina'masuti'l , 2013) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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One day as the great Eagle flew high above the forest he came upon a small bundle containing seven teachings, teachings that will bring balance, harmony and peace to all who practice them. But the teachings come with a simple warning: beware of envy and greed.

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Synopsis:

Mi’kmaw artist Alan Syliboy’s The Thundermaker is based on Alan’s spectacular mixed-media exhibit of the same name. In the book, Big Thunder teaches his son, Little Thunder, about the important responsibility he has making thunder for his people. Little Thunder learns about his Mi’kmaw identity through his father’s teachings and his mother’s traditional stories. Syliboy’s spectacular, vibrant artwork brings the story of Little Thunder to vivid life.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8

Additional Information
32 pages | 10.00" x 9.00" |

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The Thundermaker, 2015) - Indigenous & First Nations Kids Books - Strong Nations

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Mi’kmaw artist Alan Syliboy’s The Thundermaker is based on Alan’s spectacular mixed-media exhibit of the same name. In the book, Big Thunder teaches his son, Little Thunder, about the important responsibility he has making thunder for his people. Little Thunder learns about his Mi’kmaw identity thro…