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Hopeless in Hope
by Wanda John-KehewinWe live in a hopeless old house on an almost-deserted dead-end street in a middle-of-nowhere town named Hope. This is the oldest part of Hope; eventually it will all be torn down and rebuilt into perfect homes for perfect people. Until then, we live here: imperfect people on an imperfect street that everyone forgets about.For Eva Brown, life feels lonely and small. Her mother, Shirley, drinks and yells all the time. She&’s the target of the popular mean girl, and her only friend doesn&’t want to talk to her anymore. All of it would be unbearable if it weren&’t for her cat, Toofie, her beloved nohkum, and her writing, which no one will ever see.When Nohkum is hospitalized, Shirley struggles to keep things together for Eva and her younger brother, Marcus. After Marcus is found wandering the neighbourhood alone, he is sent to live with a foster family, and Eva finds herself in a group home.Furious at her mother, Eva struggles to adjust—and being reunited with her family seems less and less likely. During a visit to the hospital, Nohkum gives Eva Shirley&’s diary. Will the truths it holds help Eva understand her mother?Heartbreaking and humorous, Hopeless in Hope is a compelling story of family and forgiveness.
Siha Tooskin Knows the Sacred Eagle Feather (Siha Tooskin Knows)
by Charlene Bearhead Wilson BearheadPaul Wahasaypa—Siha Tooskin—can find eagle feathers in Ade&’s truck, on the dream catcher above his bed, on his Uncle Lenard&’s bustle, and in with the smudge bowls in all of his relatives&’ homes. Paul already knows that the eagle is important because of the way that his family respects and cares for eagle feathers. Now he&’s old enough for the teachings of where the feathers come from and why they are so sacred. Walk with Paul and Mitoshin (his grandfather) so you too will understand the teaching of the sacred eagle feather.The Siha Tooskin Knows series uses vivid narratives and dazzling illustrations in contemporary settings to share stories about an 11-year-old Nakota boy.
Indigenous Writes: A Guide to First Nations, Métis, & Inuit Issues in Canada
by Chelsea VowelDelgamuukw. Sixties Scoop. Bill C-31. Blood quantum. Appropriation. Two-Spirit. Tsilhqot&’in. Status. TRC. RCAP. FNPOA. Pass and permit. Numbered Treaties. Terra nullius. The Great Peace… Are you familiar with the terms listed above? In Indigenous Writes, Chelsea Vowel, legal scholar, teacher, and intellectual, opens an important dialogue about these (and more) concepts and the wider social beliefs associated with the relationship between Indigenous Peoples and Canada. In 31 essays, Chelsea explores the Indigenous experience from the time of contact to the present, through five categories—Terminology of Relationships; Culture and Identity; Myth-Busting; State Violence; and Land, Learning, Law, and Treaties. She answers the questions that many people have on these topics to spark further conversations at home, in the classroom, and in the larger community. Indigenous Writes is one title in The Debwe Series.
Siha Tooskin Knows the Love of the Dance (Siha Tooskin Knows)
by Charlene Bearhead Wilson BearheadPaul Wahasaypa—Siha Tooskin—has invited his friend, Jeff, to a powwow. It&’s Jeff&’s very first powwow, and is he ever nervous! What if he says or does the wrong thing? Grass dancers, Fancy Shawl dancers, Chicken dancers—what does it all mean? Follow along as Jeff learns all about the dances and their beautiful traditions. See you at the powwow!The Siha Tooskin Knows series uses vivid narratives and dazzling illustrations in contemporary settings to share stories about an 11-year-old Nakota boy.
Ghosts (The Reckoner)
by David A. RobertsonMysterious murders, shadowy figures, and high school. Life can be hard; death can be harder.Cole Harper is dead. Reynold McCabe is alive and free. Mihko Laboratories has reopened the research facility and works to manufacture and weaponize the illness that previously plagued Wounded Sky. People are missing, and the community has been quarantined. What deal did Eva strike with Choch? Who will defeat Reynold and Mihko? Time is running out.
Siha Tooskin Knows the Strength of His Hair (Siha Tooskin Knows)
by Charlene Bearhead Wilson BearheadWhere can you find strength when someone disrespects you? And what does having strength really mean?Paul Wahasaypa—Siha Tooskin—has learned from Ena (his mom) and Ade (his dad) to maintain a strong mind, heart, and spirit. Though starting at a new school can be hard, especially when the kids there have never experienced the values and culture of the Nakota people. Join Paul as Mitoshin (his grandfather) helps remind him how strength of character can be found in the strength of his hair.The Siha Tooskin Knows series uses vivid narratives and dazzling illustrations in contemporary settings to share stories about an 11-year-old Nakota boy.
The Evolution of Alice
by David A. RobertsonAlice is a single mother raising her three young daughters on the rez where she grew up. Life has never been easy, but she's managed to get by with the support of her best friend, Gideon, and her family. When an unthinkable loss occurs, Alice is forced to confront truths that will challenge her belief in herself and the world she thought she knew.Peopled with unforgettable characters and told from multiple points of view, this is a novel where spirits are alive, forgiveness is possible, and love is the only thing that matters.Reissued with a new story by David A. Robertson and foreword by Shelagh Rogers.
Will I See?
by David A. RobertsonMay, a young teenage girl, traverses the city streets, finding keepsakes in different places along her journey. When May and her kookum make these keepsakes into a necklace, it opens a world of danger and fantasy. While May fights against a terrible reality, she learns that there is strength in the spirit of those that have passed. But will that strength be able to save her? A story of tragedy and beauty, Will I See illuminates the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women.
The Frog Mother (Mothers of Xsan)
by Hetxw’ms Gyetxw HusonTo the Gitxsan of Northwestern British Columbia, Nox Ga&’naaw is a storyteller, speaking truths of the universe. After Nox Ga&’naaw, the frog mother, releases her eggs among the aquatic plants of a pond, the tiny tadpoles are left to fend for themselves. As they hatch, grow legs, and transform into their adult selves, they must avoid the mouths of hungry predators. Will the young frogs survive to spawn their own eggs, continuing a cycle 200 million years in the making?Book four of the Mothers of Xsan series follows the life cycle of the columbia spotted frog. Learn about why this species is of special significance to the Gitxsan and how Nox Ga'naaw and her offspring are essential to the balance that is life.
The Eagle Mother (Mothers of Xsan)
by Hetxw’ms Gyetxw HusonReturn to the valleys of the River of Mists with author Hetxw'ms Gyetxw (Brett D. Huson) and his award-winning, richly illustrative Mothers of Xsan series. &“An incredible celebration of the deep connections that are essential to the relationships between mothers and their children&”—The Globe and MailNox xsgyaak, the eagle mother, cares for her brood in the embrace of a black cottonwood with the help of her mate. Will both eaglets survive the summer in an environment that is both delicate and unforgiving?Learn about the life cycle of these stunning birds of prey, the traditions of the Gitxsan, and how bald eagles can enrich their entire ecosystem. Evocative illustration brings the Xsan's flora and fauna to life for middle years readers in book three of the Mothers of Xsan series.
The Rebel: Gabriel Dumont (Tales from Big Spirit #6)
by David A. RobertsonFor Tyrese, history class is the lowest point of his school day. This is, until his friend Levi reveals a secret -- a secret that brings history alive, in the form of one Gabriel Dumont. Through Dumont, a great Metis leader of the Northwest Resistance, the boys experience a bison hunt, a skirmish with the Blackfoot, and encounter with the great Louis Riel, and, ultimately, a great battle at Batoche, Saskatchewan.The Rebel is one book in the Tales from Big Spirit series. Tales from Big Spirit is a unique seven-book graphic novel series that delves into the stories of seven great Indigenous heroes from Canadian history—some already well known and others who deserve to be. Designed to correspond to grades 4–6 social studies curriculums across Canada, these full colour graphic novels could be used in literature circles, novel studies, and book clubs to facilitate discussion of social studies topics. These books will help students make historical connections while promoting important literacy skills.
Ispík kákí péyakoyak/When We Were Alone
by David A. RobertsonA young girl notices things about her grandmother that make her curious. Why does her grandmother have long, braided hair and beautifully coloured clothing? Why does she speak Cree and spend so much time with her family? As she asks questions, her grandmother shares her experiences in a residential school, when all of these things were taken away.When We Were Alone won the 2017 Governor General's Literary Award in the Young People's Literature (Illustrated Books) category, and was nominated for the TD Canadian's Children's Literature Award. This edition includes the text in Swampy Cree syllabics and Roman orthography, as well as the original English.
Where Did You Get Your Moccasins?
by Bernelda WheelerWhen a boy wears his new moccasins to a city school, his classmates want to know all about them. As the boy answers his classmate&’s questions, readers learn who Kookum is, where leather comes from, and how leather is traditionally prepared for moccasins. But where did the beads come from?Share this book with beginning readers to practise the important pre-reading concepts of rhythm and repetition.
When We Were Alone
by David A. RobertsonWinner of the 2017 Governor General's Literary Award! A young girl notices things about her grandmother that make her curious. Why does her grandmother have long, braided hair and beautifully coloured clothing? Why does she speak Cree and spend so much time with her family? As the girl asks questions, her grandmother shares her experiences in a residential school, when all of these things were taken away. Also available in a bilingual Swampy Cree/English edition. Download the free teacher guide on the Portage & Main Press website.
Resurgence: Engaging With Indigenous Narratives and Cultural Expressions In and Beyond the Classroom (The Footbridge)
by KC Adams Sonya Ballantyne Charlene Bearhead Wilson Bearhead Lisa Boivin Rita Bouvier Nicola I. Campbell Sara Florence Davidson Louise B. Halfe Lucy Hemphill Wanda John-Kehewin Elizabeth LaPensee Victoria McIntosh Reanna Merasty David A. Robertson Russell Wallace Christina Lavalley Ruddy★ Starred selection for CCBC's Best Books Ideal for Teachers 2023!Resurgence is an inspiring collection of contemporary Indigenous poetry, art, and narratives that guides K–12 educators in bridging existing curricula with Indigenous voices and pedagogies. In this first book in the Footbridge Series, we invite you to walk with us as we seek to: connect peoples and places link truth and reconciliation as ongoing processes symbolize the risk and urgency of this work for both Indigenous and settler educators engage tensions highlight the importance of balance, both of ideas and within ourselves Through critical engagement with each contributor&’s work, experienced educators Christine M&’Lot and Katya Adamov Ferguson support readers in connecting with Indigenous narratives and perspectives, bringing Indigenous works into the classroom, and creating more equitable and sustainable teaching practices. In this resource, you will find: diverse Indigenous voices, perspectives, and art forms from a variety of nations and locations valuable concepts and methods that can be applied to the classroom and beyond practical action steps and resources for educators, parents, librarians, and administrators Use this book as a springboard for your own learning journey or as a lively prompt for dialogue within your professional learning community.
Powwow Counting in Cree
by Penny M. ThomasThis unique counting book introduces Cree numbers, from one to ten. Featuring powwow imagery that reflects the rich culture and tradition of the Cree people, rhyme, rhythm, and glowing illustration combine to make language learning a joyful experience for young readers. A pronunciation guide is included in the back of the book. Winner of McNally Robinson Book for Young People AwardSelected for The Canadian Children&’s Book Centre&’s Best Books for Kids & TeensApproved resource for Manitoba classrooms
In Search of April Raintree
by Beatrice MosionierMemories. Some memories are elusive, fleeting, like a butterfly that touches down and is free until it is caught. Others are haunting. You'd rather forget them, but they won't be forgotten. And some are always there. No matter where you are, they are there, too.In this moving story of legacy and reclamation, two young sisters are taken from their home and family. Powerless in a broken system, April and Cheryl are separated and placed in different foster homes. Despite the distance, they remain close, even as their decisions threaten to divide them emotionally, culturally, and geographically. As one sister embraces her Métis identity, the other tries to leave it behind.Will the sisters&’ bond survive as they struggle to make their way in a society that is often indifferent, hostile, and violent?Beloved for more than 40 years, In Search of April Raintree is a timeless story that lingers long after the final page. This anniversary edition features a foreword by Governor General&’s Award–winning author Katherena Vermette, and an afterword by University of Regina professor, Dr. Raven Sinclair (Ôtiskewâpit), an expert on Indigenous child welfare.
The Land of Os: John Ramsay (Tales from Big Spirit #6)
by David A. RobertsonWhen Richard's class from Big Spirit School takes a canoe trip, he and his classmates chance upon an ederly woman. She tells them the story of her grandfather, John Ramsay, of the Sandy Bar community on Lake Winnipeg. Ramsay's land was taken by the government and given to the new settlers from Iceland who arrived there in 1875. Yet many owed their survival to Ramsay, who helped them through freezing winters, hunger, and a devastating smallpox epidemic.The Land of Os is one book in the Tales from Big Spirit series. Tales from Big Spirit is a unique seven-book graphic novel series that delves into the stories of seven great Indigenous heroes from Canadian history—some already well known and others who deserve to be. Designed to correspond to grades 4–6 social studies curriculums across Canada, these full colour graphic novels could be used in literature circles, novel studies, and book clubs to facilitate discussion of social studies topics. These books will help students make historical connections while promoting important literacy skills.
Achieving Indigenous Student Success: A Guide for Secondary Classrooms
by Pamela Rose ToulouseIn Achieving Indigenous Student Success, author Pamela Toulouse provides strategies, lessons, and hands-on activities that support both Indigenous and non-Indigenous learners in the secondary classroom. Read chapters on topics such as:Indigenous Pedagogy and Classrooms ConsiderationsIndigenous Self-Esteem and Mental Health ActivitiesDifferentiated Instruction and Bloom's TaxonomyAttrition, Retention, Transition, and Graduation ContinuumIndigenous Themes and Material ResourcesCulturally Appropriate Secondary Lesson Plans by Subject (including English, Math, Science, History, Geography, Health, Physical Education, Drama, Music, Visual Arts, Technological Studies, Business Studies, Indigenous Worldviews, Guidance and Career Studies, and Social Studies and the Humanities)This book is for all teachers of grades 9–12 who are looking for ways to infuse Indigenous perspectives into their courses. Ideas include best practices for retention/transition/graduation planning, differentiated instruction, assessment, and equity instruction. Using appropriate themes for curricular connections, the author presents a culturally relevant and holistic approach that helps to build bridges between cultures and fosters self-esteem in all students.
Strangers (The Reckoner)
by David A. RobertsonA talking coyote, mysterious illnesses, and girl trouble. Coming home can be murder...When Cole Harper gets a mysterious message from an old friend begging him to come home, he has no idea what he's getting into. Compelled to return to Wounded Sky First Nation, Cole finds his community in chaos: a series of shocking murders, a mysterious illness ravaging the residents, and reemerging questions about Cole&’s role in the tragedy that drove him away 10 years ago. With the aid of an unhelpful spirit, a disfigured ghost, and his two oldest friends, Cole tries to figure out his purpose, and unravel the mysteries he left behind a decade ago. Will he find the answers in time to save his community?
One Without the Other: Stories of Unity Through Diversity and Inclusion (Reimagining Inclusion: The ONE Series)
by Shelley MooreIn One Without the Other, Shelley Moore explore the changing landscape of inclusive education. Presented through real stories from her own classroom experience, this passionate and creative educator tackles such things as inclusion as a philosophy and practice, the difference between integration and inclusion, and how inclusion can work with a variety of students and abilities.
The First Day: A Story of Courage (The Seven Teachings Stories)
by Katherena VermetteMakwa&’s family just moved to the city, and it&’s his first day at a new school. He doesn&’t know anybody, he doesn&’t have any friends, and everything is so new and scary. Can Makwa find the courage to overcome his fears and enjoy his first day?In this relatable story, a young Anishinaabe boy learns that things that seem scary at first are often not so bad after all. A pronunciation guide for the Anishnaabemowin words can be found at the back of the book.Rich in culture and grounded in traditional knowledge, Katherena Vermette&’s The Seven Teachings Stories series features themes of love, wisdom, humility, courage, respect, honesty, and truth. Contemporary Indigenous children explore the Seven Teachings of the Anishinaabe through stories of home and family that will look familiar to all young readers in these books for ages 3–5.
Teacher, Take Care: A Guide to Well-Being and Workplace Wellness for Educators
by Cher Brasok Monika Cichosz Rosney Laura Doney Dana Fulwiler Volk Jackie Gagné Megan Hunter Kelsey McDonald Keith Macpherson Lisa Dumas Neufeld Sandra Pacheco Melo Richelle North Scott Joyce SunadaTeaching can be a highly satisfying profession, but it can also be overwhelming. Stress management. Self-care. Mental well-being. Mindfulness. These words have become all too familiar, but what do they actually mean for you? And how can they help without adding to your to-do list?All teachers have different experiences and different needs. Through stories by diverse educators, this professional resource invites you to try different wellness strategies, explore varying perspectives, and consider new ideas of what it means to &“be well.&”Grounded in servant leadership and a holistic model, each chapter connects to Indigenous perspectives of wellness through remarks from Elder Stanley Kipling and Knowledge Keeper Richelle North Star Scott.
Monsters (The Reckoner)
by David A. Robertson&“The ending...is so unexpected that readers will eagerly anticipate [the] third volume.&”—Kirkus ReviewsCole Harper is struggling to settle into life in Wounded Sky First Nation. He may have stopped a serial killer but the trouble is far from over. A creature lurks in the shadows of Blackwood Forest, the health clinic is on lockdown by a mysterious organization, and long-held secrets threaten to bubble to the surface. Can Cole learn the truth about his father's death? Why won't Choch give him a straight answer? Where the heck is Jayne? Oh, and high school sucks.
Spílexm: A Weaving of Recovery, Resilience, and Resurgence
by Nicola I. CampbellIf the hurt and grief we carry is a woven blanket, it is time to weave ourselves anew.In the Nłeʔkepmxcín language, spíləx̣m are remembered stories, often shared over tea in the quiet hours between Elders. Rooted within the British Columbia landscape, and with an almost tactile representation of being on the land and water, Spíləx̣m explores resilience, reconnection, and narrative memory through stories.Captivating and deeply moving, this story basket of memories tells one Indigenous woman&’s journey of overcoming adversity and colonial trauma to find strength through creative works and traditional perspectives of healing, transformation, and resurgence.