February Things and A New Book!

Enníhska - February

Happy last day of February everyone! I’m writing this in the last few hours of the day, as I am completely and utterly determined to blog at least once a month during this year—despite my schedule being what it is.

I know we likely all appreciate what it is to have more things to do than time to do them, and I myself have been as busy as ever with language learning and family. As there are only a few months left in the language program I'm in, I want to do my best to listen, focus, and otherwise soak up everything I can that will help me carry on when it’s over. And in a world where so much is happening, it is an immensely joyful thing to be reclaiming (however slowly) one of the languages of Turtle Island, to be trying to speak with others who are doing the same, and to be inspired by everyone who has come before, or has helped or encouraged this incredibly important work.

I’ve started to look ahead somewhat to what will come after the program is finished. I am teaching right now as well, of course, and enjoying the conversations I’m having in class. But May will soon arrive, and then I’ll have more opportunity to dive back into my creative and research work once again. To write, and paint, and play piano, and teach, and read, and think, and do whatever it is I can that will help our communities, and honour creation, and lift up those who are doing difficult work in difficult, trying times.

It is with this in mind that I happily share about a new book I am very honoured to have contributed to over the last two years. It is a beautiful and deeply encouraging story about drawing strength from our ancestors, teachings, lands, languages and each other, and also who we are as Indigenous peoples, to thrive in the world today. I am so grateful that a book like this is here, and must offer my wholehearted thank you to the authors Leona Prince and Gabrielle Prince, as well as the team at Orca Books, for inviting me to bring my art to this wonderful story. The book is called “Remember Who You Are” and it is available for order now through Orca Books.

Remember Who You Are

And here is the lovely book blurb from Orca Books:

You are more powerful than you imagine.

In this lyrical picture book, young readers are reminded of their cultural roots, the wisdom of their ancestors and their own potential. Each page offers an affirmation about identity, respect, love and truth, encouraging all children to embrace their unique gifts and power. From the resilience flowing through their veins to the knowledge written in the stars, Remember Who You Are inspires children to see themselves as integral parts of their community, capable of great leadership and great kindness.

Perfect for bedtime reading and classroom discussions, this book fosters a deep sense of belonging and pride by celebrating Indigenous heritage and reminding young readers who they truly are. Available in French as N'oublie jamais qui tu es.

And Speaking of Languages:

The book was also translated into Cree by Dorothy Thunder :).

Cree Book Cover :)

I hope you are able to pick this book up for all the little people in your life, but also your friends, families and schools, too. So much love went into it and I hope that comes through when you read it! :)

Anyways, there is more book news to come, but I am incredibly grateful to be able to start with this one for now.

Sending lot of love and light to you all.

S.

I