FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Curriculum Laboratory
First Nations Materials Across the Curriculum
For further assistance using any of the resources in the Lab, please ask at the Curriculum Lab Information Services Desk. Visit our site
through U of L Library’s main page http://www.uleth.ca/lib.
The following lists of First Nations Teaching Materials are derived primarily from the Edmonton Public Schools Aboriginal Database. With
permission, we have included the majority of First Nations Titles they recommend, as well as the text of their reviews.
LINKS TO LISTS OF SUGGESTED FNMI MATERIALS BY SUBJECT
ART
HEALTH/CALM
SOCIAL STUDIES
(Overlap with Language Arts Content)
LANGUAGE ARTS
(Considerable overlap with Social Studies content)
SCIENCE
OTHER SUBJECTS
USEFUL SOURCES FOR FINDING FNMI MATERIALS
Edmonton Public Schools Aboriginal Collection Online
Edmonton Public Schools has created one of the best Canadian bibliographic resources for First Nations titles for children. It includes over 400
titles, specifically linked to the Alberta curriculum. As explained on the site:
Return to Subject Links
1
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
“Each book in the Aboriginal Collection has been reviewed at least twice. Once by an educator, and once by a member of the Aboriginal
Community. When possible, the Aboriginal reviewer was a member of the culture represented in the book e.g. Métis, Cree First Nation,
Inuit, Dene”
The emphasis on involving First Nations reviewers and on selecting compelling titles that celebrate Aboriginal diversity in a positive way make
the Aboriginal Collection Online an invaluable tool. Like most Edmonton Public School Products, this database is available to schools as a
subscription service. Faculty of Education students have access through our “Great Sites Link” (Digital Resource Subscriptions). The database
lists their most recent material first, so you can easily check for updates.
Primary Source: Edmonton Public Schools Aboriginal Collection Online
U of L FNMI Curriculum Collection Database
The titles on the following lists will help you quickly identify FNMI content materials that are in the Curriculum Lab and relate to the Alberta Program
of Studies. Another important tool is the Faculty of Education’s online First Nations Métis, and Inuit (FNMI) Curriculum Collection. It is a collection
of lessons and resources designed to help pre and inservice teachers incorporate FNMI content in their teaching across subjects and grade
levels. One can browse through the collection or search by categories (e.g. subject, title, key word, grade, etc.). One can contribute to the
collection by creating and submitting new lessons or resources that will become available upon approval by the manager of the collection. Created
by Dr. Cathy Campbell and Dr. Marlo Steed.
Curriculum Lab/Public Library
1. Browse the Shelves
In A Specific Subject Area: Look up your specific subject (geometry, poetry, light etc). Once you find the Dewey Decimal Number (eg.
512, 811, 534) you can search the collection in that area. Check special collections such as the hang-up bags.
For Social Studies Material:
970.1 -- North American native people
970.3 -- Specific native peoples
970.4 -- Native people in specific places
971 -- Geography and history of Canada
For Folklore: Folklore and legends of First Nations peoples is located under the call # 398.2089.
2. Search the Library Catalogue (Important: The library catalogue uses terms that are not culturally sensitive. See detailed note below.)*.
Search for Fiction and Non-Fiction: Start your keyword search with any of the words in these subject headings: "Native Peoples,"
"Indians of North America," or "Indian" You can also insert a geographical subdivision like "Canada" or "Alberta”.*
Sample Searches: indians art, native tools, indians music canada, indians medicine
Search for Fiction Only: can be found throughout the Fiction section. You can add the word "fiction" to your keyword search. Use a
specific First Nations group for the best results. e.g. Siksika fiction, Blackfoot Fiction, Cree Fiction
Return to Subject Links
2
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
3. Check Basic Texts for Suggested First Nations Titles (Important: The library catalogue uses terms that are not culturally sensitive)
The document “Education is Our Buffalo: A Teachers’ Resource for First Nations, Metis and Inuit Education in Alberta" (2006) talks
about the development of First Nations Curriculum in Alberta. One of the goals of Alberta Education is to increase the knowledge
among all Albertans of the governance, history, treaty and Aboriginal culture and language. Since then, there has been a push to
integrate FNMI (First Nations, Metis, and Inuit) perspectives into new curriculum in Alberta, including social studies, fine arts, physical
education, literacy, and science (p 51). It will be useful to check these basic Alberta textbook resources, to see what FNMI lessons,
activities, and titles they suggest.
Lists of Alberta textbooks for each subject can be found under Step 3 of our Specific School Subject handouts.
*Note: The library catalogue search terms suggested above are not culturally sensitive. Like a large portion of libraries worldwide, we increase accessibility to
information by using standardized terms based on The Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH). The Library Science community is cognizant of the need to
remove cultural and gender biases from the LCSH, and recent developments in Library of Congress policies suggest that these necessary changes may be
considered in the future.
FNMI Literature Kits
While we have many FNMI literature titles spread across the collection, below are two kits which make an excellent starting point in your efforts to
integrate FNMI topics and literature across the curriculum. The kits contain a selection of literature tiles, grade level lists of suggested titles, and
related lesson plans. The materials included in the collection were selected by a contracted professional and reviewed/approved by SAPDC staff
and two educators, one of Aboriginal ancestry.
• Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium (SAPDC) (2010). Literature to support First Nations, Metis, and Inuit
(FNMI) student success in elementary schools (30 titles included). Oversize 970.1 Lit
• Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium (SAPDC) (2010). Literature to support First Nations, Metis, and Inuit (FNMI)
student success in junior high schools 7-9 (30 titles included). Oversize 970.1 Lit
The goal of each of these kits is to support student success by using literature to help promote cultural
awareness, develop respect for diversity, and build pride in the First Nations student.
WHY INCLUDE FNMI MATERIAL ACROSS THE CURRICULUM?
Alberta Education supports the integration of FNMI content into all subjects:
“Aboriginal content can be infused into the regular Kindergarten to Grade 12 programs of study. Infusion of Aboriginal content is not an
add-on or a special event—it is an integral, embedded and ongoing aspect of classroom experience. . . The infusion of Aboriginal content
into the regular curriculum ensures
that all students have opportunities to learn about the historical and contemporary contributions and cultures of Aboriginal peoples”.
Alberta Education. Aboriginal Services Branch and Learning and Teaching Resources Branch. 2005.
Our Words, Our Ways: Teaching First Nations, Métis and Inuit Learners (p. 53)
“Alberta Education is working to include Aboriginal perspectives in all subject areas, including fine arts, physical education, literacy and
science. Additional teaching and learning resources will be identified to support these curriculum outcomes”.
Alberta Teachers’ Association (2002). Education is our buffalo: a teachers’ resource for First Nations, Metis and Inuit Education in Alberta. Edmonton: ATA
Return to Subject Links
3
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
WHAT OTHER RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE?
The Curriculum Laboratory handout First Nations Teaching Resources.
Alberta Teachers’ Association (2002). Education is our buffalo: a teachers’ resource for First Nations, Metis and Inuit Education in Alberta.
Edmonton: Alberta Teacher’s Association. (970.4123 Edu)
Indian and Northern Affairs (2000). The learning circle: classroom activities on First Nations in Canada (Ages 4-7, 8-11, 12-14). Ottawa:
Indian and Northern Affairs. (970.41 Lea)
Education is our buffalo and the learning circle documents are excellent starting points for any teacher wanting to incorporate First Nation’s
themes into their classroom curriculum. The documents include the following sections: definitions, understanding Aboriginal histories, Aboriginal
spirituality and teachings, cultural traditions, misconceptions about Aboriginal people, recent developments in K-12 Aboriginal Education,
incorporating Aboriginal teaching into today’s classrooms, the family, reserves, water, self-government, etc.. The website also includes Life In An
Inuit Community, and a Crunchers colouring craft and game.
Alberta Education (2002). First Nations, Metis and Inuit (FNMI) education policy framework. Edmonton: Alberta Learning. (E 96.65 A4 A457
2002)
Alberta Education (2005). Our words, our ways: teaching First Nations, Metis and Inuit learners. Edmonton: Alberta Education. (970.4123 Our)
Goodminds.com Subject Booklist:
Browse a variety of general subjects, or do specific searches. Goodminds.com is a Canadian bookstore that strives:
•
•
To make it easy for educators, librarians and interested individuals to find the best Native North American Educational Resources available.
This includes hard cover and soft cover books, multimedia CD-ROMs, videos, cassettes and educational kits covering all subject
categories, all Nations, and all grade levels.
To offer complete descriptions and evaluations of every item they offer.
Jones, Guy (2002). Lessons from Turtle Island: Native curriculum in early childhood classrooms. St. Paul: Redleaf Press. 970.1 Jon.
Includes Native issues in education, children, home, families, community, the environment, and guidelines for teachers.
Kainai Board of Education (2006). Aboriginal Studies 10-20-30 (Aboriginal perspectives, peoples and cultural change, contemporary
issues). Edmonton: Duvall House Publishing. 970.41 Abo.
FURTHER SUGGESTIONS FOR FNMI INFUSION
When incorporating Aboriginal teaching into the classroom, "Education is our buffalo" gives all teachers some helpful suggestions, including:
•
•
Create a welcoming atmosphere in your classroom by encouraging linkages and partnerships with members of the community.
Involve Aboriginal liaison personnel in working with community members.
Return to Subject Links
4
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
•
•
•
•
Make use of local curriculum materials and activities, including materials prepared by Aboriginal elders.
Nurture an atmosphere in your classroom where everyone’s culture is valued, where mutual respect is held as a basic classroom
paradigm.
Review any curriculum materials to ensure cultural accuracy and respect, and do not include potentially offensive or trivializing elements.
Avoid singling out First Nations students. Validate all aspects of knowledge students bring to the classroom, including all the cultures
represented in your class. (p. 52-53.)
First Nations Materials Across the Curriculum
ART
Author:
Simpson,
Caroll
Yerxa, Leo
Steltzer,
Ulli
Cherrington,
Janelle
Title:
The First
Mosquito
Ancient
Thunder
The spirit of
Haida Gwaii:
Bill Reid’s
Masterpiece
Collection
Availability:
Description/Review:
2010
F Sim
(EPS) A young boy named Yaz decides to go into the woods where he lost his
spear when practicing his spear throwing. He thinks he is old enough, even
though he has been warned about the dangers in the forest. Yaz gets lost and
meets several mythical creatures like Lightening Snakes and Mouse Woman. He
is also chased by the Wild Man of the Forest and the Bloodsucking Monster and
his mother saves him by using her wisdom. The vibrant art in the book will
engender a lot of discussion and an interest in the art and culture of the First
Peoples of the Pacific Northwest. The author's notes include an explanation of
Supernatural Creatures and Beings as well as artwork depicting some of the
supernatural creatures from the stories of the people of the Pacific Northwest.
Canadian.
2006
599.6655
Yer
(EPS) This wonderfully lyric text is inspired by the author's love of horses and
the traditional clothing of the plains people. Each page is a work of art (collage).
A must-have for teaching the art curriculum, particularly: fabric arts,
representing texture, creating foreground and background.
Art
Pre-K-6
1997
Main
Library
E99 H2
S77 1997
(EPS) Artist Bill Reid was internationally known for his totem poles and other
large pieces. This book follows the process as Bill creates his masterpiece: a
bronze 20 ft long canoe filled to overflowing with creatures of Haida mythology.
Superb photographs show the different steps in the process: models, clay work,
plaster casts, carving, bronze casting etc. A wonderful companion to the
children's book: The boat he called Loo Tass.
Art
K-12
Art
1-3
Art
4-12
Date:
Native American 2003
baskets
Native American 2000
look book: art
and activities for
kids from the
Brooklyn
Museum
Return to Subject Links
746.412
Che
730.089
Nat
Part of a Phonics Readers Series. Photos and text introduce Southwestern
traditions of basket making. Useful as extra reading for students in a related unit.
The Brooklyn Museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in the United
States with an outstanding collection of Native American art and artifacts. Its
education department is considered one of the most innovative in the world. With
beautiful color and black-and-white images of items in the collection, the book
includes do-it-yourself activities, related myths and legends and profiles of
contemporary practitioners who continue these traditional crafts today.
Subject
Gr.
Art/
Language
Arts
K-9
5
Author:
Title:
Gaspas,
Dianne
Southwest
Indian designs
coloring book
Doolittle, Bev The forest has
eyes
McNutt, Nan
The button
blanket: a
northwest coast
Indian art activity
book
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2003
745.409
Clear B & W reproducibles introduce authentic designs and patterns from rugs,
Gas
masks, sand paintings, pottery, jewelry, baskets, and other artifacts created by
Art
4-12
southwestern Native Americans. A great source of ideas for creating stylized art.
1998
970.1 Doo Doolittle’s specialty is camouflage art, in which hidden images are subtly woven
into the main one, adding an unexpected dimension to the scene. In one painting,
rocks and grass form a wolf's head while in another gray rocks around a watering
Art
4-8
hole magically become buffalo in the pool's reflection. An imaginative vehicle for
getting youngsters to slow down and take another look. A School Library Journal
review celebrated the art, but found the accompanying poetry flat and preachy.
2002
745.5 McN These volumes are reviewed for cultural accuracy by tribal members, and
Northwest Native artists create all the artwork. Each book includes various games
Art
4-8
and activities, plus a teaching guide.
Perham, Molly North American 1999
totem poles:
secrets and
symbols of North
America
Broida,
Projects about
2004
Marian
the Plains
Indians
Benes,
Native American 2004
Rebecca
picture books of
change: the art
of historic
children's
editions
Vickers, Roy
Henry
Spirit
transformed: a
1996
299.7317
Per
On order.
810.8 Ben
On order
journey from tree to
totem
Gibson,
Katherine
Ted Harrison:
Painting
Paradise
Paul-Dene,
Simon
I am the eagle
free (sky song)
Return to Subject Links
2009
1992
On Order.
398.2089
Pau
The First Peoples of the Pacific coast recorded their history and preserved their
legends, myths and stories on spectacularly-carved totem poles. This book
includes 7 plastic pieces to show show students. Legends describing the culture of
specific Northwest Coast Peoples are included. Excellent introduction to the
symbols and art of the totem pole.
Instructions for several crafts celebrating traditions of the Plains people. The
materials used are not necessarily already on hand, however, and editorial reviews
point out several questionable comments such as use of the term “squaw”.
Illustrated with 150 enchanting paintings and historical photographs, some from
as early as 1922, the author describes the history and motivation behind some of
the most exceptional children's books published in the U.S. These picture book
readers, originally developed for use in Indian schools during the New Deal,
represent the first Native-centred texts used in Bureau of Indian Affairs
curriculum. They were written by lauded writers, ethnologists and linguists, and
illustrated with the stunning work of emerging and prominent Native American
artists.
Spirit Transformed tells the amazing story of a majestic cedar's journey from the
forest to totem, as well as Vickers' own conquering of personal difficulties and the
marvelous way he has combined modern technology with the art of carving.
Art
4-8
Art
4-9
Art
8-12
Art
9-12
(EPS) This biography of renowned artist Ted Harrison is itself a work of art. It is
also a treasure house of little known details, sketches, and anecdotes. "Ted
arrived hot, sweaty and covered in road dust to be greeted with disdain by an
exceedingly regimental-minded sergeant major" is only one example of the
wonderful writing contained within. A must for every library!
Art
Pre-12
A colourful picture book for young readers written and illustrated by Dene artist
Simon Paul-Dene. This is a Six Nations Iroquois story reinterpreted by the author
through original art. Based on the legend about the Hermit Thrush, the story
involves a contest among all the birds to see who could fly the highest and sing
the sweetest song. The text is easy to read and is enhanced by the full-colour
illustrations. A recommended book for Kindergarten to Grade 4 (Goodminds.com).
Art,
Language
Arts
6
K-4
Author:
Goble,
Paul.
Taylor, C.J.
Brodsky,
Beverly
Title:
Earth Made
New The
Plains
Indians:
Stories of
Creation
Spirits, Fairies
and
Merpeople
Buffalo
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2009
2009
2003
Burnett, Millie Dance down the 1975
rain, sing up the
corn: American
In
Process
(EPS) This revised edition of the “Earth Made New” contains pages of colorful
illustrations, interesting and informative stories, quotations, a forward by Joe
Medicine Crow and an introduction to Creation stories by Paul Goble. The story
revolves around Earth after the flood and the beauty of the buffalo, mountains,
plants, birds and horses. It's an ideal book to read aloud to most age groups.
Children can also draw images from the story.
Art/
Language
Arts
4-6
In
Process
(EPS) This delightful First Nations legend is a collection of mystical creatures
and powerful spirits. It includes legends from several Native groups including
the Cree (theme of good and evil), Mohawk (greed and forgiveness) and
Micmac (life and death). Each legend is beautifully illustrated by acclaimed
artist C.J. Taylor with rich, vibrant colors and designs. This books is suitable for
Grades 3 and up.
Art/
Language
Arts
4-6
In
Process
(EPS) This book is a magnificent collage bringing together visual imagery,
teachings, historical detail and tribal song poems. By using a multi-layered
perspective, Brodsky conveys a depth of understanding. A must-have for any
collection on art, poetry, or history of the demise of the buffalo.
Art/
Language
Arts/
Social
Studies
4-12
Art/ Music
4-6
Art/
Science
K-6
970.1 Bur
Includes songs, dances, games, art and craft ideas, literature and cooking
projects. Activities are associated with a particular First Nations group (American).
Indian American
chants and games for
children
McDougall,
Carol
A Salmon’s
Sky View
Learn the
Colours With
Northwest Coast
Native Art
Learn the
Alphabet with
Northwest Coast
Native Art
Return to Subject Links
(EPS) An extraordinary book that looks at images as seen through the eyes of a
salmon maturing through different stages of life. Each page introduces young
readers to the phases of a salmon life cycle; egg, alevin, fry, fingerling, smolt
and adult. At the end of the book are directions to create some of the
watercolour effects used in the illustrations. It would be a good resource to use
for teaching perspective either in art, or in relationships!
2009
2010
On Order.
(EPS) This is a board book but because the art it is a good addition to an
elementary division 1 library as well. Great to use for teaching colours,
Northwest Coast clans and art forms. Part of series: Native Elements
Art/
Language
Arts
Pre-3
2010
On Order.
(EPS) This is a board book, but nevertheless a good addition to a collection of
alphabet books. Beautiful Northwest Coast art illustrates each letter so it is also
a collection of 26 different artworks! Part of series: Native Elements
Art/
Language
Arts
Pre-K-3
7
Author:
Johnson,
Emily
Pauline
Wisniewsk,
David
Kronowitz,
Ellen
WoodSalomon,
Zoey
Wasiak, E.
(U of L
Education)
Trottier,
Maxine
Title:
The Lost
Island
The Wave of
the Sea Wolf
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2004
1994
Native American 2000
arts and cultures
Healing
Through Art
Iitaohkanao'pi:
the meeting
place
Native Crafts:
Inspired by
North
America’s First
Peoples.
Northwest
Coast First
Nations and
Native Art
Colouring and
Learning Book
Return to Subject Links
2006
2002
2000
2010
F Joh
(EPS) A haunting tale of one of the legends of Vancouver, this story spans past
and present. If you have ever been to the West Coast you will recognize the
flora and fauna of this spectacularly illustrated book. It is a MUST for every art
teacher. It is obvious that the Mohawk author, Pauline Johnson, was a renowned
poet as the text is lyrical. It is meant to be read aloud to Division II and
Division III. Canadian.
Art/
Language
Arts
4-9
On Order.
(EPS) In this story, Kehokeen, a Tlingit princess, is rescued from drowning by a
guardian spirit that later enables her to summon a great wave to protect her
and her people from hostile strangers. The images are reminiscent of a graphic
novel while it explains natural phenomena and animal behavior. The art is
complex and vibrant, as well as both traditional and contemporary. Students will
be engaged by the story and the art.
Art/
Language
Arts
6-9
Art/Language
Arts
4-6
Art/
Language
Arts/
Heath
4-9
Art/Music
K-6
Trottier treats her subject matter with great respect, and clearly establishes that
the 16 crafts are "inspired" by the first peoples and are not t"authentic"
reproductions. Each craft item is initially introduced by a paragraph which
illuminates its original role or purpose in the culture.
Art/Native
Studies
1-6
(EPS) Each picture in this coloring book represents an important animal in
Pacific Northwest Aboriginal cultures. The caption under each picture consists of
a quotation by noted Aboriginal artists from this territory. Part of series:
Explore the Animals.
Art/
Science
4-6
970.1 Kro
811.6
Woo
Series: Teacher Created Resources. Collections of worksheet-based activities
grouped around themes such as homes and lodges, dance and drama,
transportation and trade. Useful sponge activities for multiple subjects. American
Content, but the individuality of specific groups is recognized.
(EPS) A true creative expression of a woman's view of the world through her
eyes, heart and hands. The text of this book is written in both English and
Ojibwe and a small colourful painting accompanies each poem.
780.78 Was A multidimensional project using myths and legends of the Blackfoot people as
narratives. Includes: an instructional unit that explores new approaches to the
traditional educational children's concert; a culminating concert of new music,
dance, drama, and multimedia art; and, a research study that examines student
and teacher experiences as participants in this project.
745.5 Tro
8
Author:
Bouchard,
Dave
Dewey,
Jennifer
Owings
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Title:
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
The elders are
1997
759.11 Bou First released in 1990, this combination of poetic art explores the theme of First
watching
Nations and their relationship to the environment. Twenty-five evocative, colour
images drawn by Vickers are combined with four-line verses written by Bouchard.
Together the Tsimshian artist and the British Columbian teacher gently focus the
Art/Science
4-9
reader's attention to the importance of the environment and the teachings of the
elders (Goodminds.com). Excellent for Art, Language Arts, or in Environmental
Science Units.
Stories on
2003
709.0113 What could be a dry and difficult subject is made enjoyable in a brief, readable
stone: rock art
text inspired by the author’s childhood love of the rock paintings and chippings
Art/Social
1-3
images from the
created by the first southwestern people. Excellent addition to a study of ancient
ancient ones
cultures or world art.
Auger, Dale
Medicine Paint
Harrison,
Ted
Children of
the Yukon
Van Camp,
Richard
What’s The
Most Beautiful
Thing You
Know About
Horses?
ReidStevens,
Amanda
Littlechild,
George
2009
Main
Library
ND
249A945
A4 2005
1977
971.91
Har
(EPS) This book contains many of the paintings of the late Dale Auger, gifted
artist from the Bigstone Cree Nation. An excellent addition to any art library.
Art/Social
Studies
K-12
(EPS) While it has been 30 years since this book was first published, it has
withstood the test of time. It could be used as an author study of Ted Harrison,
to introduce an art lesson on painting with acrylics, or as a reference book for
the Yukon.
Art/Social
Studies
K-4
(EPS) This beautifully illustrated book is a must-have for any library. It is
humourous, playful and entices the reader to see the world in new ways. It
lends itself well to grades 1-6 lessons in art, social studies, and in inquiry
lessons.
Art/Social
Studies
K-6
(EPS) is not your typical elementary school book. It is modeled after an art
exhibit guide, in this case a traveling exhibit created in 2005 to mark the
Saskatchewan centennial celebrations. We have included it because of the
wealth of cultural & historical knowledge conveyed as the items are described. A
must for every art teacher interested in how folk art from our First Nations and
Metis people is being sustained.
Art/Social
Studies
4-12
1998
On Order.
Clearing a
Path: New
Ways of
Seeing
Traditional
Indigenous
Art
2009
Main
Library
E98 A7
C584
2009
The Canoe He
Called Loo
Taas
2010
623.829
Rei
(EPS) Loo Taas (wave eater) is the 50-foot canoe designed by artist Bill Reid
and then carved by members of the Haida community. In 2009 it was used to
carry the Olympic torch while touring the Haida Gwaii.
Art/Social
Studies
4-6
970.4 Lit
(EPS) Through bold, colourful paintings George Littlechild tells us of his life as a
Cree man in today's world. Each colourful collage-type painting includes
descriptive text and explains how the image is connected to First Nations
history and culture. Aside from being a wonderful book for an art class, this
book encompasses many of the issues facing Aboriginal people today and thus
is an excellent resource!
Art/Social
Studies
4-8
This Land is
My Land
Return to Subject Links
1993
9
Author:
Braman,
Arlette
Brooks,
Diane
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Title:
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
Traditional
2000
745 Bra
Fun and easy-to-follow projects, recipes, and games highlighting specific groups.
Native American
Projects include:Tlingit button blanket, Yupik wild raspberry dessert, and a
Art/Social
4-9
arts and
traditional Seminole patchwork design. Some Canadian content. Multiple Uses.
Studies
activities
Spring
Blizzard
Pow wow
Return to Subject Links
1999
1993
On Order.
(EPS) This book is about Susan and her dog Uviluq and their adventures in the
snow during a spring blizzard. Other than the name of the dog and being
published in Yellowknife, there is no link to the Inuit. However, this book can be
used as a read aloud or in a class library. The illustrations can be used in art as
curricular integration for the grade two social studies unit on the Inuit.
Art/Social
Studies/
Language
Arts
K-3
On Order
(EPS) This is a stunning collection of photographs of First Nations powwow
dancers in full regalia. What is particularly rich is that the dancers are identified
by name and Nation and speak for themselves about the importance of powwow
traditions. The dancers range in age from elementary to senior citizens (just as
they do at a powwow). Curricular links include: art, Aboriginal studies, social
studies, health (identity) Physical education (dance).
Art/Social
Studies/
Physical
Education
K-6
10
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
First Nations Materials Across the Curriculum HEALTH/CALM
Author:
Olsen,
Karen
White, Tara
Loyi, Larry
and
Constance
Brissenden
Olsen,
Sylvia
Title:
Ears, Eyes,
Nose and
Mouth
I Like Who I
am
The Gathering
Tree
The Yellow Line
Date:
2005
2008
2005
2005
Collection
Availability:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
In
Process
(EPS)Part of the Caring for Me series, this book focuses on ear, nose and mouth
care and hygiene. The characters are a young Aboriginal boy, his sister and his
mother. After getting a bead stuck in his nose, the boy discusses with the doctor
ways to keep his eyes, ears, nose and mouth healthy. Directly corresponds with
K,Gr.1 health curriculum. Possible connection to Gr 1 science on senses. Part of
series: Caring for Me.
Health
Pre-K-3
F Whi
(EPS)When a blond, blue-eyed Mohawk named Celina moves to the reserve, she
accused of not being Mohawk. This story is wonderful for exploring bullying, what
it means to identify yourself as part of a culture and life on reserves. The loving
relationships, supportive friends and inner strength that help Celina also offer a
fresh perspective of life on reserves.
Health
K-5
Health/
Language
Arts
6-9
F Ols
This novel is the age old tale of racism and hatred with a sprinkling of Romeo
and Juliet. It illuminates what life is like for many of our First Nations students
who come from reserves into local schools. While essentially this is a hopeful
story, it does touch on some raw topics. A great addition to a text set on racism
as it is not one sided in its approach.
Health/
Language
Arts
7-12
Health/
Language
Arts
6-9
Health/
Language
Arts
2-6
F Loy
This is a gentle, positive story of a First Nations family dealing with the HIV
infection of one of their relatives. The children are surprised that their cousin
with HIV looks no different. Together they run a marathon and at a healing
gathering and share the story of being HIV positive.
Hudson,
Jan
Sweetgrass
1984
F Hud
(EPS) Sweetgrass is a 15 year old member of the Blood tribe. Becoming a
woman is everything to her and she worries about her parents choosing a
husband for her when she already loves somebody else. The story is set in the
19th century but Sweetgrass appears to be more representative of today than of
the 19th century. Teachers need to be cautioned against using this book if it is
meant to support a historical unit in social studies. It would be a novel better
suited to the exploration of identity, gender issues and feminism. It is not
recommended for grade 4 social studies.
Salonen,
Roxanne
Beauclair
First Salmon
2005
F Sal
Each summer the Salish people gather together to celebrate the first salmon
returning. This year, Charlie is grieving the loss of a beloved uncle. Gradually the
traditions soothe his sorrow and he "returns to a welcoming place of belonging"
Return to Subject Links
11
Author:
Denny,
Elizabeth
Bruchac,
Jospeh and
Anna Vojtech
Dorion,
Leah
Joe, Rita
Title:
Jenneli’s Dance
The First
Strawberries
The Giving
Tree: A
Retelling of a
Traditional
Metis Story
For the
Children
Return to Subject Links
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2008
1998
F Den
Jenneli, a young Metis girl, is not confident that she is good enough to dance in
the upcoming Jigging Contest. Her grandmother teaches her about the Metis
culture and the importance of jigging. Her teacher encourages her to teach her
classmates how to jig. Jenneli puts aside self doubt and fear, and dances in the
contest. She wins first place and experiences a boost in pride and self-esteem.
The cartoon format will attract students. It ties into Native Studies and Social
Studies.
Health/
Social
Studies
Health/
398.2089 Retelling of a Cherokee story exploring the themes of anger, hurt and forgiveness in
Language
Bru
a gentle, lyrical manner that resonates with young readers.
Arts
2009
398.208
9 Dor
2008
811.6
Joe
This beautiful retelling of a traditional Metis legend revolves around the
importance of the Giving Tree and how it was used to communicate and deliver
the core values of the Metis. The tree was based on honesty, sharing, respect
and strength. A value wheel, glossary of values and a Metis decision making
model are included in the book. The illustrations are vivid and stunning. The
book includes a CD in English and Michif. Will appeal to most students.
(EPS) This small but powerful collection of poetry speaks eloquently of the
importance of love, belonging, culture, identity and connection to the land. It
would be a great addition to Aboriginal studies 20/30, as part of CALM or to fulfill
many of the ELA outcomes.
1-6
EC-3
Health/
Social
Studies
1-6
CALM/
Language
Arts/
Aboriginal
Studies
7-9
12
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
First Nations Materials Across the Curriculum SOCIAL STUDIES
Author:
Schreiber,
Dorothy
Edlund,
laura
Martin,
Jacqueline
Briggs
Marshall,
Diana
Title:
Date:
The little trapper 1999
(videorecording)
The Inuksuk:
Guide to the
North
The Lamp, The
Ice and the
Boat Called
Fish
Northwest
Territories
Collection
Description/Review:
Subject
Availability:
970.4123 Robert Grandjambe, Jr., is a unique and industrious 13-year-old kid. While his peers
Lit Gr. 4-6 are adopting a more modern, urban lifestyle, Robert is continuing the traditions of
Social
his Cree forebears. Equally at home in town or in the bush, the young boy is The
Studies
Little Trapper, hunting, fishing and learning to live off the land. National Film
Board of Canada.
Gr.
4-6
2007
(EPS) A small yet informative book about Inuksuit, their meaning, purpose and
value to the Inuit in Nunavut complete with pictures and terminology. A teacher’s
shared reading plan booklet, a big book and CD version also form part of the
Grade 2 package. Great resource recommended for the Grade 2 Curriculum.
Canadian.
Social
Studies
1-3
2001
919.804
Mar
(EPS) Based on a true story of the 1913 expedition aboard the Karluk (the
Aleutian word for "fish"), that sailed from British Columbia to the Arctic Circle.
The ship’s passengers and crew led by Vilhjalmur Stefansson survive with help of
the Inupiaq (Alaskan Inuit). The book contains the names of the crew and
passengers including the photographs of the Inupiaq family who travelled and on
the ship. Child-friendly text told in chapter format with beautiful illustrations.
Social
Studies
3-6
On Order
The layout, text, illustrations and photographs provide a detailed and informative
looked at Nortwest Territories from the land, resources, history and culture to its
people. A glossary, quiz and several facts are written in the book providing
several opportunities for discussion. Great addition to the classroom or school
library. Curriculum connection to 2.1 Canada's Dynamic Communities
Social
Studies
3-6
Social
Studies
3-7
2008
The layout, text, illustrations and photographs provide a detailed and informative
looked at Nunavut from the land, resources, history and culture to its people. A
glossary, quiz and several facts are written in the book providing several
opportunities for discussion. Great addition to the classroom or school library.
Curriculum connection to 2.1 Canada's Dynamic Communities
Beckett,
Harry
Nunavut
2008
971.95
Bec
Nelson,
Odile
Moe & Malaya
Visit the Nurse
2010
On Order
When Malaya goes to the nurse for a checkup her cousin Moe comes along for
the adventure. Children learn who can become a nurse, what they do with their
strange tools, and the different kinds of jobs available to nurses. Join these two
fun loving characters as they learn how cool nursing can be.
Social
Studies
Pre-K
On Order
(EPS) Mary's mother wants her to learn about her Shawnee heritage and
Grandma suggests a Shawnee naming ceremony. This is the story of how the
Shawnee's traditional naming ceremony unfolds. Included in this book are a
short history of the Shawnee people, 32 picture cards and a pronunciation key
for each word on these cards. This is a beautiful book connecting the traditional
Shawnee and the present-day American. [review by Cheryl Drewicki, April 2011]
Social
Studies
Pre-K
Watkins,
Sherrin
White Bead
Ceremony
Return to Subject Links
1994
13
Author:
Title:
Newbery,
Nick
Iqaluit
Silversides,
Brock
Fort de
Prairies: the
Story of Fort
Edmonton
Bussidor,
Ila
Night Spirits
Payne,
Michael
The Fur Trade
in Canada
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2009
2005
On Order
A magnificent book about Iqaluit: the people, land, animals, culture, traditions,
art, transportation and traditional games. An informative book filled with detailed
photographs that will engage the reader. A great addition to the classroom or
school library for students of all ages.
Social
Studies
1-12
F1095 E3
S55
This is an excellent historical reference, made more interesting by all of the local
famous names referenced in the timeline of the fort. * A lot of the eyewitness
accounts of various events include derogatory names and judgments regarding
Aboriginals, so a bit of a warning, but still a good chronological work. [review by
Bruce Rooney]
Social
Studies
5-10
Social
Studies
5-10
Social
Studies
4-9
Social
Studies
2-5
1997
E99 T56
BB87
2004
HD
9944.C2
2 P28
2004eb
Ebook
A relocation plan gone wrong: an account of how intervention by the government
caused the Sayisi Dene of Northern Manitoba tremendous hardships in their
community and lives. The author describes the struggle and how a new vision
and journey combined with a healing process will build a new community and a
future for the Sayisi Dene. [review by Linda Bartlett]
Good introduction, “to the point” and engaging. Includes detailed and varied
illustrations, and photographs of artifacts. Good informational read for a Social
Studies teacher in Division 2 or 3.
Proud to be Inuvialuit takes a look into the life of the people and animals of the
Inuvialuit “real people” of the Western Arctic community of Tuktoyaktuk.
Curriculum connection to Grade 2 and Canada's Dynamic Communities. Glossary
includes historical and factual information for the reader. Great addition to the
classroom or school library. Series: The Land is our Storybook.
Pokiak.
James &
Mindy
Willett
Proud to be
Inuvialuit
2010
On Order
Lane Jr.,
Phil
The Sacred
Tree
2004
I55.2
Sac Gr.
10
An excellent handbook of Native Spirituality from all over the Americas and the
world. Lots of information in this 82 page book including a Summary Unit: The
Gifts of the Four Directions. [reviewed by Linda Bartlett]
Social
Studies
8-12
Maracle,
Brian
Back on the
Rez
1997
E99 17
M37
1996
Maracle's personal journey into the heart of native identity with some historical
info on the Mohawk. "Opens a window" on a world we know little about.
[reviewed by Linda Bartlett]
Social
Studies
8-12
On Order
"Ekosi" is the Cree word for "that's all" or "end". It is an apt name for this
metissage or collage of work that paints a portrait of life as a Metis family in
Cumberland House community. Anne pays homage to her family, her community,
and her culture. Photographs help to ground the poetry, story and other textual
features.
Social
Studies
4-12
E89 N38
2008
Great compilation of FNMI leaders, both past and current. Useful for biographical
use or political discussions. A real cross section of FNMI people who have and
continue to have, an impact on Canadian history.
Social
Studies
8-12
Acco, Anne
Ekosi
Native Leaders
of Canada
Return to Subject Links
2009
14
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
Author:
Title:
Hutchinson,
Dave
Remembrances
: Metis
Veterans
1997
Harpelle,
Alix
My Children
Are My Reward
1969
Gulbrand,
Don
Sprague,
D.N. & R.P.
Frye
Edward Sheriff
Curtis: Visions
of the First
Americans
The Genealogy
of the First
Metis Nation
Ballantyne,
Evelyn
The Aboriginal
Alphabet For
Children
Horse
Capture,
George P. &
Emil Her
Many
Horses
A Song for the
Horse Nation:
Horses in
Native
American
Culture
Trembach,
Vera
Kokum and
Buddy
Boyden,
Linda
Powwow’s
Coming
Return to Subject Links
2010
1983
2001
2006
On Order
This is a collection of stories and experiences of Metis veterans during WWI,
WWII, and the Korean conflict. For a very long time their stories were not known
as well as other Aboriginal Veterans. This one of the first books that focuses on
the Metis in war.
Social
Studies
On Order
Written in diary form, both first person and secondary person. Deals with
traditional lifestyle, tools, medicines, teas, etc. From her the early 1900's until
the late 1900's. Easy reading.
Social
Studies
4-6
On Order
Edward Sheriff Curtis produced a huge collection of photographs in the early
1900‘s. While his work shows the diversity and wealth of FNMI groups at the
time, some of his methods are also critcised. He did not always document the
specific name and nation of the individuals he photographed. He is also reported
to have paid his subjects as well as sometimes arrange them in costumes or
poses that are not authentic. Despite problems, his work captures valuable
cultural images that likely would have been lost.
Social
Studies
K-12
FC
3372.9
G4 S67
(EPS) This book would be of interest to those conducting research on the Metis
of the Red River Settlement and/or tracing family history. Comprised mostly of
tables, but gives a detailed introduction. Gr. 5 SS might be able to use some of
this information, especially if they recognized names, but they would need
teacher guidance. Social Studies 20-1 and 20-2 students would be able to glean
information independently.
Social
Studies
10-12
421.1
Bal
This is a great read-aloud book that will engage students and prompt much
discussion about their own cultures, whether they are FNMI or non-FNMI. The
letters of the alphabet are presented in the context of cultural items, cultural
practices and some necessities of life. Many of the FNMI students will recognize
some of the items and practices. Some of them may willingly talk about these
items in their home and community cultural contexts. It could be used as an
extension of Social Studies lessons in K-Grade 2 classrooms at least.
Social
Studies
Pre-2
The essays, photographs and poetry work nicely together and the book could be
used for a project in Art, Language Arts, and Aboriginal Studies to show/explore
one of the ways that contact with Europeans changed Aboriginal peoples in North
America and their cultures.
Social
Studies
4-12
A teaching unit containing three storyboard stories about a young boy, a
grandmother, and Buddy, her dog. Non-native children learn a bit about the
culture of First Nations people in northern Saskatchewan. Teachers of aboriginal
children can adapt the story to suit their own First Nations community.
Social
Studies
Pre-K
Written by a former schoolteacher and author whose awards include Native
American Writers and Storytellers' Book of the Year. Frustrated by books that
reinforced aboriginal stereotypes, she use the powwow as a setting for exploring
contemporary First Nations culture.
Social
Studies
K-8
On Order
2010
793.319
7 Boy
15
Author:
Title:
York,
Vanessa
First Nations:
The Land Was
Theirs
Schuh, Mari
Look inside an
Igloo
Kay, Gloria
Johnston
and
Nahanee
Murray,
Bonnie
Pendziwol,
Jean E.
Marshall,
Ingeborg
Tucker,
Toba Pato
Spirit of
Powwow
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2007
2003
971.004
97 Yor
Gr. 9-12
Social
Studies
Pre-K
E98 P86
J63 2003
(EPS) This is a great book of photographs and accompanying essays about
powwows, including ceremonies, regalia and powwow dances themselves. All
students would gain specific insights into these traditions just as students of all
ages would be engaged.
Social
Studies
K-12
(EPS) Metis children in particular will enjoy this book's presentation and
explanation of the "story" of the Metis sash. Non-Aboriginal students will most
likely also enjoy it. What students will take away from the story is the history
and importance of the Metis sash to Metis identity, language and culture. In
addition to its use as a support resource for Social Studies, the book could also
be used in English Language Arts and Art. Teachers could use the book in many
ways, including (especially for the non-Metis students) reading and writing about
important symbols in a students’ own specific culture. Illustrates how culture is
passed down and that the importance of Metis history, culture and symbols.
Canadian.
Social
Studies
4-6
(EPS) This story is set at the turn of the last century near Fort William. In it, a
young Metis boy and his family help to prepare a feast in celebration of the
"rendezvous", or, the return of the voyageurs. Vivid and historically accurate
illustrations give an authentic picture of life at this busy Fur trading post.
Social
Studies
1-6
(EPS) This is a scholarly rendering of Beothuk history and extinction. While it is
very detailed in that it includes archeological, anthropological and cultural
information, it does not include a direct Beothuk voice. Still, the information
about their cultural practices, social organization, tools, burial practices, hunting,
fishing and food gathering is very intriguing. It would be a good desk reference
for a teacher or a good source of information for a student research project.
Canadian.
Social
Studies
10-12
(EPS) Superb photographs show images of the Onondaga people as they are
today. Each image is documented with name, clan grouping and relationship if it
includes more than one person. The sepia tones are reminiscent of the
photographs done during the last century --but these have careful
documentation. Text provides additional historical information. An excellent
reference for studying the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) confederacy.
Social
Studies
4-12
F Mur
The Red Sash
2005
(Included in
FNMI
LIterature
Kit)
Haudenosaune
e : Portraits of
the Firekeepers
of The
Onondaga
Nation
Return to Subject Links
1999
5-12
(EPS) A simplistic yet informative book that discusses how igloos are built and
used in the arctic, including large detailed photographs and a glossary.
2004
2001
Social
Studies
In
Process
Bonnie li
saennchur
fleshii di michif
Thomas and
the Metis Sash
Beothuk
This is part of a series: Flip Perspectives. Issues related to Canadian culture,
politics, history, economics etc are presented from two perspectives. In this book
issues related to the First Peoples pre-contact are juxtaposed to modern life on
reserves. Visually pleasing and interesting text. Documents the attempts by the
various levels of government to assimilate the various cultures.
In
Process
16
Author:
Prater, John
Bruchac,
Joseph
Title:
The Big Dark
Navajo Long
Walk: The Tragic
story of a Proud
People’s Forced
March from Their
Homeland
Gerber,
Carole
Arctic Dreams
Eber,
Dorothy
Harley
When the
Whalers were
up North
Dick, Karen
The Ten Most
Outstanding
Canadian
Symbols
2007
Dick, Karen
The Ten Most
Significant
Conflicts on
Canadian Soil
Beaver, Jan
The Ten Most
Significant
Crossroads in
Aboriginal
History
Kavasch, E.
Barrie
Seminole
Children and
Elders Talk
Together
Return to Subject Links
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2007
2002
On Order
970.3
Bru
(EPS) A cute story of a young Inuit boy who goes on a journey to find something
with his parents and has various adventures along the way with some animals of
the North. It is an easy read and does provide insight into the Inuit family life. A
curriculum fit for the Inuit topic in Social Studies.
(EPS) This is the story of the destruction of a Navajo camp, including crops,
homes livestock and the ho zho or harmony of the Navajo people. Only a few
escape. The others surrender even though they know that it means having to
leave their beloved homeland.
Social
Studies
1-3
Social
Studies
4-9
Social
Studies
K-3
2005
F Ger
(EPS) This story is about Neekna and Chemai, two little girls of the Okanagan
Indian band. Through their adventures we learn about the seasonal patterns of
the Okanagan people. Other themes include connection to the land (place),
identity, Aboriginal perspectives, Elders, traditional knowledge and stories. Part
of a series: We are the People.
1989
639.28
Ebe
(EPS) This is an excellent book, highly recommended by our northern reviewer.
It is filled with factual knowledge that is thoroughly researched. A good book for
all teachers to read to acquaint themselves with the history of the Inuit in
Nunavat. Part of series: McGill-Queen's Native and Northern Series.
Social
Studies
7-9
(EPS) This collection of most outstanding Canadian symbols is part of the
wonderful “The Ten Most” series. It lays out clearly why these 10 particular
symbols were chosen and encourages the reader to agree or disagree on the
basis of criteria. Questions on each page encourage engagement and thinking
about each issue rather than just learning about the events as simply "facts" of
history. Information is presented using a variety of textual features. Quick facts,
mini-reports, quotes and questions make this a comprehensive resource.
Social
Studies
4-12
2007
(EPS) This collection of significant conflicts on Canada’s soil is both interesting
and informative. Caution: note the use of the word "rebellion" when describing
the events that led up to Louis Riel's death and consider offering a broader
perspective on this incident. Series: Ten Most.
Social
Studies
4-12
2008
(EPS) This collection of significant events in Aboriginal history is a must for every
school library.
Social
Studies
1-12
1999
(EPS) Part of a series, this is an excellent book with many teachings. The format
reflects the content, as traditional cultural teachings are done using the words of
the Seminole Elders, while modern culture is done descriptively. Lots of
information is given in the text as well as in the magnificent photos. One caution,
the author consistently uses the word reservation - an American term. In Canada
we use reserve. Part of series: Children and Elders.
Social
Studies
4-8
On Order
17
Author:
Title:
Kavasch, E.
Barrie
Crow Children
and Elders Talk
Together
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
(EPS) Part of a series, this is an excellent book with many teachings. The format
reflects the content, as traditional cultural teachings are done using the words of
the Seminole Elders, while modern culture is done descriptively. Lots of
information is given in the text as well as in the magnificent photos. One caution,
the author consistently uses the word reservation - an American term. In Canada
we use reserve. Part of series: Children and Elders.
Social
Studies
4-8
(EPS) Each book in this series (Hello Canada) represents a different region in
Canada. Aboriginal peoples are respectfully portrayed as integral and
contemporary parts of the community. Maps, photos, diagrams and drawings
contribute to the visual literacy experience.
Social
Studies
4-9
Social
Studies
4-9
Social
Studies
4-6
Part of the Hello Canada series (reviewed above).
Social
Studies
4-6
Part of the Hello Canada series (reviewed above).
Social
Studies
4-6
971.23
Yat
Part of the Hello Canada series (reviewed above).
Social
Studies
4-6
1996
Part of the Hello Canada series (reviewed above).
Social
Studies
2008
(EPS) What is great about this book is that it has collected information about
different grade 4 students (including Inuit and First Nations) across our country
and displayed the information in so many different ways. An excellent social
studies resource but also good for showing multiple ways of displaying and
managing data. Uses a variety of text types like lists, anecdotes, description and
is filled with interesting information. Part of series: Literacy Place.
Social
Studies
4-6
2009
Part of a series on Canadian provinces, this book introduces the history,
geography, people and economy of the province of Manitoba. Focus on the Metis,
Mennonites and Ukrainians is clearly evident. The quality of the photographs
varies in this paperback edition. A table of contents, index, glossary, map and
“Points of Pride” make this a useful resource for introductory research in Grade 2
Social Studies (Canadian Communities - Prairie Communities) and Grade 5 Social
Studies (Canada). Part of Series: Canada Close Up. Canadian.
Social
Studies
4-6
1999
On Order
British
Columbia
2002
971.1
Bow
Barnes,
Michael
Saskatchewan
2002
1995
Barnes,
Michael
Ontario
2002
1995
Manitoba
2002
1996
2002 On
Order
Hancock,
Lyn
Nunavit
2002
Yates,
Sarah
Alberta
2002
Boweres,
Vivien
Yates,
Sarah
Quebec
Harte, Tara
Eagen,
Rachel
Kids in Canada
Manitoba:
Close up
Canada
Return to Subject Links
971.27
Eag
Part of the Hello Canada series (reviewed above).
Part of the Hello Canada series (reviewed above).
18
Author:
Title:
Gleason,
Carrie
Nova Scotia:
Close up
Canada
People of
the Land:
Legends of
the Four
Host First
Nations
People of the
Land: Legends
of the Four
Host First
Nations
Samatte,
Sandra
Wall, Julie
Brown,
Tricia
Willet,
Mindy and
Therese
and Philip
Zoe
Grandfather,
What is a
Medicine Wheel
The North:
Circumpolar
World
Children of the
Midnight Sun
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
Social
Studies
2-5
Social
Studies
4-9
2009
This delightful book is part of the Aboriginal Grandmother/Grandfather Series.
The eleven titles in this series can be purchased as a package for $120. The
stories are filled with beautiful Native illustrations which engage students to
honor and learn about Native culture.This title teaches what the Medicine Wheel
represents: seasons, directions, and races of man. It shows how to live together
in peace and harmony. Although it is written at a primary level, it can be
expanded and used at all levels. Some other titles include: Grandmother, What is
Smudging?, Grandfather, What is a Powwow?, and Grandfather, What is a Feast?
Canadian.
Social
Studies
K-6
2007
This is part of an excellent series: Flip Perspectives. Issues related to Canadian
culture, politics, history, economics etc. are presented from two perspectives.
Issues related to development and protection of the northern ecosystem are
juxtaposed with the life and livelihood of people living in the north. Visually
pleasing and interesting text. Canadian.
Social
Studies
4-6
979.8
Bro
Children of the Bay is a collection of profiles of eight Alaskan Aboriginal children,
each representing a unique and ancient culture. It is an excellent resource to
demonstrate bicultural competency and to celebrate the resistance and
adaptations of cultures that have undergone rapid change. Wonderful
photographs add to the lushness of the stories.
Social
Studies
4-12
971.9
Zoe
A must-have, along with the others in the “This Land is our Storybook” series.
Living Stories tells of the Thchq people from Gamètì, a small community north of
Yellowknife. The treaty (land claim agreement) was signed in 2003 between the
Thchq Nation, the Northwest Territories and Canada. This book tells how the
Gamètì people (one of the four groups making up the Thchq nation) intend to
keep their traditional culture alive.
Social
Studies
In
Process
Part of a series "Exploring the Canadian Arctic," this book examines the different
First Nations of Canada's North. The inclusion of maps, photographs, first-hand
accounts, web links, comparison charts, issues, a quiz, an Inuktitut language
introduction, book/web sites, glossary and index make this a useful tool for
research. Other books in this series includes: The Northern Environment,
Northern Industries, Plants and Animals of the North. Canadian. Part of a Series:
Exploring the Canadian Arctic
Social
Studies
2009
1998
Living Stories
People of the
North
Return to Subject Links
Series reviewed above. This particular title serves as a useful introductory
resource for research for Grade 2 Social Studies: Canadian Communities
(Acadians) and Grade 5 Social Studies: Canadian Geography.
2009
2010
Main
Library
E78 B9
P454
2009
On Order
A wonderful book with lots of cultural knowledge of the four Olympic host First
Nations. Passed on orally from generation to generation, the sacred legends are
now written down in this anthology. Great for Grade 5 Social Studies as classes
examine Canada's First Nations communities. Also good for Language Arts
legends.
19
2-6
Author:
Title:
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
Hudak,
Heather C.
The Metis in
Canada
2006
In
Process
This is a reference book that would be very useful when beginning to learn about
the history of one of Canada's unique cultures: The Metis. Vivid photographs
both past and present illustrate as well as inform the reader. Note however that
it does not go into any great depth and would need to be supplemented with
other materials. Part of series: Special Canadian Communities. Canadian.
Bruchac,
Joseph
Buffalo Song
2008
305.897
Bru
This book illustrates a way of life: taking care of Mother Earth and all living
things. It demonstrates the value of preservation of species and how people can
work together to make that happen.
Social
Studies
4-6
F Geo
A young Inuit boy, Tigluk, is approached by a polar bear who beckons Tigluk to
follow him. Accompanied by his grandmother, Tigluk sets out to discover what
message the bear has to give. Along the way his grandmother explains how
global warming and pollution is affecting the people and animals of the north.
Children will be entranced by the illustrations, and while the story ends
somewhat weakly, the book will be valued for its illustrations of the north as well
as its warning message. Use for Grade 2 Social Studies.
Social
Studies
K-3
Social
Studies
1-6
This is a biographical story of Crazy Horse, a Lakota man from the 1800's. This
was the time of sorrow, when Native Americans (USA) were forced off their
traditional lands. The pictures are based on the ledger book style of drawings
found in the front and back of the book. A beautiful story about courage,
resistance and symbolism.
Social
Studies
4-9
A good book for young women looking for positive female Aboriginal role models.
These engaging stories provide a glimpse into the lives of some Aboriginal
women and their accomplishments in the face of adversity. Historical
perspective: some of the women profiled date back to the 1800's. Part of series:
First Nations Series for Young Readers.
Social
Studies
4-12
Social
Studies
4-9
Social
Studies
3-12
George,
Jean
Craighead
Sockabasin
, Allen
The Last Polar
Bear
Thanks to the
Animals
Bruchac,
Joseph
Crazy Horse’s
Vision
Fournel,
Kelly
Great Women
From our First
Nations
Fradin,
Judith
Bloom and
Dennis
Brindell
Fraden
Who was
Sacagawea
Bouchard,
David
The Secret of
Your Name:
Proud to be
Metis
Return to Subject Links
2009
2005
F Soc
2000
F Bru
2007
Main
Library
E89 F69
2007
This book could be used by teachers to show students how some groups of
people migrate to different homes during different seasons. It also could be used
to show different northern animals. Features include additional information at the
back about the Pasama Quoddy tribe (New Brunswick), a website and phonetic
spelling for some animal names in the traditional language.
2002
970.3
Fra
This book describes the relationships between Aboriginal people and early
settlers in American history. It is a great resource for young people to
understand how Aboriginal people helped welcome other peoples to the lands.
The sketches on each page add many historical details. There are different
textual features in the book such as “report and recount” that could be used as
part of teaching writing traits to Division 2. Part of series: Who Was?
2010
811.6
Bou
David Bouchard shares the collective story of the Metis people, who are the only
nation of "mixed blood". In this wonderfully illustrated story the reader gets a
glimpse into the situations that cost many people to be denied their ancestry,
land, culture and pride. A CD accompanies the book.
Social
Studies
4-6
20
Author:
Title:
Alexander,
Cherry
Inuit
Katz, Susan
and Carla
Messinger
When the
Shadbush
Blooms
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
This book contains 18 chapters describing both the ancient and modern lifestyles
of today's Inuit. It includes history, survival skills, housing, clothing, education,
family life, customs, food and the arts. Inuit life is told through beautiful
photographs, pictures and illustrations. It is an easy read with large captions,
short texts and bolded words. A glossary, index and web sites are included.
Curriculum ties include Grade 2 and 7. Part of the Flashback History series which
include Plains Indians, Greeks, Prehistorical People and Amazonian Indians.
Social
Studies
4-6
F Mes
This book takes the reader through a cycle of seasons from the Lenape First
Nations perspective. What makes it extraordinary are the side by side pictures
that compare contemporary life with that of the life over a hundred years ago.
Both print and picture resonate with family life and the importance of place.
Social
Studies
2-6
Each of the books in this series is a colourful non-fiction book that contains a
great deal of information on a different part of Canada. Aboriginal peoples are
respectfully portrayed as integral and contemporary parts of the community.
Maps, photo's, diagrams and drawings contribute to the visual literacy
experience. Part of series: Hello Canada.
Social
Studies
2-6
Social
Studies
2-6
In
Process
2007
Thompson,
Alexa
Nova Scotia
2002
971.6
Tho
Daitch,
Richard
Northwest
Territories
2002
1995
Hancock
Lyn
Yukon
2002
1996
(Reviewed Above)
Social
Studies
3-7
F Jam
A delightful story of a young girl and her father and their search for the mother
of a visiting fawn. Each time they spot a new animal Zoe wonders if that is the
mother they are looking for. After searching over a small hill, in the tall grass and
at a creek they return home to a surprise. The repetitive text and textured,
vibrant illustrations make this gentle book a great addition to a young reader's
collection. Animal names featured in both English and Okanagan Syilx.
Social
Studies
Pre-K-3
Social
Studies
2-6
Social
Studies
K-9
Jameson,
Catherine
Preszler,
June
Ancona,
George
Zoe and the
Fawn
Tepees
Powwow
Return to Subject Links
2006
2005
1993
690.8
Pre
394.26
Ana
(Reviewed Above)
A reference book with simple information about tepee living a century ago. There
are some wonderful historical photographs on one side of the page, however
there does not appear to be any attempt to determine the origins of the
photographs, nor who is in the photographs. This resource would be useful as a
starting point for discussion on ethical use of second hand materials.
Vivid photographs and thoughtful text illustrate some of the customs behind the
powwow. The rich text helps draw out awareness and understanding of the
different dances and regalia of this celebration. The book includes brief historical
information and depicts modern aboriginal life in a positive and respectful
manner.
21
Author:
Title:
Plain,
Ferguson
Eagle Feather
Andrews, Jan
Very Last First
Time
Armstrong,
Jennifer
Paulsen, Gary
Neekna and
Chemai
Woods Runner
The sacred tree
(kit)
Klobuchar,
Lisa
Reynolds,
Margaret
Trottier,
Maxine
The history and
activities of the
Native Americans
Dene arts and
crafts
Native crafts:
inspired by North
America's first
peoples
Native
Americans:
people of the
plains
Chillin' out in the
Arctic: Iqluit,
Nunavut
(DVD)
Powwow: Images
Along the Red
Marra, Ben
Road
Those Who
Know: Profiles of
Meili, Dianne
Alberta’s Native
Elders
Baylor Byrd
When Clay Sings
Return to Subject Links
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
Now that his Mishoomis, his grandfather, is gone, a young man remembers walking
with him in the bush and listening to stories of the old days; he remembers being Social
2010
F Pla
3-6
honored with an eagle feather at the powwow and not knowing what he had done Studies
to deserve this honor. Fictional story celebrating Ojibway traditions. Canadian.
In search of mussels while the tide is out, an Inuit girl walks alone beneath the ice
of the frozen ocean, knowing she will never do it-for the first time-again. Pointillist Social
1985
F And
2-4
paintings in purple and yellow emphasize the beauty of her undersea adventure,
Studies
the traditional Inuit practice of lowering themselves beneath the ice. Ages 5-8.
Story of two young girls growing up in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia
398.2089 before the arrival of Europeans. Their story tells the reader about how their people Social
2008
K-4
Kou v. 4 lived following the cycle of nature. Title selected in the 2009 First Nations Libraries Studies
Community Reads program.
(EPS) Alternating fiction with historical segments, Paulsen captures the realism of
the frontier through strong characterization. As a historical fiction, readers will
Social
2010
F Pau
learn about life in the 1770s, the American Revolution, and interaction with the
6-9
Studies
Iroquois people. Although a war story with violence and sadness, it does offer
positive characters.
1988 970.1 Sac Accompanies The Sacred Tree book (Native Spirituality handbook). Includes
Social
multiple copies, support material such as conflict resolution and addictions
8-12
Studies
information, and related activities such as becoming an elder.
2006 On order
Included in this book are timelines, maps, exciting photographs, one recipe, and
Social
three craft activities. Includes age appropriate instructions, tips for teachers, and
4Studies
thought provoking questions.
1977 745.5 Rey Most useful as a source of information on Dene traditions and practices, complete
Social
with simple illustrations. The author worked with Dene peoples to document
4-8
Studies
traditional crafts. Produced by the Saskatchewan Education Department.
2000 745.5 Tro Trottier treats her subject matter with great respect, and clearly establishes that
the 16 crafts are "inspired" by the first peoples and are not t"authentic"
Social
4-8
reproductions. Each craft item is initially introduced by a paragraph which
Studies
illuminates its original role or purpose in the culture.
1998 970.1 Nat An original film that aims to illustrate the life of Plains Peoples. The day-to-day life
of a typical Sioux family is told through the narrative voice of Wi-ya-ka-luta (Red
Social
Feather), a 12 year-old boy. Students will learn how the Sioux hunted, cooked,
3-6
Studies
made tools, weapons, and clothing. Also discussed are the Sioux concepts of
religion, spirits and the natural world.
2002 In Process An episode of Canadian Geographic Kids. The feature kids join two Inuit girls and
participate in many local activities, including a caribou stew feast, a throat singing Social
2-4
lesson, and an exploration of the tundra. A good way to show the modern nature Studies
of today’s Arctic while celebrating traditions.
Offers a first-had look at the pow wow and helps readers gain an appreciation for
Social
1996 In Process
the role it plays celebrating cultural heritage. Candid shots capture the spirit of the
K-12
Studies
pow wow for all ages.
Main
The reader will experience first-hand the personality, characteristics, and
Aboriginal
Library sometimes remote environment of these healers, visionaries, storytellers, and
Studies,
1991
E78 A 34 spiritualists through Dianne Meili’s faithful re-telling of the interviews she conducted Social
M45 1991 with each during the two years she spent travelling throughout Alberta. 272 p.
Studies
The daily life and customs of prehistoric southwest Native American tribes are
Social
738 Bay
1-3
retraced from the designs on the remains of their pottery. Caldecott Honor 1973.
Studies, Art
22
Author:
Title:
Sneve,
Virgina
Driving
Hawk
Enduring
Wisdom:
Saying from
Native
Americans
Hungry Wolf, Pow-wow:
Adolf
dancer's and
crafter's
handbook
Waboose,
Jan
Bourdeau
Bouchard,
David
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2003
1999
970.004
97 End
793.3197
Hun
This book collects quotes from leaders of various North American First Nations.
They focus on Mother Earth, The People, War and Peace and Spirit Life. Author's
notes provide additional context for the sayings, while end notes provide the
sources. Each quote is beautifully illustrated.
Photographs celebrating over 100 years of Native American Pow-wow, as well as
detailed projects showing the significance and traditions of specific objects.
Recommended by Canadian Bookseller Good Medicine Books.
Social
Studies/
Art
4-12
Social
Studies/ Art
4-8
Women’s
Traditional
Dance
2009
Part of the Native Reflections Powwow series, this book explains all about the
women’s traditional Dance. It uses simple text and photographs. Part of series:
Native Reflections Powwow Series.
Social
Studies/
Dance
K-6
Men’s
Traditional
Dance
2009
Part of series: Native Reflections Powwow Series. Series reviewed above.
Social
Studies/
Dance
K-6
Hoop Dance
2009
Part of series: Native Reflections Powwow Series. Series reviewed above.
Social
Studies/
Dance
K-6
Jungle Dress
Dance
2009
Part of series: Native Reflections Powwow Series. Series reviewed above.
Social
Studies/
Dance
K-6
Grass Dance
2009
Part of series: Native Reflections Powwow Series. Series reviewed above.
Social
Studies/
Dance
K-6
Fancy Shawl
Dance
2009
Part of series: Native Reflections Powwow Series. Series reviewed above.
Social
Studies/
Dance
K-6
Men’s Fancy
Dance
2009
Part of series: Native Reflections Powwow Series. Series reviewed above.
Social
Studies/
Dance
K-6
1997
F Wab
In this picture book, the author uses her knowledge as an Ojibway woman to tell
a series of three linked stories, as a grandfather and his grandson spend the day
together. The reader learns the importance of living in harmony with nature and
the wisdom of the Elders. The illustrations depict the beauty of nature and the
northern lakes, mountains and forests with a softness and caring.
Social
Studies
1-6
2003
398.208
9 Bou
Social
Studies/
Language
Arts
4-9
Morning on the
Lake
Qu'Appelle
Return to Subject Links
(EPS) This is a retelling of a famous love story of a young Cree man who leaves
his betrothed behind as he goes to fight against the Blackfeet. In his absence
she falls ill and dies of a broken heart. You can still hear the young man
searching for his lost love today, calling out "Qui Appelle?
23
Author:
Trottier,
Maxine
Title:
Death of My
Country
Meili,
Dianne
Helping
Grandma
Samatte,
Sandra
Brown Eagle,
Brown Eagle
What do you
See?
Wallace,
Mary
Meyer,
Christopher
Meyer,
Christopher
Lafonta,
Isabelle
Inuksuk
Journey
Adventures of
Rabbit and
Bear Paws: The
Voyageurs
Adventures of
Rabbit and
Bear Paws:
True Hearts
Mikissuk’s
Secret
Return to Subject Links
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
(EPS) This is a fictional diary of a young Abenaki girl who really did live during
the war of the plains of Abraham. It provides many historical details of daily life
at this time, as well as details of the Abenaki First Nations people. Additional
features include some wonderful historical diagrams, maps and photographs,
timelines and some author information. Part of series: Dear Canada
Social
Studies/
Language
Arts
4-6
2006
Photographs illustrate traditional feasts in modern First Nations communities in
this welcome addition to the Literacy Place Series. Excellent for guided reading,
this nonfiction story will be a great asset for division one social studies units.
Smiles, bright colours and strong family ties weave together the story of how
two cousins help their grandmother prepare salmon, potatoes, bread and berries
for a traditional Mic Mac feast. Part of series: Literacy Place
Social
Studies/
Language
Arts
K-3
2009
This adorable picture book includes stories about real people and real events in
the lives of Canada's Native people of long ago. It is a cultural teaching! It is
patterned after the picture book "Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?"
The illustrations are bold, colourful, large and very appealing. It's a great book
for teaching colours. Many age groups will be attracted. Canadian.
Social
Studies/
Language
Arts
K-3
917.19
Wal
This book is a great resource for teaching different text types or skills such as
description or sequencing. The author's diary of her journey to the Arctic is filled
with details of Arctic life and Inuit culture. It would make a great read-aloud
book!
Social
Studies/
Language
Arts
4-9
F Sol
This is part of the Rabbit and Bear Paws graphic novel series. It is set in 1750's
colonized North America and features the comical adventures of two brothers.
The authors use traditional teachings from The Seven Grandfathers and a
whopping dose of humour to create these books that are sure to be a hit. In the
words of one eleven year-old reviewer "They are all really funny. It is almost
exactly like Asterix. The spirit power is a hilarious invention. The illustrations
actually look 3-D. Too bad they are so short!" Part of series: Adventures of
Rabbit and Bear Paws.
Social
Studies/
Language
Arts
2-9
F Sol
Series is reviewed above.
Social
Studies/
Language
Arts
4-9
F Laf
Mikissuk badly wants to go hunting with her brother. Despite her pleas, Sorqaq
refuses to take Mikissuk, saying she is too little. Mikissuk shows that she is much
more than she appears as she devises a way to change Sorqaq's mind. At the
end of the book are four pages with information on the land, animals and people
of Nunavut.
Social
Studies/
Language
Arts
K-6
2007
2008
2008
2008
2006
F Tro
24
Author:
Cavell,
Edward
Maher,
Ramona
Loyie, Larry
Hallendy,
Norman
Title:
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
(EPS) This is a very appealing, richly detailed collection of archival photographs
featuring FNMI people from across Canada. The photographs were chosen from
various museum and archive collections. The photographs can be used as writing
or discussion prompts in Social Studies and English Language Arts, as well as in
Aboriginal Studies.
Social
Studies/
Language
Arts/
Aboriginal
Studies
K-9
F Mah
A wonderful tender tale about a young Navajo girl's month to month life. Each
month is given the traditional Navajo name as explained in the additional notes
at the back. This book has won several awards. The spectacular illustrations add
a great deal of authenticity to this story.
Social
Studies/
Language
Arts/Art
1-6
1991
970.412
3 Loy
A gentle, autobiographical account beginning with the family’s idyllic summer
among the animals: fishing, hunting, collecting berries and enjoying their
summer camp by the river. At the close of the summer Lawrence, his brothers
and sister are told they must go away to school. It is the saddest day of his life.
An epilogue concludes the story with historical details and photos of the family
during their time at residential school. Detailed watercolour illustrations help
depict the traditional way of life this young boy once enjoyed. An excellent book
for junior/senior high students with below grade literacy skills. Also a great
resource in a unit on aboriginal culture and history.
Social
Studies/
Language
Arts/Art
4-12
Islands in the
Salish Sea: A
Community
Atlas
2005
Main
Library’s
Ebook
collection
.
(EPS) This is a beautiful Community Atlas that reflects the history of the Coast
Salish region. It includes topography, geography, human history, social,
economic and ecological issues. It could be used in Social Studies, Science,
Aboriginal Studies, etc. The communities worked together with a common
purpose and this is reflected throughout the resource. The FNMI content and
perspectives are included respectfully, appropriately, and authentically. Canadian.
Social
Studies/
Science
10-12
From Time
Immemorial
2006
A very handy and helpful teacher resource about the peoples of the northwest
coast. Written and illustrated by members of the two different communities
represented in the book. Highly recommended.
Social
Studies/
Art
Pre-K
Nk’Mip
Chronicles: Art
from the
Inkameep Day
School
2005
704.039
7 Oso
A little-known story about the teacher, Mr. Anthony Walsh, who encouraged the
children of the Okanagan to draw their lives and share their drawings with the
world. This was done between 1931-1942, a time when Aboriginal student voices
were often silenced. The text is illustrated with the work of the children as well
as photographs of the artists as children. Each photograph is carefully labelled.
In the words of Chief Clarence Louie, "Walsh challenged the non-native
community to look beyond the social norms of the period and celebrate a unique
culture through the pursuit of excellence in art and drama”.
Social
Studies/
Art
Pre-K-6
Tukiliit
2009
E99 E7
H228
Spectacular photographs and information about Inuksuit, their significance and
meaning to the Inuit. Wonderful reference book and addition to the classroom or
school library.
Social
Studies/
Art
1-12
Classic Images
of Canada's
First Nations
1850-1920
Alice Yazzie’s
Year
As Long as the
Rivers Flow
Return to Subject Links
Main
Library
E78 C2
C394
2009
2003
25
Author:
Hallendy,
Norman
Title:
Inuksuit, Silent
Messengers of
the Arctic
Identity by
Design
McLerran,
Alice B.
Weibe,
Rudy
Richardson,
Nan
Ulmer, Mike
The Ghost
Dance
Hidden Buffalo
Tribal Alphabet
Gift of the
Inukshuk
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2000
A Name for a
Metis
Return to Subject Links
Social
Studies/
Art
1-12
(EPS) This is a spectacular reference book for those interested in the traditional
ways of adorning Aboriginal dresses. Beautiful coloured photographs show
garments, past and present, while the text explains how many of them were
made. Short stories about some of the modern clothes are also included. Some
black and white historical photos are also included so that the dresses are seen
in context.
Social
Studies/
Art
Pre-12
2007
746.9
Ide
1995
In
Process
(EPS) This lyrical text tells of the ghost dance origins and how it is called forth in
different generations. Wonderful illustrations include collage, paintings and a
technique called " assemblage". Excellent resource for looking at historical
traditions, for learning about the demise of the buffalo and for the connections
between past, present and future.
Social
Studies/
Art
K-3
F Wie
(EPS) Sky Running and his people are hungry. The buffalo are hidden and they
become desperate for food. One night Sky Running has a dream that reveals to
him where the great herds of buffalo have gone. Lyrical text together with
stunning illustrations create a memorable story. Aside from the rich details about
life in the past, one learns about the importance of values such as family,
generosity, hope and thankfulness.
Social
Studies/
Art
4-6
In
Process
A great A to Z book which incorporates many of the world's indigenous tribes.
Beautifully supported by vibrant illustrations and information on different tribes.
Written in consultation with anthropologists and activists. A wonderful addition to
any classroom library as an introduction to globalization. Contains a detailed
glossary of tribes.
Social
Studies/
Art
1-8
Social
Studies/Art
2-6
2003
2008
2004
TOPONA (game): 1996
the original
people of North
America
Delaronde,
Deborah L.
305.897
1 Hal
Inuksuit are constructed from stones that come from the land, built on the land,
telling stories of the land, animals and people of the Arctic. Norman Hallendy has
travelled in the Arctic gaining knowledge from the Elders and photographing
Inuksuit for 40 years. This comprehensive book about Inuksuit and the Arctic
contains personal stories, information and stunning photographs. Great reference
book and addition to the school library.
1999
F Ulm
970.1 Top
F Del
In this original pourquoi tale, Ulmer imagines the origins of the Inuksuk through
the story of a young Inuit who makes towers of rocks that resemble friendly
figures. The story should not be presented as a legend, but is an engaging
introduction to Arctic Culture. The thickly brushed acrylic paintings beautifully
capture the blue Arctic light, the wide, sweeping snowscapes, and the deep
relationship between humans and animals in the barren land.
A board game about the The Original People Of North America. Designed by First
Nations mostly of Chipewyan and Saulteaux people, with strong developmental
influence from people with Cree and Slavey backgrounds. TOPONA is intended to
give a better understanding about what North America's first people were and are
all about.
In this story, a young boy connects with each of his family members to find out
their opinion on which name he should choose. A great deal of gentle teasing
follows.
Social
Studies/
Health
Social
Studies/
Language
Arts
26
K-6
Author:
Title:
Delaronde,
Debo
Flour Sack
Friends
SaintPierre,
Annette
The Metis
Princess
Kusugak,
Michael
Meyer,
Christopher
My Arctic 1,2,3
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2003
2004
1996
Adventures of
Rabbit and Bear
2008
Paws: The Sugar
Bush
Return to Subject Links
F Del
513.211
Kus
F Sol
A wonderful look at small town Saskatchewan in the 1940's. With great attention
to detail, Deborah Delaronde introduces a young girl who is determined to get
herself a doll. "With a little frog, a little work and a little help from family and
friends" she does just that.
Social
Studies/
Language
Arts
1-6
(EPS) This traditional love story will hold a reader’s interest. Its focus on family
life serves as an excellent vehicle to accurately portray Metis life in Canada and
would appeal to older students.
Social
Studies/
Language
Arts
4-6
An Inuit storyteller and a Czechoslovakian artist share their knowledge and love of
the Arctic by combining numbers (1 through 10, 20, 100, and 1,000,000) and
simple descriptions of Arctic animals. Attractive, vibrant watercolours and a simple
introduction to food chains and arctic life.
Social/Math,
Science
K-3
Series reviewed above.
4-9
27
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
First Nations Materials Across the Curriculum LANGUAGE ARTS
Author:
Cutting,
Robert &
David
Bouchard
Cutting,
Robert &
David
Bouchard
Cutting,
Robert &
David
Bouchard
Bushey,
Jeanne
O’Neill,
Paul
Title:
Turtle Island
Series Grade
3
Turtle Island
Series Grade
2
Turtle Island
Series Grade
1
A Sled Dog for
Moshi
How Dog
Became a
Friend
Return to Subject Links
Date:
Collection
Availability:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
2011
(EPS) An outstanding must-have collection for schools and libraries!
Thoughtfully written, the series includes traditional, modern and informational
stories aimed to develop awareness, respect and understanding of the
Aboriginal cultures. Beautiful illustrations, photographs and invaluable
"Teachings from Turtle Island" are included in the back of the book. Library and
classroom packs, a teacher’s guide and CD- Rom are available. Ten titles in
Grade 3 leveled reader series including: •Turtle Island •Koluskap and the Baby
•Raven and the Whale •The Hunt •Download! •Drummer Boy •Game On!
•Helping Hands •Where Do You Live? •Outstanding!
Language
Arts
K-3
2011
(EPS) An outstanding must-collection for schools and libraries! Thoughtfully
written, the series includes traditional, modern and informational stories aimed
to develop awareness, respect and understanding of the Aboriginal cultures.
Beautiful illustrations, photographs and invaluable "Teachings from Turtle
Island" are included in the back of the book. Library and classroom packs, a
teacher’s guide and a CD- Rom are available. Ten titles in Grade 2 leveled
reader series include: •Buffalo Learns Respect •Night and Day •The Little Bear
•Just Joking! •Help! •Anisha’s Dance •The Sash •Time to Celebrate! •Around
the World •Exploring Art
Language
Arts
K-3
2011
(EPS) An outstanding must-have collection for schools and libraries!
Thoughtfully written, the series includes traditional, modern and informational
stories aimed to develop awareness, respect and understanding of the
Aboriginal cultures. Beautiful illustrations, photographs and invaluable
"Teachings from Turtle Island" are included in the back of the book. Library and
classroom packs, a teacher’s guide and a CD- Rom are available. Ten titles in
Grade 1 levelled reader series include: •The Beaver and the Porcupine •The
Hummingbird •Fawn Gets Its Spots •Bear Listens •Buniq’s Boots •Coyote’s Trick
•The New Girl •What Do You Do? •Around Town
Language
Arts
K-3
1994
F Bus
(EPS) Moshi, a young Inuit girl longs to own a pet dog that can play and do
tricks like her friend Jessica’s. Nuna, the family’s lead sled dog is pregnant and
missing. On a spring day in May the girls explore Iqaluit but suddenly get
caught in a blizzard and must find shelter. Will Moshi, Jessica and Nuna be
found?
Language
Arts
1-4
398.0209
Arctic tale of two children and their frightening experience: being captured and
left to starve by the Old Hag of the Wilderness because they wandered too far
from home. Teaches about geography, landscape, culture and human/animal
connection. The story illustrates how dog understands that reciprocal
relationship and saves the children, thus becoming a beloved pet of humans.
Language is a little advanced but can be a learning tool. Illustrations are
beautiful and appealing.
Language
Arts
K-6
2007
28
Author:
Title:
MarceauChenkie,
Brittany
Naya the Inuit
Cinderella
School
District No.
50
B is for
Basketball
Forn,
Christine &
Trish
Holland
Ocean’s Child
Bushey,
Joanne
Orphans in
the Sky
Kaslik, Ibi
Wilson, Eric
Polak,
Monique
Tales From
the Tundra: A
Collection of
Inuit Stories
The Inuk
Mountie
Adventure
The Middle of
Everywhere
Return to Subject Links
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
1999
2010
2009
On Order
This is a retelling of the Cinderella story written by the author when she was ten
years old. Naya is an Inuit girl who chooses to live with her grandfather and live
a traditional Inuit life instead of living in town with her family. She helps her
grandfather hunt caribou, prepare the hide and do her own sewing and
beadwork for her traditional amauti to wear to the Igloolik Community Feast.
Although complications arise, Naya does get to attend the feast and as in all
Cinderella stories, meets a handsome Inuit hunter.
Language
Arts
K-2
On Order
The official book of the 2011 All Native Basketball Tournament that has been
held in Prince Rupert British Columbia for over 50 years. A unique alphabet
book that that celebrates basketball written by the Students and Teachers of
School District No. 50 Haida Gwaii.
Language
Arts/
Physical
Education
K-3
On Order
Written as a gentle poem. A mother and child take a canoe trip and bid
goodnight to many animals of the ocean and skies of the Alaskan Beaufort
seacoast. This book has beautiful illustrations by David Diaz, who has always
lived near the ocean. [review by Cheryl Drewicki, April 2011]
Language
Arts
Pre-K
F Bus
Orphaned after the death of their parents a bother and sister must decide
where they should live. This is a mythological journey of how thunder and
lightening came to be. Good read aloud and addition to the classroom library.
Language
Arts
2-6
The first story, a charming trickster tale from the Qikiqtani region, relates how a
siksik (ground squirrel) manages to escape the clutches of an owl by pandering
to the owl’s ego and love of dance. Lively, manga-like illustrations by Anthony
Brennan add colour and a sense of whimsy to the tales. Unfortunately, there are
no source notes specific to the tales. This is a concern as neither the author not
the illustrator is from the area. As collections of Inuit spiritual stories for young
readers are not in abundance, Tales from the Tundra is recommended for
Grades 2-6.
Language
Arts
3-6
A novel for young readers laden with adventure, intrigue, and mystery set in
the Canadian Arctic. The book is set on the political premise of a borderless
Canada joining the United States and how a teenage boy stops the union.
Language
Arts
5-7
This story of a 15-year old boy moving from Montreal to Nunavik to live with his
father provides a very informative but easy to understand and compelling look
at modern Inuit life. Told from Noah's perspective, the reader learns about
storytelling (including the story of Kajataijug), sled-dogs, hunting, winter
camping, catching Arctic Char, even shopping at the Northern Store. The reader
also learns some of the history of Nunavik, such as the RCMP killing of the sled
dogs, residential schools, and why the town looks so "new". By the end, both
Noah and the reader have a much better understanding of and respect for this
place that isn't in the "middle of nowhere", but rather of everywhere. I finished
the book wishing there was more to read. Recommended novel study. [review
by Chandra Hildebrand]
Language
Arts
7-10
2010
1995
2009
On Order
F Pol
29
Author:
Title:
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
Stellings,
Caroline
The Contest
2009
Junyk,
Myrna
Louis Reil and
the Red River
Colony
Reader’s
Theatre
2010
Florence,
Melanie
Jordin Tootoo
2010
On Order
Bruchac,
James
Raccoon’s Last
Race
2004
398.2089
Bru
PaludPelletier,
Noelie
Louis, Son of
the Prairies
1990
On Order
Saracuse,
Tara
Island Kids
Jones, Guy
W. & Sally
Moomaw
Lessons From
Turtle Island
Charles,
Veronika M.
Maiden of The
Mist: A
Legend of
Niagara Falls
Return to Subject Links
Rosy is a 12-year-old girl who is half-Mohawk, living in Hamilton, ON who is
obsessed with Anne of Green Gables. She is a strong and determined character.
With a positive attitude, hard work, loving family and supportive community,
she overcomes the problems before her, from asthma to near-poverty to
racism. The book assumes at least some knowledge of "Anne of Green Gables",
and would perhaps be more enjoyed by readers who are at least somewhat
familiar with many of the references.
Language
Arts
4-8
Language
Arts
4-6
A candid biography of Jordin Kudluk "Thunder" Tootoo, from the loss of his
brother, strength of family and determination, to the success of being the first
Inuk player in the National Hockey League.
Language
Arts
7-9
This humorous story is another addition to a collection of stories explaining how
animals developed certain characteristics. In this case long legged, fast running
Raccoon is transformed into the short-legged waddling raccoon we know today.
The illustrations are perfect for this cautionary tale.
Language
Arts
Pre-3
Language
Arts
4-6
Language
Arts
2-9
2002
This is an excellent resource for teachers in early learning to grade three. While it
is American, the ideas and suggestions are easily applicable to the Canadian
context. Five themes provide the structure of the book: children, homes, families,
community, and the environment. Each theme suggests books, activities and ways
of ensuring that Aboriginal culture is included across the curriculum and
throughout the year.
Language
Arts
Pre-3
2001
An Iroquois fairy tale with the heroine being shown as strong and brave,
opposite to heroines in other fairy tales where they are presented as weak and
passive with few, if any, strengths. In this "fairy tale" there is a rich context for
discussion about fairy tales in different cultures. This could be an effective
springboard in classrooms where there are students from different cultures from
different parts of the world. Caution: The writer is non-FNMI, but she did
consult with Iroquois experts as acknowledged in the front of the book.
Language
Arts
4-5
2010
On Order
(EPS) Louis Riel and the rebellion of 1867 in the format of Readers' Theatre.
Series: Celebrate Canada Through Readers’ Theatre. Canadian
On Order
On Order
A fictional account of Louis Riel’s childhood. It is rich with detail and includes
maps about the buffalo hunt and the travels of the Metis.
This is a wonderful book to use as a read aloud or for guided reading. The firsttime author, Tara Saracuse, has woven together a collection of short stories that
spans time as well as the border between fact and fiction. It is packed with
interesting information and with "real" kid stories. Courageous Kids Series.
30
Author:
Ruurs Mar
griet
Ducharme,
Char
Bastedo ,
Jamie
Rivera,
Raquel
Lerangis,
Peter
Taylor,
Beau
Hughes,
Sarah
Title:
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
(EPS) A delightful rhyming poem, as a child describes life in the north with
detailed illustrations that capture the imagination. A teacher’s shared reading
plan booklet, a big book and CD version also form part of the Grade 3 package.
Part of series: Literacy Place
Language
Arts
1-3
F Duc
(EPS) Cassie, a young Metis girl learns to believe in herself and reach her full
potential from her grandmother and the giant oak tree. A great read aloud or
addition to the classroom library. Focus is on growing up and building
confidence.
Language
Arts
1-3
F Bas
(EPS) Ashley Anowiak is a young teenage girl who struggles to understand the
complexity of her family, connection to her culture, and impacts of global
warming on her small northern community. The plot is at times difficult to follow
with some mature content and subject matter. A companion teacher’s guide and
novel study can be found on-line at www.onthinince.ca
Language
Arts
9-12
F Riv
(EPS) The story of Aneze, a young Dene girl left for dead and lone survivor of
her people after a raid on her village. Orphaned and on her own, she renames
herself Ahwak as she comes to terms with loss and the harsh realities of
survival in the north. The depiction of the raid on Aneze’s village is graphic, and
therefore best suited for Grades 9 -12. Please note that the story takes place
some 300 years ago and the author admits to taking liberties with the history,
culture, people and landscape to engage today’s reader.
Language
Arts
9-12
On Order
(EPS) A heartfelt story of Minik, his father and four others who were taken from
their home in Greenland to New York city in 1897. Famed explorer Robert Peary
took them to the American Museum of Natural History as living Eskimo exhibits.
It is a compelling, engaging story of loss, deception, exploration and survival
based on historical facts from the book “Give Me My Father's Body: The Life of
Minik, the New York Eskimo” by Kenn Harper.
Language
Arts
5-10
(EPS) Students will be attracted to the colorful illustrations in this Ojibwa tale
retold by Beau Taylor. The simple vocabulary will engage struggling readers as
will the story. Appropriate for Balanced Literacy. Also Available in the Grade 2
Collections Language Arts Series (v.5. Collections 2 theme library, early (green)
level).
Language
Arts
1-3
(EPS) This book is delightful. Grade 2 students will be entertained and engaged.
A big book version and a cd version form part of the package. A comprehensive
Teaching Plan booklet gives several ideas and tips for using the package as part
of a shared reading plan for Grade 2. In naming his 10 best things, the little boy
will give students an introduction to some of Canada's special characteristics,
including landscapes, water, plants, animals and the diversity of Canada's
peoples. Part of series: Literacy Place for the Early Years.
Language
Arts
1-3
I Live in the
North
Granny
Shoongish
and the Giant
Oak Tree
On Thin Ice
Orphan Ahwak
Smiler’s
Bones
The Five
Moons of
Winter
The Ten Best
Things About
Canada
Return to Subject Links
2005
2006
2007
2007
1996
31
Author:
Olsen,
Sylvia
Title:
A different
game
Trickster:
Native
American
Tales, A
graphic
collection
Guest,
Jacqueline
Wild Ride
Plain ,
Ferguson
Amikoonse
Bruchac,
Joseph
Between the
Earth and
Sky: Legends
of Native
American
Sacred Places
Caduto,
Michael J.
and Joseph
Bruchac
The Native
Stories from
Keepers of the
Earth
Ortiz,
Simon J.
The Good
Rainbow Road
Return to Subject Links
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2010
2010
2005
1993
(EPS) This is a sequel to Murphy and the Mousetrap and will delight readers
who want to know how the soccer champions fared in the move to a new
school. When tryouts begin, trouble starts as Albert, their star player, begins
acting like a jerk.
Language
Arts
4-6
398.2089
Tri
(EPS) Over 30 storytellers and cartoonists have contributed to this original and
provocative collection of traditional trickster tales. Each story is unique as they
are drawn from a variety Aboriginal people across North America. Contributors
include well-known author Joseph Bruchac, Pueblo storyteller Eldrena Douma,
cartoonist and Smithsonian Institution employee Evan Keeling.
Language
Arts
6-12
On Order
(EPS) January and her family have taken in an RCMP summer student as a
border. Willow Whitecloud become both a friend and a spiritual guide, who helps
January connect with her Native heritage. But January is shocked when a
number of clues suggest Willow is involved in illegal activity that threatens the
natural world she has taught January to respect.
Language
Arts
9-12
(EPS) Amikoonse, Little Beaver, has been kept by a boy as a house pet. He
decides to go into the woods alone. He meets a wise owl who helps him find a
beaver lodge. He knows when he gets there that he is home. While keeping a
beaver as a pet is a fanciful idea, children in K-1 will be drawn to the gentle
telling of the story and the beautiful illustrations. It could be used in Social
Studies and English Language Arts. Canadian.
Language
Arts
K-3
Language
Arts
4-6
F Ols
F Pla
1996
398.2089
Bru
(EPS) This is an excellent source of sacred stories, reflective of the East, North,
South, West, Earth, Sky and our internal direction. It focuses on living well and
in balance. A number of Nation’s stories are included as is a map and
pronunciation guide for terms used in the retelling of these stories. It could be a
source of classroom discussions in English Language Arts as well as in Social
Studies. The stories are retold with great respect.
1991
398.2089
Cad
Main:
E98 F6
B78 1991
(EPS) The stories in this collection represent several Aboriginal Groups in North
America including Inuit, Micmac, Maliseet, Mohawk and Zuni. The activities are
designed to show students the interconnectedness of all life and introduce
environmental issues facing North America (Goodminds.com).
Language
Arts
4-12
On Order
(EPS) This is an excellent story. Ortiz has used elements common to many
indigenous stories and cultures. It also evokes reminders of how powerful
language, memory and imagery are. In the story, two brothers are sent on a
mission to the home of the Shiwana, the Rain and Snow Spirits, to ask them to
bring home the gift of water. The brothers have many challenges to overcome.
The last challenge is the hardest. This is a native American tale told in Keres
(Language used in a Pueblo in the American South West) and English. A
Spanish translation is provided at the back of the book.
Language
Arts
7-9
2004
32
Author:
Anderson,
Grant S.
Loewen,
Iris
Title:
Do Unto
Otters: and
other bedtime
Thymes
My Kokum
Called Today
McLellan,
Joe
Nanabosho
and the
Woodpecker
Adams,
Lorraine
The Journey:
North
American
Indigenous
Games
Dumont,
Delia
Dumont,
Delia
Dumont,
Delia
Eagle’s Cry
Adventure on
Gull Island
Mountain
Biking
Adventure
Return to Subject Links
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2005
On Order
(EPS) This is a collection of rhymes that will certainly appeal to those students
who love to laugh about gas, body odor, and other human frailties! Canadian
Language
Arts
K-6
Language
Arts
Pre-3
1993
F Loe
(EPS) When her Kokum calls from her reserve, a young Cree girl is excited to
find out about an upcoming round dance. Soon the girl and her mother are in
the car and on their way back to their traditional lands. The gentle, lyrical text
convey the deep love and respect the girl has for her grandmother and her Cree
culture. This book has strong bicultural competency messages, and reinforces
for today's Aboriginal people the strength of walking in two worlds.
1995
On Order
(EPS) Part of the Nanabosho series, in this book the famous trickster learns that
the woodpecker way of getting food is definitely not one for him! A simple tale,
this would be a humorous addition to a guided reading collection. Canadian.
Language
Arts
1-6
F Ada
(EPS) This is part of the Eaglecrest collection and therefore shows the daily life
of modern First Nation families. This particular book is the story of Michelle, a
talented basketball player from Ontario, who makes the provincial Aboriginal
team. By making the team, Michelle is given the opportunity to play in the
National Indigenous games in British Columbia. Simple text and photographs
make the series good for students who are working on strengthening literacy
skills. While the reading level is 3.6 the story line, format and the age of the
characters will draw in older readers.
Language
Arts
4-12
F Dum
(EPS) This is part of a series of 4 books that are based in the Cowichan valley
and show the daily life of modern First Nation families. Each book is a miniadventure. Simple text and photographs make the series good for students who
are working on strengthening literacy skills. While the reading level is 3.2, the
story line, format and the age of the characters will draw in older readers.
Series: Jack and the Boys. Canadian.
Language
Arts
4-6
F Dum
(EPS) This is part of a series of 4 books based in the Cowichan valley and show
the daily life of modern First Nation families. Each book is a mini-adventure.
Simple text and photographs make the series good for students who are
working on strengthening literacy skills. While the reading level is 3.2, the story
line, format and the age of the characters will draw in older readers. Series:
Jack and the Boys. Canadian.
Language
Arts
4-6
On Order
(EPS) This is part of a series of 4 books that are based in the Cowichan valley
and show the daily life of modern First Nation families. Each book is a miniadventure. Simple text and photographs make the series good for students who
are working on strengthening literacy skills. While the reading level is 3.2, the
story line, format and the age of the characters will draw in older readers.
Series: Jack and the Boys. Canadian.
Language
Arts
1-6
2010
2010
2010
2010
33
Author:
Delia
Dumont
Maracle,
Lee
Guest,
Jacqueline
Guest,
Jacqueline
Title:
Soccer
Adventure
Will’s Garden
At Risk
Lightning
Rider
Guest,
Jacqueline
Soccer Star
Stott, Jon
C.
A Book of
Tricksters:
Tales from
Many Lands
Scott, Ann
Herbert
On Mother’s
Lap
Return to Subject Links
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
Language
Arts
1-6
Language
Arts
7-12
F Gue
When Sage Knowles, a young girl who has lived on the streets since running
away from home, becomes her client at a group home for troubled girls, new
counselor Tia Winter wonders if Sage will be willing to work on her problems, do
her required farm chores, and be able to gain self-confidence from the program
based on working with, and learning from, horses.
Language
Arts
6-9
F Gue
(EPS) January, a strong Metis girl, learns that her brother is intensive care. She
soon sets out to prove that he is innocent of the criminal charges against him:
he is the prime suspect in a string of motorcycle thefts. A marvelous story with
action, affection, and strong family ties.
Language
Arts
6-9
2010
In
Process
(EPS) Thirteen year old Sam Aqsarniq-Keys is a soccer star. Her mother is in the
Canadian military and has just been transferred to Edmonton. Sam's parents
allow her to participate in only one extra curricular activity but when she makes
the soccer team and lands the lead character in the new school play, how will
she manage both? A coming-of-age story about family, culture, strength and
consequences. Readers will connect with the transitions of moving, new school
and friendships. An appropriate novel for later division 2 and division 3.
Language
Arts
6-9
2010
398.22
Sto
(EPS) This delightful collection of fourteen trickster tales from around the world
includes two Aboriginal stories, "How Raven Freed the Sun" and "How Nanabozo
Lost His Big Feast." There are extensive author notes about the background of
each tale. A glossary is also included.
Language
Arts
4-6
F Sco
(EPS) Michael, a little boy in the Arctic, loves being cuddled on his mother's lap:
"back and forth, back and forth they rocked." Michael learns that her lap has
room for Dolly, Boat, his reindeer blanket and his baby sister. The story deals
with sibling jealousy kindly and gently. Glo Coalson's illustrations reflect the
love and gentleness demonstrated by Michael's Mother.
Language
Arts
Pre-K
2010
2008
2004
2000
1992
On Order
(EPS) This is part of a series of 4 books that are based in the Cowichan valley
and show the daily life of modern First Nation families. Each book is a miniadventure. Simple text and photographs make the series good for students who
are working on strengthening literacy skills. While the reading level is 3.2, the
story line, format and the age of the characters will draw in older readers.
Series: Jack and the Boys. Canadian.
F Mar
(EPS) This is a wonderful coming-of-age story of a young, modern Sto:lo man.
Humorous, thoughtful and respectful of all cultures, Will takes the time to
examine the women in his life as he considers his future. This story deals with
bullying, love, illness and the kinship ties in First Nation families.
34
Author:
Kavasch, E.
Barrie
Title:
Zuni Children
and Elders
Talk Together
Masuzumi,
Alfred
Caribou Hide
Schilling,
Vincent
Men of
Courage from
our First
Nations
Schultz
Nicholson,
Lorna
Roughing
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
1999
1999
2008
2004
On Order
(EPS) Part of a series, this is an excellent book with many teachings. The format
reflects the content, as traditional cultural teachings are done using the words
of the Seminole Elders, while modern culture is done descriptively. Lots of
information is given in the text as well as in the magnificent photos. One
caution, the author consistently uses the word reservation - an American term.
In Canada we use reserve. Part of series: Children and Elders.
Language
Arts
4-8
799.29
Mas
(EPS) These two simple yet heartwarming stories tell of a hunter in the north.
He is clever, resourceful and humorous and these traits help him to overcome
each of the obstacles placed in his path. Written in the cadence of oral
storytelling, and illustrated by the author. A wonderful addition to a unit on oral
storytelling, biography, and for teaching students to write about what they know
well. Lots of interesting survival techniques are included!
Language
Arts
4-6
Ordered
Main
(EPS) This is a collection of stories of First Nations men who have faced difficult
circumstances. Their triumphs in the face of adversity are inspirational for youth
of all cultures. It could be used as part of a genre study on biographies as well
as an examination of character traits or virtues that build resilience. Great as
read-a-louds as well. Part of series: First Nations Series for Young Readers
Language
Arts
4-12
In
Process
(EPS) Set at a summer hockey camp this story is about making good choices,
team playing, loyalties and friendship. Josh has been invited to an elite hockey
camp where he meets Peter, a skilled hockey player from the Northwest
Territories, and Kevin, a well-known teen hockey star. As rivalries increase, Josh
must choose between what is popular and what is right. Part of series: Sports
Stories
Language
Arts
4-8
In
Process
(EPS) Great hockey skills, school and team pressures, family and friends...how
does one rising hockey star hold it all together while still maintaining the values
and teachings of his family? The story of Peter Kuiksak is inspired by the hockey
career of Jordin Tootoo. It gives the reader insight into the lives of young
athletes, the pressures of team sports, and the importance of having strong
values both in hockey and in life.
Language
Arts
4-8
Language
Arts
4-9
Language
Arts
K-3
Schultz
Nicholson,
Lorna
Northern Star
Jackson,
Lawrence
Newfoundland
and Labrador
2002
1995
(EPS) Each book in this series (Hello Canada) represents a different region in
Canada. Aboriginal peoples are respectfully portrayed as integral and
contemporary parts of the community. Maps, photos, diagrams and drawings
contribute to the visual literacy experience.
Sloat, Teri
There Was an
Old Lady Who
Swallowed a
Trout!
1998
In
Process
(EPS) A fast paced, rollicking retelling of “There Was an Old Lady Who
Swallowed a Fly”, this is sure to delight all readers. It is set on the west coast,
with many familiar icons. Great for early literacy or as a read-aloud.
Return to Subject Links
2006
35
Author:
Wheeler,
Jordan
Edlund,
laura
Wollison,
Mary Anne
Guest,
Jacqueline
Guest,
Jacqueline
Cardinal,
Will
Yahgulanaa
sMichael
Nicoll
Title:
Just a Walk
The Inuksuk
Code Talkers
A Goal in
Sight
Rink Rivals
First Nations
Hockey
Players
Little
Hummingbird
Return to Subject Links
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
(EPS) Join Chuck on his wild and zany walk as he finds himself in many unusual
situations and ends up swimming with a fish, riding on a bear and flying with an
eagle. The rollicking text and humourous pictures will keep young children
giggling for sure!
Language
Arts
K-3
2007
(EPS) This book is a welcome addition to social study units that look at different
communities across Canada. This nonfiction book contains the characteristic
features associated with reference books: table of contents, index, glossary,
photographs, maps and bold print that introduces new vocabulary Regretfully,
individuals in the photographs are not identified. Part of series: Literacy Place
Language
Arts
1-6
2008
(EPS) While forbidden to speak their own language at residential school, Navajo
brothers Lee and Charlie use their language to help win World War II. This
graphic novel blends facts and fictionalized characters as it tells the true story
of the famous Navajo Code Talkers. Sure to delight reluctant readers! Part of
series: Timeline
Language
Arts
4-9
F Gue
This novel, about understanding and compassion, introduces the reader to a
real Calgary hockey team called the Calgary Seeing Ice Dogs. As part of his
assigned community service hours Aiden works with Eric, a visually impaired
hockey player, to learn new ways to approach his favorite sport and life itself.
Part of series: Sports Stories
Language
Arts
4-6
F Gue
Rink Rivals is about a family who moves from Whapmagoostui, Quebec to
Calgary, Alberta. The twin brothers, Evan and Bryn experience trials and
tribulations while adjusting to their new life in Calgary. While their differing
passions have caused conflict between them in the past, both must come to
accept each other and themselves if they are to truly thrive in in their new
home. With themes of hockey, music, school and friends, this story is an
engaging novel for intermediate readers. Part of series: Sports Stories.
Language
Arts
4-6
On Order
While it includes a short history of native hockey, this book is primarily a
collection of biographies of male First Nations hockey players. It features both
the current players and players who are legends in hockey history. It speaks to
the obstacles these young men had to face if they wanted to become a part of
the NHL. This is an inspirational book for any aspiring young hockey player.
Language
Arts
4-12
398.2089
Yag
The great forest is on fire, and the terrified animals are fleeing for their lives.
But not the courageous hummingbird who defies fear and expectations in her
attempt to save the forest from fire. The story is beautifully illustrated by the
author, an internationally renowned Haida artist. This tale is simple, yet the
message is powerful as one is inspired to take even small steps to save our
planet. Included in the book are facts about hummingbirds, as well as an
inspiring message from Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai who planted
trees across Kenya. Canadian.
Language
Arts
K-6
2009
2002
2001
2008
2010
F Whe
On Order
36
Author:
Meili,
Dianne
Redbird,
Duke
Title:
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
This book is particularly good for our Alberta children as it takes place on the
Kootenay plains. Part of The Literacy Place series, it is an excellent tool for
guided reading. Wonderful illustrations depict a close and important relationship
in Aboriginal culture:grandparent and grandchild. The landscape will be familiar
to many! Canadian.
Language
Arts
K-3
On Order
Duke Redbird wrote this poem in 1977 as a gift for Queen Elizabeth II. This is a
superb reprint, with photographs and drawings that make it multi-textual and
complex. An excellent resource for all Division 1, 2 and 3 classrooms. Available
through Scholastic Education. Part of series: Graphic Poetry.
Language
Arts
Pre-8
Language
Arts
4-8
Camping at
the Lake
I Am A
Canadian
2009
Penn,
Audrey
The Whistling
Tree
2003
In
Process
This story tells of a young girl who finds out that she has a special connection to
trees, and then that she is from the Cherokee First Nation. The illustrations do a
wonderful job portraying a modern family who walk proudly in both cultures.
One of the reviewers pointed out that young people from Aboriginal cultures
who are in care, or who are adopted through the kinship model, often find out
about who they are later in life and so this books speaks to that experience.
Thomspon,
Richard
The Night
Walker
2002
F Tho
A story of a young boy who, as he is out exploring, gathers trinkets from his
journey. Time is waning and he is far from home. He has heard of Night Walker
and fears this creature is following him. At last, full of fear, he runs, falls and
waits. Great for Halloween!
Language
Arts
4-6
Cumming,
Peter
Out on the Ice
in the Middle
of the Bay
2004
F Cum
This is an Arctic version of "Blueberries for Sal" In it a young girl wanders from
her father at the same time a polar bear cub wanders away from his mother.
The story unfolds when they meet out on the ice in the middle of the bay.
Language
Arts
Pre-3
Kusugak,
Michael
Arvaarluk
and Robert
Munsch
A Promise is a
Promise
Language
Arts
Pre-K-3
Beautiful illustrations add luster to this somewhat sad story of a young girl who
loses her beloved mother. Her sorrow is lessened when a wise grandmother
explains that the northern lights are really the people who have gone before us
playing a huge game of soccer in the sky. Many Aboriginal cultures have stories
about the Northern lights and this adds to a collection of tales about light and
shadows. The author of this story is Inuk. Annick Press provides lesson plans
online that accompany this book.
Language
Arts
4-6
Buy this book! It is small, but powerful, and a new genre: Graphic poetry that
can be used for multiple areas of the curriculum. Use as part of a poetry unit,
for the description of writing traits, for Social Studies and even to stimulate
dance. Marvellous illustrations as well. Available through Scholastic Education.
Part of series: Graphic Poetry . Canadian.
Language
Arts
K-8
Kusugak,
Michael
Arvaarluk
Ipellie,
Alootook
F Mun
Northern
Lights: The
Soccer Trails
I Shall Wait
and See
Return to Subject Links
1988
1993
2009
(Also in
Munschworks
3: The Third
Munsch
Treasury)
F Kus
In this book Robert Munsch teams up with Michael Kusugak to tell a rollicking
tale of the north. Young readers will love the format even though it is a little
spooky at times! This is the 25th printing and has won numerous awards.
37
Author:
Title:
Delaronde,
Deborah L.
Flour Sack
Flora
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
A wonderful look at small town Saskatchewan in the 1940-50's. With great
attention to detail, Deborah Delaronde takes us with a young girl who needs to
Language
2001
F Del
find a pretty dress so that she can go to town with her parents. With the help and
K-3
Arts
creativity of her grandmother and many friends, this determined girl sets out to
obtain a new party dress.
In
Process
A beginning novel that tells of the difficulties Murphy faces when going to live
with his mother on her First Nation Reserve. This is a great book to use as a
novel study for a theme on courage, change, moving or bullying. Highly
recommended as it does not try to teach, preach, or appeal to a narrow
audience--just great writing with Aboriginal protagonists in a modern context.
The two students who read it (one boy age 10, one girl age 14) also both loved
it!
Language
Arts
4-6
Language
Arts
K-3
Olsen
Sylvia
Murphy and
Mousetrap
Crowley,
Ned
Nanook and
Pryce: Gone
Fishing
2009
In
Process
An excellent and hilarious story that is rhythmic and full of great word choices
although the pictures really tell the whole story. Six-syllable couplets tell the
story of two young children who are unaware of the danger that surrounds
them as their ice floe circles the world. Yukon, their vigilant dog keeps every
crisis at bay! Delightful illustrations.
Norac, Carl
Big Bear, Little
Brother
2009
In
Process
A wonderful story about the friendship between a boy lost in a storm and a
polar bear. A strong message that we can each help one another in different
ways. Beautiful illustrations that will engage a read-aloud audience.
Language
Arts
Pre-K-3
Language
Arts
4-6
2005
Spalding,
Andrea
Solomon’s
Tree
2002
F Spa
A story of how Solomon deals with the grief of losing a maple tree he dearly
loved. While creating a mask from the felled tree, an uncle guides Solomon
through the grieving process using traditional ways. Through the mask's
creation Solomon learns that the spirit of the tree continues to live in the mask.
A very good story to use when a child is grieving to help them see that the
spirit of the loved one lives on. On a cautionary note, Elders have historically
seen mask making activities as spiritually potent and masks are not toys. This
book should be read as a story, not as a depiction or cultural generalization.
Olsen,
Sylvia
Middle Row
2008
F Ols
A short adventurous story about two teens looking for a missing friend. As they
seek to find him they encounter racism and discrimination in their community
and discover that their friend is in more danger than they thought.
Language
Arts
7-9
Wheeler,
Jordan
Chuck in the
City
2009
F Whe
A humorous rhyming tale of a young Cree boy who comes to the city for the
first time - and immediately gets lost. The bright detailed illustrations are in
anime style.
Language
Arts
K-4
2009
In
Process
Jason is determined to win races with the horse he names Binesi - the Ojibwe
word for Thunderbird. In spite of teasing, bullying and the occasional bout of
self doubt he does just that! Some Ojibwe words included in text with a
glossary at the end of the story.
Language
Arts
1-3
Wagner,
Elaine
Racin’ Jason
Return to Subject Links
38
Author:
Porter,
Pamela
Bruchac,
Joseph
McLellan,
Joe
Title:
Sky
Fox Song
The Birth of
Nanabosho
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2004
F Por
Young Georgia lives with her grandparents. Disaster strikes when a nearby dam
breaks and their home is washed away. Based on a true event in 1964, the
people in this resilient Cree/Metis family rebuild their lives and start anew.
While simply written, the book depicts many aspects of modern Aboriginal life
and deals candidly with the blatant racism of the 60's. In the words of an 8 year
old "This book was great if you love animals. It's still great if you don't like
animals. It can get sad but I highly recommend it".
1993
F Bru
A beautifully illustrated story of a modern day Aboriginal girl, dealing with the
loss of her beloved great-grandmother. Through the story we hear the voice of
"Grama" passing on traditional knowledge.
Language
Arts
4-7
1989
398.2089
McL
This story, told in traditional style, tells of the birth of Nanabosho, famous
trickster of the Anishinabe.
Language
Arts
4-6
1989
F Cro
This is a very uplifting book about family. It reminds the reader about the
connection to Mother Earth and all her fine gifts. A story of respect and humility,
it is a wonderful addition to the stories we all read each Christmas. Would also
nicely round out a text set on multicultural holiday celebrations.
Language
Arts
1-6
2002
796.424
Bat
This is an extensive biography about Tom Longboat. Would be useful as a
research project resource for Division III students. Full of information on the
life, triumphs and struggles of this Aboriginal Canadian athlete. Extensive index
included as well as many photographs.
Language
Arts
6-9
2009
F Cha
A fictional story that is is inspiring on many levels. A young boy is born with a
club foot yet dreams of being a hockey player. In spite of the obstacles, he
hangs on to this dream as his family and community rally around. Together they
raise a champion!
Language
Arts
1-6
This retelling of a traditional oral story is fast paced and humorous. Tacit
messages abound, including the value of working together, the need for peace
rather than war, and the value of compromise. Part of series: On My Own
Folklore.
Language
Arts
1-6
Language
Arts
4-6
Crow, Allan
The Crying
Christmas
Tree
Batten,
Jack
The Man Who
Ran Faster
Than
Everyone
Chartrand,
Jean and
Dionne
Nolan
I want to be
in the show
Krensky,
Stephen
How Coyote
Stole the
Summer
2009
398.2089
Kre
Trottier,
Maxine
Loon Rock
1996
F Tro
The stories may not be the most dynamic, however the illustrations and the fact
that it is dual language (English and Mi'kmaq) make it a worthwhile addition to
an Aboriginal collection.
Language
Arts
1-5
F Cro
This story is about a young boy, who by watching Red Squirrel very closely
discovers maple sap and brings this "sweet water" to his hungry community.
Both the details in the story and in the colourful illustrations give the reader a
picture of life in an early Ojibway village.
Language
Arts
1-6
Crook,
Connie
Brummel
Maple Moon
Return to Subject Links
1997
39
Author:
Title:
Bushey,
Jeanne
The Polar
Bear’s Gift
Landman,
Tanya
I am Apache
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
F Bus
A very cute story about a young Inuit girl who longs to be a hunter. Before she
can do so, her grandmother says that she must first learn to catch fish. This
book is inspired by a traditional Inuit legend.
Language
Arts
K-3
F Lan
Fourteen year old Siki watches in horror as her beloved brother and mother are
killed before her eyes. Filled with a desire to avenge their deaths, she becomes
a warrior in her Apache tribe. This book is fast paced and well written. Great for
a novel study on courage.
Language
Arts
6-12
A young boy answers his friend's questions about the bread in his lunch. This is
a variation on a cumulative tale and could be used to develop sequence writing.
Curr. Lab owns Cree Translation. 497.323 Pla
Language
Arts
K-4
F Kin
A rollicking tale of Trickster coyote being tricked by Raven! It results in a huge
mix-up-animals with human clothes, humans in animal suits and EVERYONE
mad at coyote! A book that is sure to appeal to all elementary students!
Language
Arts
K-6
F Har
A terrific modern story about a girl and her beloved cat - a cat who is on its
"last" of nine lives. Readers of all ages will enjoy this story and savour the
illustrations which demonstrate how well the artist Paul Lee knows the
mischievous nature of cats!
Language
Arts
K-4
2000
F Bar
A young boy from a First Nation of the Northwest coast loses his canoe during a
fierce winter storm. During the next year, he makes himself a new canoe under
the watchful eye of his uncle - the canoe maker of the village. Along the way he
learns many valuable lessons relating to his culture, history, respect for Mother
Earth, tools etc. Beautiful illustrations accompany the text and link modern and
traditional ways of living.
Language
Arts
1-6
Missuk longs to be a carver like her father. Frustrated, she leaves her igloo and
spends the day watching and listening to the tundra. One of Missuk's actions on
this day ends up saving her father's life. This book has won numerous awards.
It is important to remind students that this story portrays a traditional life style.
Language
Arts
K-4
This “story within a story” celebrates oral story telling in a modern world. It also
quietly and carefully demonstrates the relationship between Aboriginal
grandchildren and grandparents.
Language
Arts
K-6
A cumulative tale that connects beaver to bannock. This is a great addition to
Division 1 writing programs.
Language
Arts
Pre-K-6
2000
2008
Plain,
Ferguson
Frybread
2003
King,
Thomas
Coyote’s New
Suit
2004
Harjo, Joy
The Good
Luck Cat
2010
BarberStarkey,
Joe
Jason’s New
Dugout Canoe
Renaud,
Anne
Missuk’s Snow
Goose
2008
In
Process
The Rabbit’s
Race
2009
In
Process
I Can’t Have
Bannock But
the Beaver
Has a Dam
1984
F Spa
Wheeler,
Bernelda
Return to Subject Links
40
Author:
Brouwer,
Sigmund
Waataseco
ot Brenda
Title:
Oil King
Courage
Granny’s
Giant Bannock
We Are the
People: A
Trilogy of
Okanagan
Legends
Mayuk the
Grizzly Bear
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2009
F Bro
In this fictional story, Reuben Reuben is an ice hockey player of Inuit heritage.
In the midst of exciting hockey action, Reuben learns about teamwork, the
North and a family mystery. Reuben's grandmother encourages him to travel to
various Arctic communities to connect with his Inuit roots. Contains 32 chapters
with author's notes.
Canadian. Part of Series: Orca Sports.
2008
In
Process
Children will love this rollicking tale of a bannock gone wild. Told in Robert
Munsch style, this modern Cree story is sure to make your students laugh with
delight.
Language
Arts
Pre-K-3
398.2089
Koy
Three Okanagan legends are featured in this book: How Food Was Given, How
Names Were Given & How Turtle Set the Animals Free. Each line of text is
translated into the Okanagan language and each story is accompanied by
colourful, imaginative watercolours. Woven into each legend are themes and
teachings: respect for all living creatures, sharing, kindness and thankfulness.
Language
Arts
1-6
1993
398.2089
May
An Elder loves his clever great-grandson. When it comes time to name him, the
Elder tells the legend of Mayuk the Grizzly Bear. In this legend three brave
brothers hunt for a clever and strong bear in order to provide food for their
families. Thinking the Elder is going to name his great-grandson after one of the
hunters, the community is surprised by the name the Elder chooses. The story
is illustrated with bold, black and white illustrations, some in the traditional
style of Sechelt wood carving, some as small line drawings depicting scenes
from the story. A short description of the Sechelt people is also included.
Language
Arts
K-6
A grandfather shares his favorite story with his grandchildren as they drive to
their ice fishing location. The danger of greed and how one makes amends is
explored through the grandfather's tale. The author provides a list of Ojibway
works used in the story and gives their meaning.
Language
Arts
2-6
2009
Language
Arts
3-6
McLellan,
Joe
Nanabosho,
Soaring Eagle
and the Great
Sturgeon
1993
398.2089
McL
McLellan,
Joe
Nanabosho
Dances
1991
398.2089
McL
This picture book celebrates and explains some of the traditional practices and
values of First Nations cultures. A young boy learns about the origins of the
hoop dance from his Elders. The large multi-media illustrations are colourful,
detailed and help illustrate salient points of the story-line.
Language
Arts
2-7
Bouchard,
David
The Drum
Calls Softly
2008
F Bou
This book is a powerfully narrated tale of spiritual belonging, using the symbol
of the drum. The story is written from an Aboriginal perspective but can
transcend culture. An audio CD is included with Cree and English.
Language
Arts
1-6
1993
398.2089
How
Language
Arts
K-6
How the Robin
Got Its Red
Breast
Return to Subject Links
Also in
Collections 4
The story of how the robin got its red breast is told in the context of its
importance to the survival of the families of some Sechelt hunters. This story is
illustrated with bold, black and white illustrations, some in the traditional style
of Sechelt wood carving, some as small line drawings depicting scenes from the
story. A short description of the Sechelt people is also included.
41
Author:
Title:
Lewis, Paul
Owen
Storm Boy
Cleaver,
Elizabeth
The
Enchanted
Caribou
Kusugak,
Michael
Arvaarluk
Waboose,
Jan
Bourdeau
Arctic Stories
Sky Sisters
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
1997
398.2089
Lew
A young boy is tossed from his fishing boat and lands in a strange yet beautiful
place. When returning home, he finds that he has been gone a full year. Rich
illustrations add much detail to the story and the three motifs of separation,
initiation, and return.
Language
Arts
1-6
1985
398.2089
cle
This Inuit legend depicts a girl who is transformed into a white caribou and then
magically changed back. The legend explains why Inuit hunters are kind to
white caribou. The black and white illustrations are like shadow puppets, and
included with the book are instructions on how to make one's own shadow
puppets.
Language
Arts
4-6
F Kus
This book contains three stories about an Inuit girl named Agatha. The stories
are fictional but based on fact. The first story takes place in the summer of
1958 when the ugly black thing arrives (helium filled airship) in Repulse Bay.
The second story is about Agatha's relationship with a raven. The third story is
about Agatha being taken out of her community to attend Catholic school. The
prologue and epilogue provide the factual background for this book and there is
a dictionary of Inuit words used in the stories. The vivid illustrations and
delightful text portray contemporary life in the Northwest Territories through the
eyes of a young girl.
Language
Arts
K-5
2000
F Wab
This is a modern story of two young Ojibwa sisters as they set off across the
frozen north country and treasure the stillness of the winter evening walk. The
story is not only about the relationship between the two sisters, but also about
their encounter with a rabbit, deer and coyote. Most importantly, the story is
about their experience of the northern lights -their sky sisters.
Language
Arts
2-6
This is one of a number of wonderfully illustrated books combining the talents of
Michael Arvaarluk Kusugak and Vladyana Krykorka. It is a story of an Inuit girl
who learns about the nasty little Ijiraq who appears during a game of hide and
seek. The Ijiraq hides you so well you will never be found, unless you can find
your way home with an Inukshuk!
Language
Arts
K-6
Big Bear brags and brags. He claims that he is so big and strong, he can do
anything. Brown Squirrel doesn't believe Big Bear and a contest is proposed.
When Big Bear loses, he lashes out and gives Chimpmunk a lasting memory!
Told by many Native American story tellers along the East coast.
Language
Arts
K-3
Language
Arts
1-3
1998
Kusugak,
Michael
Arvaarluk
Hide and
Sneak
1996
Collectio
ns 3 v.24
372.6 Col
Gr. 3 v.
24
Bruchac,
James
How
Chipmunk Got
His Stripes
2001
398.2089
Bru
Shoulders,
Debbie and
Michael
D is for Drum
2006
970.1
Sho
Return to Subject Links
An addition to a collection of alphabet books, this book brings together ideas
from Aboriginal people across North America.
42
Author:
Title:
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
Bruchac,
Joseph
Skeleton Man
2001
F Bru
Molly wakes up one morning to discover her parents are gone. She is turned
over to her great-uncle, a mysterious man totally unknown to her. The uncle
rarely speaks to Molly and locks her in her room at night. By remembering what
her parents told her about trusting dreams, Molly is able to solve the mystery of
her their disappearance. The original “Skeleton Man” is part of a traditional
Mohawk story. Bruchac's novel respectfully incorporates traditional Mohawk lore
into this page-turning chiller. A short and easy read, it will attract reluctant
readers.
Dorris,
Michael
Sees Behind
Trees
1996
F Dor
A "coming of age" story about a boy whose eyesight is poor but whose other
senses allow him to help his community. Includes lots of description of historical
Aboriginal life and describes relationships between family members.
Language
Arts
2-6
1992
Tribal storytellers have passed on this Zuni story for centuries. In 1884 it was
translated into English and published by anthropologist Frank Cushing in “The
Millstone”. The story tells of a village who wastes their harvest out of pride. The
Corn Maidens, disgusted with what they see, decide to teach the village a
lesson. As the lesson unfolds, the village learns the meaning of gratitude and
respect. At the same time, it is the legend of how the dragonfly came to be.
This story would be an excellent choice for a legends unit, for studying
character traits, and also to show how corn was a staple across North American
First Nations.
Language
Arts
4-6
2002
On Order
This is another book in a series of traditional teachings. When Nokomis spies
her grandson watching hummingbirds, she uses the opportunity to teach him
about being faithful and believing in others. Along the way, she tells the story of
how the Eagle got his white head, and why the humming bird has a ruby throat.
Language
Arts
1-5
2010
398.2089
Ahe
Written in English and Cree, this is another addition to the many famous
trickster tales. In this one Wisahkecahk flies to the moon, and before the tale is
up, provides the legend of the creation of muskeg. As a sideline it explains the
origins of a the crane’s long legs. A simple, beautifully illustrated short story.
Language
Arts
K-3
F Kus
The wonderful, humourous story of a little by named Arvaarluk who lives in
Repulse Bay. During the Christmas of 1955, the community receives six trees as
a gift. Having never seen "standups" before, they turn them into baseball bats.
The children spend the rest of the year playing baseball and look forward to the
next Christmas when new "baseball bats" will come again!
Language
Arts
K-6
F Bru
Danny Bigtree's family has moved to New York and he just doesn't seem to fit
in. Danny is homesick for his Mohawk reserve and is tired of being called "chief'
by other students. While the story moves towards a far too simplistic ending, it
does illuminate the difficulties First Nations youth face as they walk in two
worlds.
Language
Arts
3-6
Rodanas,
Kristina
Dragonfly’s
Tale
Chartrand,
Jean
How the Eagle
Got His White
Head
Ahenakew,
Freda
Wisahkecahk
Flies to the
Moon
Kusugak,
Michael
Arvaarluk
Baseball Bats
for Christmas
Bruchac,
Joseph
Eagle Song
Return to Subject Links
1999
1997
Language
Arts
4-6
43
Author:
Lalor, George
Auger, Daniel
Bruchac,
Joseph
Yahgulanaas,
Michael Nicoll
James, Betsy
Fitzpatrick,
Marie-Louise
James,
Betsy
Eyvindson,
Peter
Vaughan,
Richard lee
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Title:
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
An adult returns to the Metis community where he spent a summer and befriended
a local boy. He sets out to help his friend’s widow by uncovering a “secret trove”
Old Woman
Language
2002
On order
on an island. Engaging and thought-provoking story with some coarse and
10-12
Island
Arts
derogatory language. Metis setting is secondary. Recommended resource in
Saskatchewan.
(EPS) Sandy Lafonde returns to her childhood home of Watishka First Nation to
Watishka
find a fractured community. Soon she realizes that she needs to do something and Language
2008
F Aug
6-12
Warriors
proposes starting a junior hockey team. A story of hockey, hope, reserve life and Arts
gang behaviour, this tale should delight reluctant readers.
As a member of the Mohawk Bear Clan, Baron has always been fascinated by
bears—their gentle strength and untamed power. But the Bearwalker legend,
passed down by his ancestors, tells of a different kind of creature—a terrible mix Language
Bearwalker
2007 In Process
4-9
of human and animal that looks like a bear but is really a bloodthirsty monster.
Arts
The tale never seemed to be more than a scary story. Until now. Fast-paced novel
that will grab readers.
The Last Voyage
High interest graphic novel illustrating the clash between the New World loggers Language
2002 On Order
4-8
of the Black Ship
and the Haida. Part of a campaign to raise awareness about B.C’s red cedars. Arts
The mud family 1994
F Jam
A fictional story of a young Anasazi girl who creates a doll family out of mud
Language
during a difficult time of extreme drought for her people. Engaging introduction to
K-3
Arts
this fascinating ancient culture.
The Long March:
In 1847 the Choctaw, themselves impoverished, raised $170 (the equivalent of
The Chocktaw’s
Language
1998 In Process more than $5ooo today) to aid the Irish, then in the throes of the great potato
Pre-K
gift to Irish
Arts
famine. Endorsed by the Choctaw nation.
famine relief.
The Mud
Family
Red Parka
Mary
Eagle Boy
Return to Subject Links
1994
1996
1993
F Jam
Sosi and her family are facing times of drought and becoming increasingly
worried. Soon they will need a new place to live. Sosi, tired of the mounting
tension, runs down to the river and creates a small mud doll family. This family
does not cry or argue. Sosi makes her doll dance for rain and brings the rain to
her own family.
Language
Arts/
Health
1-6
F Eyv
A heart warming story of how a young boy learns to look beyond outward
appearances and discover the kindness and love of his neighbour Mary. As they
get to know each other, Mary teaches the boy many things. At Christmas the
boy presents Mary with a gift of a warm red parka and Mary gives the boy the
biggest and best gift of all- the gift of her love. Colourful, lifelike illustrations
help tell this gentle story.
Language
Arts/
Health
1-6
On Order
Eagle boy is an orphan in his coastal village. He is laughed at and teased by
other children in the village for feeding fish to the eagles in the sky. When
winter comes, and food is scarce, it is Eagle boy who has the ability to feed the
entire village. Traditional values of generosity, forgiveness and self sufficiency
are presented. Rich illustrations help tell the story of how an outcast becomes a
hero.
Language
Arts/
Health and
Life Skills
K-9
44
Author:
Title:
Miles,
Miska
Annie and the
Old One
Eyvindson,
Peter
Chubby
Champ
Waboose,
Jan
Bourdeau
Where only
the Elders GoMoon Lake
Loon Lake
Olsen,
Sykvia and
Ron Martin
Boyden,
Linda
Which Way
Should I Go?
The Blue
Roses
Storm,
Jennifer
Deadly
Loyalties
Sam, Ann,
Rita Morris
and Sylvia
Olsen
No Time to
Say Goodbye
Return to Subject Links
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
A moving and gentle story of a young girl who must cope with the death of a
beloved grandparent. While the illustrations are simple and without colour, the
written description is filled with colour and life. All things come together as
Annie learns that death is part of a greater circle and that Grandmother will
always be with her.
Language
Arts/
Health and
Life Skills
4-6
1997
Chubby Champ is a beginning, easy to read novel. It will appeal to all children
who have nicknames they hate, or who are trying to navigate the complexities
of school playground life. My nine year old niece couldn't put it down. It would
be a great resource to start class conversations on bullying or name calling.
Language
Arts/
Health and
Life Skills
4-6
2003
F Wab
This is the story of an Ojibway boy who hears the call of the loon and is
reminded of his grandfather. The gentle, rhythmical text gently leads the reader
into understanding how death fits into the cycle of life. Beautiful watercolours
help to illuminate the text.
Language
Arts/
Health and
Life Skills
K-6
F Ols
This book is about a happy young Tia-o-qui-aht boy and the loving relationship
he has with his grandmother. His grandmother always gives the young boy
choice and teaches him her song "Which Way Should I Go?" But when his
grandmother dies the young boy grieves and is very unhappy until he discovers
he has a choice in grief too. The book portrays a First Nations family living in
modern time and the wisdom that is passed from one generation to the next.
The delightful illustrations support this ultimately joyful story.
Language
Arts/
Health and
Life Skills
K-6
F Boy
This is a gentle story about the cycle of life. Rosalie is loved by her grandfather
who teaches her how to plant and tend a garden. With the plants, the
grandfather teaches Rosalie about the cycle of life and that death is part of that
cycle. When her grandfather dies, Rosalie experiences warmth and love from
her extended family as she walks through her time of grief. She has a dream
about her grandfather in his heavenly place with the blue roses they could
never grow. Through that vision Rosalie learns a way to keep her grandfather in
her heart.
Language
Arts/
Health and
Life Skills
2-6
On Order
(EPS) Raw, heart-breaking, factual story of a 13 year old Native girl making bad
choices and learning the consequences. She sees her friend murdered, is
initiated into a gang and is involved in thefts, drugs, alcohol, sex and loss of self
and dignity. Through it all she often thinks of her mother whose lifestyle is
unstable yet there is love between them. Mature content, but a good study in
resilience and belonging.
Language
Arts/
Health and
Wellness
10-12
F Ols
While this is a fictional account of five children sent to residential school, the
stories are based on recollections of members of the Tsartlip First Nations
people. Every dimension of life is altered and yet the students band together in
companionship. The book is sad, funny, painful and yet compelling.
Language
Arts/
Social
Studies
6-9
1973
2007
2002
2007
2001
F Mil
45
Author:
Swanson,
Bruce
Pelletier,
Jeanne et.
al
McDermott,
Gerald
James,
Elizabeth
Title:
Gray Wolf’s
Search
Stories of Our
People: Lil
Zistwayr di la
Naasyoon de
Michif: A Metis
Graphic Novel
Anthology
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2007
2008
In
Process
This book is the story of a young boy's quest to answer a question posed to him
by the village medicine man (shaman). Through his quest the boy learns about
his place in the wolf clan, as well as the importance of all living things. There
are some beautiful pictures of the west coast. The writing, however, is not as
compelling as it could be.
Language
Arts/Art
1-3
On Order
The reader is first attracted to this graphic novel by the striking colours and
beautiful illustrations. The authors of this Graphic Anthology explain that these
stories "transmit cultural knowledge to younger generations through the Oral
Tradition". These are stories that explain 'everyday things' and 'things we don't
understand'. Three different formats are used to present each story - graphic
novel, prose and the original uninterrupted transcription. In this way every
reader's needs can be met. The stories are entertaining, easy to understand
and purposeful. Characters and themes from Cree, Ojibway and FrenchCanadian traditions are blended and the Michif-Cree language permeates the
text. This is a lovely text that would be an asset for any school library.
Language
Arts/Art
Pre-K
The anthology is a powerful collection of 38 different artists of native ancestry
from across Canada, the US, Mexico, the Pacific Islands and Japan. The task set
for the contributors as stated in the introduction by editor Sandra Laronde was
to "write about Indigenous women who have shaped, moved or inspired them."
The book is divided into three sections: poetry, short stories and visual arts. A
short biography introduces each artist and much of what is produced is
extremely personal, based upon experience and family. The anthology offers
and inspiring look at First Nations women, and should be available in all junior
high and high school libraries with access for both indigenous and non
indigenous populations. [review by Mona Rosenberg, April 2011]
Language
Arts/Art
7-12
Sky Woman:
Indigenous
Women Who
have Shaped,
Moved or
Inspired Us
2005
Main
PR
9194.5
I5 S58
2005
Raven: A
Trickster Tale
from the
Pacific
Northwest
1993
398.208
9 McD
(EPS) Raven uses trickery to give people the gift of light, demonstrating that he
uses his magical powers to make mischief (through shape-shifting) and to bring
a blessing to the people. It is beautifully illustrated. Students will be engaged.
Language
Arts/Art
K-3
398.2089
Jam
This is an exquisite retelling of an ancient story told by many First Nations
peoples in the Yukon and British Columbia. It is a tale of transformation both
physically and emotionally. Themes include humility, respect, family ties and
reverence for all life. The story is made even more beautiful with the art of
Atanas Matsoureff. He illustrates many details of the traditional life of the West
Coast peoples.
Language
Arts/Art
1-6
The Woman
Who Married a
Bear
Return to Subject Links
2008
46
Author:
Lewis, Paul
Owen
York,
Vanessa
Scow,
Alfred and
Andrea
Spalding
Delaronde,
Deborah L.
Bushney,
Jeanne
Title:
Frog Girl
Art of the Old
Ways
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
Frogs captured by youngsters from a village on the Pacific Northwest Coast
trigger the eruption of a nearby volcano. A young girl is given the opportunity to
save her village when she is summoned to a world below the lake. This is not a
traditional tale, but rather a compilation of legends and motifs from different
First Nations peoples of the pacific northwest. Each picture is a story in and of
itself. Notes at the back help teach how different motifs are presented in the
book.
Language
Arts/Art
K-6
The story of Pitseolak Ashoona is one of hardship and inspiration (and
perspiration!). Read about this remarkable Inuit woman who became a great
artist. Then, use the script at the end of the book to present a play on her life.
Part of a very interesting series: Active lives, biographies on stage. What is
particularly nice about the book is the attention the authors have paid to
ensuring that people in the photographs are identified and their activities
described. This is much better than using stock photos. Available through
Scholastic Education. Part of series: Active Lives: Biographies on Stage.
Language
Arts/
Drama
4-6
F Spa
(EPS) A fictional story of Watl’kina, a young boy who observes a potlatch
ceremony at a time in history when it was forbidden by the Government of
Canada. This book is beautifully illustrated and includes a historical note and
glossary.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
4-6
F Del
(EPS) Little Metis is bored and wants to help everyone with their chores. He
does, but by using different colors of wool to prevent getting lost, he gets into
trouble with the help of Little Boy Wind. It's a modern fable in which students
can learn that every person in a family has a role to play in doing every-day
jobs. It's also a fanciful story of the Metis sash. Source notes and a glossary are
used. Canadian.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
1-3
2007
(EPS) This book will help students in elementary school understand that many
modern Inuit live in towns and cities, wear modern as well as traditional
clothing, and travel in vehicles. At the same time, some race dog sleds, play
traditional games and go out on the land. This book is a wonderful
demonstrations of bicultural competency. Part of series: Literacy Place
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
1-6
2007
Part of Timeline series, reviewed above. Arctic Adventure is the story of the
meeting of two cultures in the North: Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen
meets Meekitjuk of the Inuit. It does a wonderful job showing how cultures can
learn from one another and the debt of gratitude owed to the First Peoples of
our land. Available through Scholastic Education. Canadian.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
4-9
Spectacular paintings illustrating this guide to northern symbols. Spectacular
illustrations complement the text which forms an acrostic poem to the word
Inuksuk. At the end a pronunciation guide and a key to the meanings of
different Inuksiat further illuminate the reader about Arctic life.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
K-5
1997
2009
Secret of the
Dance
Little Metis
and the Metis
Sash
Inuit Still
Cutting,
Robert
Arctic
Adventure
Wallace,
Mary
I is for
Inuksuk
Return to Subject Links
398.2089
Lew
2000
2009
305.8971
Wal
47
Author:
Annino, Jan
Godown
Bayle,
Beverly J.
Swanson,
Diane
Sandoval,
Sam
Rumford,
James
Lewis,
Wendy A.
Title:
She Sang
Promise: The
Story of Betty
Mae Jumper,
Seminole
Tribal Leader
Battle Cry at
Batoche
Buffalo
Sunrise: the
Story of A
North
American
Giant
Beaver steals
Fire
Sequoyah :
the Cherokee
man who gave
his people
writing
Come to the
Pow wow
Return to Subject Links
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2010
2009
2006
2005
2004
2007
On Order
A biography of Betty Mae Jumper of the Seminole Tribe in Florida. This is a story
of a Seminole lady, with strong beliefs in education, who has broken through
many barriers for the sake of her tribe, women and the overall growth of human
kind. Beautiful and traditional illustrations that change with the times. Much
research has gone into the making of this book, including interviews and
conversations with Betty Mae Jumper. Also included in this book is the
chronology of Betty Mae's family, an afterward by her son, a glossary, selected
biography, and information on where to learn more about Betty Mae and/or the
Seminole Tribe.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
Pre-K
On Order
An engaging novel with good historical material and commentary. Good story
from a young boy's naive, unbiased perspective. History: Gabriel Dumon, Louis
Riel, Red River settlement, Dumont's crossing Friendships: Loyalty, Courage
Character Studies: Riel portrayed as a bit of a wild card; Dumont a calmer,
steadier influence; Hudson's Bay Company, Metis, Cree, Northwest mounted
police [review by Bruce Rooney]
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
5-9
599.643
Swa
Diane Swanson introduces young readers to the fascinating world of an
awesome and ancient animal. Readers will be amazed and informed through
this collage of fact, anecdotes, photos, paintings and legends. The writing is
compelling and makes this a wonderful book to use as a read aloud. Could also
be used in parts for guided reading or instruction on how to deconstruct non
fiction text. It is well researched and credited. Highly recommended!
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
1-9
On Order
(EPS) A long time ago, fire belonged only to the animals in the land above, not
to those of the earth below. In Beaver Steals Fire, we learn how animals got
together to steal fire from Curlew and bring it to earth. This is part of a series of
materials that deal with traditional practices related to the use of fire in earth
keeping. There is a wealth of information at the back on traditional life in the
northern Rockies, on fire keeping and on medicinal plants. Canadian.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
1-3
975.004
Rum
(EPS) A well-written book sharing the story of Sequoyah, a Cherokee man
legendary for the creation of the syllabic chart for the Cherokee people. The
story shares Sequoyah's determination, loyalty and courage as he creates what
he believed would be an asset to his people. What makes this story even more
compelling was that Sequoyah did not read in any written language prior to
developing this one. This is a dual language book with English and Cherokee
syllabics.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
4-6
398.2089
Bea
(EPS) This is a good book to use in early literacy or guided reading. One of its
strengths is the modern context for the characters. One caution: the
information about pow-wow at the back is incorrect. The pow-wow began in the
late 1800's as a show organized by Wild Bill Hitchcock. While the dances were
based on traditional spiritual dances, they had never been performed altogether
in this way. The modern day pow-wow has woven together traditional practices
into the original traveling show and has evolved into the gathering it is today.
Part of series: Literacy Place
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
K-3
48
Author:
Title:
Kusugak,
Michael
Arvaarluk
The Curse of
the Shaman
F Kus
What happens when the stories of a curse, a Shaman, a cranky Siksik and a
young boy in the North come together? You get a novel that is funny, exciting
and a great read aloud! Along the way readers will learn a lot about traditional
living in the North. A wonderful tale by master storyteller Michael Kusugak.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
4-9
On Order
This sequel to "Fiddle Dancer" follows a young Metis boy, Nolin, as he continues
to discover his Metis heritage. As Nolin travels with his Moushoom
(grandfather), he experiences his first moose hunt, fiddling, and the "Bannock
Jig." This story is vividly illustrated with Metis colours and motifs. Told in both
English and Michif with an accompanying CD. A glossary and recipe for
"Tourtiere" are included. Received the Saskatchewan Book Award in 2009.
Canadian.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
1-6
F Bun
One day Young Bull is at home with his people, the next day he is far from
home in school. This book introduces children to the tragedy of residential
schools in a way that still carries hope and points to resiliency. Introduces
children to the famous ledger drawings as well.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
4-6
F Sim
Reedee is born with hair the colour of Mother Earth not the colour of the Raven
like the rest of the people in her band. Not only that, each night Reedee
disappears into the forest. While at first dismayed, Reedee's parents soon learn
that Reedee has a path that she must follow and they support Reedee in
becoming her true self. The book also contains additional information about the
clan and crest system of the Pacific Coast First Nations. Recommended by one
reviewer as a good way to understand the old ways when people and animals
were much more interconnected.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
1-6
Crying for a
Vision
2007
Part of the Timeline Series, this graphic novel intersperses each chapter with
information that links past and present. The format will appeal to readers of all
ages who are hooked on graphic novels. Additional textual features include an
index, contents page and “time out” pages that include photographs and facts.
The novel is about a Lakota teenager who participates in a coming of age ritual
in which his courage is tested and his interest in his culture is renewed. Part of
series: Timeline. Canadian.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
4-12
The Boy
Kelsey
This novel tells the story of explorer Henry Kelsey's first trip inland from York
Factory to Saskatchewan in 1690. He is fifteen at the time and attempting to
establish himself with "The Company of Adventurers" by setting up inland trade
partnerships with the First Nations. He ends up traveling with a Cree tribe for
two years and develops a relationship with Meyokwaiwin, a young Cree woman.
The author has throughly researched the time period and therefore the reader
is painted a realistic portrayal of life in Canada in 1690. Although not the fastest
paced novel, it provides insight into First Nations life and complements the
grade 7 social studies curriculum. Part of series: Great Plains Teen Fiction.
Canadian.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
6-9
Burton,
Wilfred
Dancing in My
Bones
Bunting,
Eve
Cheyenne
Again
Simpson,
Caroll
Beaver, Jan
Silver,
Alfred
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
The First
Beaver
Return to Subject Links
2006
2009
1995
2008
2009
In
Process
49
Author:
Dorris,
Michael
Kirk,
Connie
Anne
Guest,
Jacqueline
Erdrich,
Louise
King,
Thomas
Title:
Morning Girl
Sky Dancers
Belle of
Batoche
The Porcupine
Year
A Coyote
Solstice Tale
Return to Subject Links
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
1992
2004
2004
2008
2009
F Dor
The lyrical language in this book makes it an excellent resource for the Writing
Traits program. The family in this story lives in the Bahamas before
colonization. The story is told in chapters and each chapter from the perspective
of the older sister or younger brother. Aside from different events, it is also a
story about the importance of names. In this story, as in many cultures, a
person will have multiple names as they go through life. The author does a
wonderful job of gently lulling the reader into a false sense of security until the
last chapter, when suddenly and abruptly, colonization begins. POWERFUL
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
4-6
F Kir
Did you know that the Mohawk people were some of the best steelworkers in
North America? And did you know that they made many of the skyscrapers in
New York City? In Sky Dancers we read about one family whose multigenerations are steel workers. While a fictional account, it is an introduction to
what life was like for the people who left their reserves to go to work in the
cities during the 1930s' and 1940's.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
1-6
F Gue
A wonderful historical novel about the famous Battle of Batoche in
Saskatchewan. The story is told from the perspective of the feisty eleven year
old Belle. This is a tale of friendship, courage, family ties and the start of Metis
culture. This would make an excellent novel study for Division 2 or a great read
aloud!
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
4-9
F Erd
The Porcupine Year by Louise Erdrich is a sequel to "The Birchbark House" and
"The Game of Silence." The stories revolve around a young Ojibwe girl and her
people and the joys and challenges that they face as they live through each
season. Another theme of this novel is the impact of European contact. The
stories are told with great insight, humour and sensitivity. This book is ideal to
use in a literature circle or as a read aloud with Grade 4 students who have read
the earlier books.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
4-6
F Kin
This is an Aboriginal Christmas story with a twist! When Coyote invites his
friends to a solstice party, they end up going to a shopping mall. Coyote sees
people selecting large boxes of products so he joins in, only to discover that he
has to pay for these items. He retreats to his cabin, feeling tired, disgusted and
hungry. Coyote ponders whether good will and peace can be bought.
Appropriate for all age groups because it deals with society's consumerism and
waste. It's a short story with vibrant watercolors, expressive language, and
animal main characters set against a wintery and snowy background. Could
even be used as an attention-getter in grade 9 Social Studies (Consumerism)
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
Pre-K-4
(also 9)
50
Author:
Trottier,
Maxine
Olsen
Sylvia
Freeman,
Bill
McLellan,
Joe
Title:
Sister to the
Wolf
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2004
Catching
Spring
Sioux Winter
Nanabosho
Grants a Wish
Return to Subject Links
1999
2000
F Tro
After rescuing and freeing a Pawnee slave, Lesharo, Cecile and her father travel
to Fort Detroit where her father plans to trade furs with the local natives. Cecile
and Lesharo become close and as their relationship blossoms Cecile is forced to
make some hard choices. A wonderful blend of historical fiction and romance.
The book provides a glimpse into the lives of the French as they pushed
westward into Canada and into their relationships with the Aboriginals. An
excellent novel study or read-aloud to accompany historical studies of Canada in
grade 5 and 7.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
4-8
F Ols
It's 1957 and Bobby lives in Tsartlip First Nation, where his family has lived for
generations. He loves his weekend job at the nearby marina. He loves to play
marbles with friends. And he loves being able to give half his weekly earnings to
his mother for grocery money. More than anything Bobby would love to enter
the upcoming fishing derby. But how can he do that with no money, no boat and
no time? A good novel study choice to go with the new social studies
curriculum.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
4-6
F Fre
This is a historical novel depicting the 1870's in Western Canada and the
Northwestern USA. It tells of the adventures of Black Eagle, a 14 year-old
Assiniboine boy and siblings Katie and Jamie who are Black Eagle's friends. The
three venture down to Montana to rescue Black Eagle's mother from a Sioux
tribe. This novel could be used in tandem with a social studies unit on the
extinction of the buffalo, settling of the west and the forced transformation of
the First Nations people of North America.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
3-6
398.2089
McL
In this book a young boy learns to be careful to wish for the right things in life.
The lesson is given a traditional way: through a story told by an Elder. This
would be an excellent resource for those trying to demonstrate how the oral
tradition of storytelling has been used for centuries as a teaching tool. Part of
Series: Nanabosho.
Language
Arts/Social
Studies
4-6
51
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
First Nations Materials Across the Curriculum SCIENCE
Author:
Title:
Date:
Petty, Carolyn Waterdrum
1994
science: science
through
American Indian
arts and culture
Tarbox,
A.D.
Bekkering,
Annalise
McLeod,
Elaine
An Arctic
Tundra Food
Chain
The Northern
Environment
Lessons from
Mother Earth
First Nations
and Native Art
Coloring and
Learning Book
Return to Subject Links
2009
Collection
Description/Review:
Subject
Availability:
507 Pet
Two-hundred exciting, hands-on science/art projects help kids explore fifty science
concepts from life earth, space, physics & the environment. These activities from
many nations invite all children to discover the science & art of the First
Science
Americans, focusing on the people of the Woodlands. Includes legends.
On Order
2010
F McL
1-9
Science
6-9
Science
4-7
(EPS) On this visit to her grandmother, Tess learns about her garden and how to
care for the plants. She realizes that if she knows when they flower, when they
give fruit and when to leave them alone, they will continue to nourish her. She
also learns that it is important for her to learn and remember the knowledge
her grandmother is sharing with her so she can pass the knowledge on to her
children and grandchildren. In this way, she will ensure the continued survival
and growth of the plants of the land. She realizes that her grandmother's
garden includes the woods and meadows beyond her yard. While it is clear that
Tess and her grandmother are Aboriginal, no specific Aboriginal group or First
Nation is identified. Canadian.
Science
K-3
(EPS) Young children will be very engaged by these images. Animals in the air,
on the ground, and in the water are featured in this coloring book. A discussion
about each animal (and how it helps people survive) would help children learn
some information about the role of all animals that help people and in the
process also learn about some important traditional stories in some First
Nations cultures. Part of series: Discover the Animals. Canadian.
Science
K-3
A comprehensive look at Canada’s Northern Environment and the impact of
global warming on the land, animals and people of the Arctic. The author has
included a quiz and glossary for the reader. An informative book on global
warming that will engage the students in discussions about the environment.
Series: Exploring the Canadian Arctic.
2010
2002
(EPS) Information and photographs introduce the reader to the arctic tundra
food chain from the willow to the Polar Bear. The author includes animal facts,
habitat, behaviour, predators, reproduction and the arctic environment.
Recommended for Division 3 due to content. Series: Nature’s Bounty.
Gr.
52
Author:
Belcourt,
Christi
ReedJones,
Carol
Title:
Medicines to
Help Us:
Traditional
Metis Plant
Use
Salmon
Stream
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2007
2000
Main
Library
E 99 M47
B44 2007
597.56
Ree
(EPS) Belcourt's art is fused with research on plants and traditional knowledge
as well as the healing traditions of Metis women. The resource includes
photographs, maps, illustrations and the names of the plants in three Aboriginal
languages -Michif, Cree and Ojibway- as well as English. An essay by Elder Rose
Richardson relates her first-hand experience in using medicinal plants. The
reverse sides of the 8.5 by 11" study prints can be assembled to recreate a 60"
replica of Belcourt's painting. The resource could be used in Social Studies,
Aboriginal Studies, Science, Biology and Art. Canadian.
Science
7-12
(EPS) This cumulative story would be a good addition to a text set on salmon.
Each page gives the reader details as to what the riverbeds in the dim forest
look, feel and sound like. The text is excellent for teaching rhyme and the
illustrations add the details that are commonly found in a more text-heavy
book. Notes at the back give a great deal of factual information on salmon.
Science
K-3
Science
K-6
Davies,
Nicola
Ice Bear
2005
599.786
Dav
(EPS) Did you know that a polar bear can run as fast as a snowmobile? That in
the summer they will even eat grass? Read this book to find out the superb
adaptations that allow this great bear to live in the harshness of the Arctic
World. But also read to enjoy the wonderful illustrations and text. Part of series:
Graphic Guide Adventure
Ellis, Sarah
and David
Suzuki
Salmon Forest
2003
599.786
Dav
(EPS) The interesting title is a clue to the main message in this book: the
relationships amongst living things. As Kate walks with her dad in the woods we
find out why the Pacific rain forest is called the Salmon forest and how the trees
and salmon need each other.
Science
K-3
Alego, an Inuit girl, goes clam digging for supper with her grandmother. The
tide pool is full of life - sea snails, sculpin, a creepy-crawly thing with many
legs, a starfish and lots of clams. When they arrive home, a delicious feast of
clams and hot tea is served. This simple and beautiful story is told in English
and Inuktitut. It includes a glossary and a pictorial map of Baffin Island.
Canadian.
Science
K-3
The Great Bear Rainforest, which stretches up and through coastal northern
British Columbia to the tip of the Alaska Panhandle, is the subject of this
beautiful animal book. For, as the authors argue, without the bears’ (grizzly,
black and spirit) habitat, the “salmon bears” have no future. The subtext
reveals the urgent need to preserve this unique environment, the “great web of
life.” Information about the bears is conveyed by means of a narrative that
takes the reader through a year in the life of a bear. Boxes of information, titled
“Just the Bear Facts”, support the narrative, answering such questions as, “Are
bears true hibernators?” or “How do salmon spawn?” or “How much salmon
does a single bear eat?."
Science
4-8
Teevee,
Ningeokulu
k
Read,
Nicholas
and Ian
McAllister
Alego
The Salmon
Bears: Giants
of the Great
Bear
Rainforest
Return to Subject Links
2009
2010
F Tee
In
Process
53
Author:
Title:
The first
scientists
(DVD)
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
2003
On order
They are the "first scientists" of North America and now, slowly, their magnificent
contributions are being recognized by today's global scientific community. This
groundbreaking documentary explores the science and the people behind some of
the greatest scientific achievements of our time - or any time. Scientific disciplines Science
4-8
like astronomy, ecology, engineering, zoology, and even artificial intelligence have
all been influenced by the knowledge learned by the First Peoples of North
America.
1994
398.209
Includes a teacher’s guide outlining how to use the stories and legends to teach
Cad
about the natural world. See other books in the Keepers series.
Science
1-6
Caduto,
Michael
Keepers of life:
Caduto,
Michael
Keepers of the 1991
animals: native
stories and
wildlife for
children
398.209
Cad
Keepers of the
earth: Native
stories and
environmental
activities for
children
The native
stories from
keepers of life
1999
398.209
Cad
The native
stories from
keepers of the
animals
On the tundra
1992
Ipellie,
Alootook
The Inuit
thought of it:
amazing Arctic
innovations
2007
Kalra, R.M.
Process for developing
a turn-on science
program for Native
Indian students at the
secondary level
Caduto,
Michael
Caduto,
Michael
Caduto,
Michael
Green, Jen
discovering plants
through native stories
and earth activities for
children
1995
2002
398.209
Cad Gr.10
577.586
Gre
971.9 Ipe
507 Kal
London,
Jonathan
Voices of the
wild
1993
McLeod,
Elaine
Lessons from
Mother Earth
2002
Return to Subject Links
398.209
Cad Gr.
10-12
F Lon
F McL
Excellent addition to a grade two science unit on animals. As part of the Keepers
series, Keepers of the Animals focuses on Native American stories as an
introduction to understanding the natural world. All Native North American culture
Science
areas are included. The activities are designed to show students the
interconnectedness of all life and introduce environmental issues facing North
America (Goodminds.com).
Excellent addition to a grade two science unit on animals. As part of the Keepers
series, Keepers of the Animals focuses on Native American stories as an
introduction to understanding the natural world. All Native North American culture
Science
areas are included. The activities are designed to show students the
interconnectedness of all life and introduce environmental issues facing North
America (Goodminds.com).
Focuses on Native American stories as an introduction to understanding the
natural world. The activities are designed to show students the interconnectedness
Science
of all life and introduce environmental issues facing North America
(Goodminds.com). Also a recommended support resource for Aboriginal Studies.
Focuses on Native American stories as an introduction to understanding the
natural world. The activities are designed to show students the interconnectedness
Science
of all life and introduce environmental issues facing North America
(Goodminds.com). Also a recommended support resource for Aboriginal Studies.
Describes the harsh conditions of the tundra, as well as the kinds of plants and
Science
animals that can flourish there. Use in a unit on ecology.
Today's Arctic communities have all the comforts of modern living. Yet the Inuit
survived in this harsh landscape for hundreds of years with nothing but the land
Science
and their own ingenuity. Explore the amazing innovations of traditional Inuit and
how their ideas continue to echo around the world. 32 p.
151 p. Intended for teachers. Ideas to make science content relevant to First
Nations students can be used to infuse Native American culture for all students.
Science
Beautiful picture book uses eloquent text and illustrations to describe animals
from their own perspective. Includes a First Nations observer and shows the
interconnectedness celebrated by First Nations culture. Use in a unit on animals.
A young First Nations girl visits her Grandmother’s garden and learns that all of
nature is a garden. 24 p. picture book.
1-6
1-6
1-6
1-6
1-6
1-4
7-12
Science
1-3
Science
1-3
54
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Author:
Title:
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
Pine, Tillie
The Incas knew 1968
985 Pin
Describes various technologies developed by the Inca and compares them to
innovations used today. Includes Inca words, pronunciations, and simple projects Science
1-3
that illustrate the concept.
Taylor, C.J.
All the stars in 2006
398.2089 A Mohawk author offers seven memorable stories that explain the "skyworld”.
the sky: native
Tay
Illustrations add appeal. No source notes are provided, although each tale is
Science
1-6
stories from the
attributed to a specific tribe. Use for Grade 6 Sky Science.
heavens
Taylor, C.J.
The messenger 1997
398.2089 New Dawn brings an important message to Iceman, one which changes the world
of spring
Tay
from being covered in snow to one bursting forth with the growth of plants and
Science
1-6
awakening hibernating animals. Ojibawa tale.
Vogel, Carole Weather
2001
398.2089 Native American storytellers recount legends related to the sun, wind, clouds.
Garbuny
legends: Native
Vog
Many weather patterns were thought to represent interactions between humans
American lore
and weather spirits, with reactions that ranged from beautiful rainbows to violent Science
4-6
and the science
tornadoes. Great addition to Gr. 5 Weather Watch
of weather
Woods,
Science of the
1999
509.7 Woo includes indigenous cultures of North, Central, and South America from the
Geraldine
early Americas
earliest times to the present, pointing out that most of what is known of their
early sciences comes from archaeological discoveries and oral tradition. Includes
Science
4-8
medicine, mathematics, engineering, and astronomy among various North
American tribes along with the cultures of the Incas, Aztecs, and Mayans. Provides
a general overview. 64 p.
Part of a series by a small Alberta publishing house-awarded Alberta Book Awards
Best Educational Book of the Year 2001 and 2002. The books are interactive,
Nunn, Lori
Magic in the
inviting readers to re-examine the text and pictures for hidden clues about the
and Carol
2002 In Process
Science
2-6
Mountains
rocky mountain wilderness. There is a side bar on each page where a delightful
McTavish
poem compliments the text, adding to the readers growing knowledge of the
creatures represented in the story.
Leighton,
A guide to 20
1983
581.6 Lei
One detailed lesson in a project titled “Nature’s Hidden Gifts”, celebrating First
Anna
plants and their
Nations ways and connection to the land. Saskatchewan Dept. of Education:
Science
4-6
uses by the Cree
http://www.usask.ca/education/ccstu/pdfs/nature%27s%20hidden%20gifts.pdf
Also available as a PDF.
Caduto,
Keepers of the 1999
398.209
As part of the Keepers series, Keepers of the Earth focuses on Native American
Michael
earth: native
Cad
stories as an introduction to understanding the natural world. All Native North
Science, Art,
American stories and
American culture areas are included. The activities are designed to show students
Language
4-8
environmental
the interconnectedness of all life and introduce environmental issues facing North
Arts
activities for children
America (Goodminds.com).
Barrett,
Investigating
1996
970.1 Inv Series: Great Explorations in Math and Science. In these creative and involving
Katharine
artifacts:
activities for grades K-6, children learn the role masks and myths play in Native
making masks,
American and other world cultures, then get a hands-on introduction to how
Science,
K-6
creating myths,
archaeologists and anthropologists investigate the past. In addition to widening
Math
middens.
cultural understanding, these activities enable students to refine science and math
skills.
Arctic: Around
DK Series: 24 Hours. From morning to midnight, these beautifully illustrated
Science,
the Clock with
591.7586
Lynch, Wayne
2007
guides invite readers to spend a day with the animals and plants that inhabit the Social
2-4
the Animals of
Lyn
world's most fascinating environments.
Studies
the Arctic
Return to Subject Links
55
Author:
Macfarlan,
Allan
Flood,
Nancy Bo
Lynch,
Wayne
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Title:
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
Native American 1994
970.1 Con Series: Teacher Created Resources. Collections of worksheet-based activities
Science,
arts and
grouped around themes such as homes and lodges, dance and drama,
Social,
K-2
Cultures.
transportation and trade. Useful sponge activities for multiple subjects. American
Language
(Primary)
Content, but the individuality of specific groups is recognized.
Living like
1999
796.5 Mac Profusely illustrated guide suggests over 1000 activities related to exploration,
Indians: a
voyaging, tracking and trailing. Includes much valuable information on observing
Science,
treasury of
wildlife, cooking, conservation, canoeing, watercraft, water sports, field games,
Social,
4-8
North American
signaling, and storytelling. Activities could complement multiple subjects, but
Language
Indian games,
teachers should be aware of the outdated terminology and tendency to infer that
Arts, Art
and activities
all First Nations groups embraced the same traditions.
The Navajo
Year
2006
On Order
This rollicking walk through the seasons is filled with added cultural details
illustrated by Navajo artist: Billy Whitehorse. Children will delight in paging
through the stories and noting all the changes. Each month is given a two page
spread with the Navajo words for each "moon". Additional notes at the end
gives the pronunciation.
Arctic
Alphabet
1999
591.7586
Lyn
(EPS) Arctic Alphabet is yet another book to add to a text set on alphabet!
Beautiful photographs are used to explore the northern plants and animals from
A to Z. The text is quite dense compared to other alphabet books but lots of
information make it a good resource.
Science/
Language
Arts
Pre-K
When spring arrives and the Great Bear has not awakened from his long sleep,
Short Tail climbs the mountain to find him. He tires and slips into a dream in
which Great Bear reveals a wonderful secret. This beautifully illustrated book
demonstrates the ongoing connection between people and bears. The end of the
book includes the author's explanation of the research that led to this story.
Science/
Language
Arts
1-3
The Messenger of Spring tells how and why the seasons change. It features
beautiful illustrations and excellent description. A well written, timeless tale
from a Chippewa/ Ojibway perspective.
Science/
Language
Arts
K-6
Hobbs, Will
Bear Dream
1997
F Hob
Taylor, C.J.
The
Messenger of
Spring
1997
398.2089
Tay
Sabuda ,
Robert
Dwyer,
Mindy
The Blizzard's
Robe
Aurora: A Tale
of the
Northern
lights
Return to Subject Links
Science/
Language
Arts
Pre-7
1999 On Order
Science/
Arctic pourquoi tale tells of the origin of the Northern Lights. (Recommended by
Language
EPS)
Arts
1-3
1997
In lyrical prose, Mindy Dwyer tells the story of Anna and her long journey
across the tundra. As Anna travels she gathers the colours of light that she
sees: the pink morning, the midday silver and blue, and the twilight green.
Once the sky turns dark she flings the light collection into the sky. As the lights
dance across the sky, Anna's family is able to follow them to reach her. This
book could be used as part of a legend study, with any of the social studies
focus on Inuit culture, or with a study of light and shadows. It includes a small
glossary at the end of the book.
K-6
F Dwy
Science/
Language
Arts/
Social
Studies
56
Author:
LeBox,
Annette
Crawford,
Laura
Title:
Salmon Creek
In Arctic
Waters
Berry,
Susan
Aboriginal
Cultures in
Alberta: Five
Hundred
Generations
Williams,
Judith
Clam Gardens
Bouchard,
David
An Aboriginal
Carol
Return to Subject Links
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
Science/
Art/
Language
Arts
1-6
Science/
Social
Studies
1-3
E78 A34
B48 2004
This is an excellent resource for teachers who need a breadth and depth of
informaiton about Alberta's FNMI peoples in order to enhance their Social
Studies classes and field trips, as well as a handy desk reference for teachers
who want to increase their own knowledge about FNMI peoples, whether or not
they teach any Aboriginal children in their school. There is also a lot of
information that could be used in science. The resources includes information
including: the end of the Ice Age, the use of buffalo jumps, residential schools,
art and science, cultural resurgence and rejuvenation. The information can be
used to enhance almost any grade in Social Studies. High school students
enrolled in Aboriginal Studies may also find this useful, although it is teachers
who are more apt to use the resource.
Science/
Social
Studies/
Art
4-10
2006
On Order
(EPS)This a very interesting scientific, historical and cultural compilation of
information about the clam gardens on the west coast. It would be useful for
studies in permaculture, biology and for all those students who go to Bamfield!
Biology
7-12
2008
811.54
Bou
(EPS)This is Canada's oldest Christmas carol and tells the story of the birth of
an Aboriginal baby Jesus (Deganawideh) The peacemaker was born in Canada's
north not far away in another continent. Children will be engaged in this lyrical,
beautiful story "told" by a First Nations, Metis and Inuit person.
Biology
Pre-12
2002
2007
F Leb
577.7
Cra
(EPS) This is a powerful story about a coho named Sami. We follow her from
birth in a remote creek through her life cycle. It is a stellar combination of fact,
fiction, science and poetry with a hefty dose of ecology. Beautiful watercolours
round out the poetic text.
(EPS) Summary: An arctic adaptation of "This is the house that Jack built".
Follows polar bears, walruses, seals, narwhals and beluga whales as they chase
each other around the ice that floats in the arctic waters. Includes "For Creative
Minds" section. A very good book for young readers. The description of the
animals of the Arctic water set in pattern writing and lyrical structure adds a
flavor to the scientific notion of life-cycle and food types of the Arctic People. A
good fit for Social Studies and Science.
57
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
First Nations Materials Across the Curriculum VARIOUS SUBJECTS
Author:
Title:
Date:
Alberta
Teacher's
Association
Education is our 2006
buffalo: a
HodgesCaballero,
Jane
Children around 1983
the world
Bickel,
Cindy &
Ann
Whitehead
Nagda
teachers' resource for
First Nations, Metis
and Inuit Education in
Alberta
Polar Bear
Math
2008
Math of the
1992
Navajo
Krause,
Multicultural
1983
Marina
mathematics
materials
Perso, Thelma Improving
2003
Aboriginal
numeracy: a book
Collection
Description/Review:
Availability:
In process Published by the ATA, an essential guide for teachings working with First Nations
Also Online Students. Covers the history of Alberta’s peoples as well as present day successes
and challenges.
10 Little
Buffalo
2009
Thomas,
Roger
World music
Kai-Spai
Singers
Songs from the 1975
Blood Reserve
(sound
recording)
Return to Subject Links
1998
Gr.
General
K-12
390.09 Cab Children Around the World contains recipes, activities, stories, games, vocabulary,
maps, and flags from fifty-two countries throughout Asia, Africa, Europe, the
General
Middle East, East Asia, South America, and the Caribbean. Native American
Children are included. The book’s goal is to celebrate diversity.
513.23
Nag
(EPS) The story of two polar bear cubs: Klondike and Snow who were raised by
the Denver Zoo staff. Students will learn about fractions as they read about
Klondike and Snow’s care and growth.
Picture File A poster featuring the geometrical design on a a Navajo rug and highlighting
510.22 Mat mathematical concepts featured..
510 Kra
Several First Nations Projects are included, however they are specific to Southern
United States Groups. Illustrations and text are clear and informative.
513 Per
for education systems,
teachers and teacher
educators
Samatte,
Sandra
Subject
On Order
Focused on the culture and learning styles of Aboriginal Australians, but provides a
model for using understandings Indigenous students bring to the Math Class.
Specific suggestions are provided for teaching key ideas about Number,
Measurement, Space, and Chance and Data.
This entertaining Aboriginal story is filled with computer generated images of 10
little buffalo and their prairie adventure. It is filled with Aboriginal content which
will create many teaching moments. Students will be engaged in counting,
rhyming and naming colours. It is suitable for Kindergarten to Grade 2 but will
attract other readers. Canadian.
EC-6
Math
4-6
Math
4-8
Math
4-8
Math
K-6
Math/
Language
Arts
Pre-K-2
784.16 Tho Introduces some of the instruments used in world music, including the Indian sitar
and tabla, Australian didgeridu and bullroarer, and African kora and sansa. Native Music
American instruments are included. Easy Reader.
HangUp
Pow wow music from the Blood Reserve.
781.6297
Music
Kai
K-1
K-6
58
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Author:
Title:
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
Northern Cree In our drum we 1999
781.6297 Hailing from Saddle Lake, Alberta the Northern Cree Singers have created a sound
Singers
trust (sound
all their own. Grounded deeply in their traditional Cree ways, their singing and
recording)
drumming has carried them to all corners of pow-wow country. This album,
Music
K-9
recorded live at the July-amsh Pow-Wow in Post Falls, Idaho, captures them at the
height of their powers and includes an original song composed for the major
motion picture Grey Owl.
Northern Cree It's time to
1998
781.6297 This traditional dance is a time of friendship, courtship and humor as singers strive
Singers
round dance
to bring couples to the dance floor with the energy of their singing and the
Music
K-9
(sound
infectious swinging rhythms of their hand drums. Performed by one of the
recording)
premiere pow-wow groups of North America, the Northern Cree Singers of Alberta.
Sarcee
Sarcee Broken 1982
HangUp
Pow wow songs from Alberta singers.
Broken Knife Knife singers
781.6297
Music
K-9
Singers
(sound
Sar
recording)
Siksika
Just for old
1998
781.6297 The Siksika Ramblers hail from Siksika Nation, Alberta, a division of the Blackfoot
Ramblers
times' sake:
Sik
Confederacy. Highly regarded throughout Western Canada and the United States,
K-9
traditional pow-wow
the Siksika Ramblers continue the original traditional style of Blackfoot singing and Music
songs (sound
drumming in this vibrant collection of songs.
recording)
Siksika
Straight from
1999
781.6297 The Siksika Nation, a part of the Blackfoot Confederacy, has been home to some
Ramblers
the Rez (sound
Sik
of the best pow-wow singers in North America. This live recording captures a
Music
K-9
recording)
dazzling performance of original Blackfoot style singing and drumming. Recorded
live in Hobbema.
Stoney Park Schemitzun
1998
781.6297 An internationally acclaimed pow-wow group who have appeared on the CD’s of
world:
Sto
Buffy Sainte Marie and Barenaked Ladies. Stoney Park stole the show at the 1995
championship of
Juno awards with their performance.
Music
K-9
song and dance
(sound
recording)
Ench, Rick
North American 2002
781.6297 Looks at several ceremonies and songs, and discusses the types of instruments
Music
3-6
Indian music
Enc
traditionally used by American Indians. 64 pgs.
Hearts of the
1997
781.6297 A compilation of traditional songs in various Aboriginal languages and English.
nations: Aboriginal
Hea
Recorded in Saskatchewan.
Music
4-8
Women in the Studio
(sound recording)
The world's
leading round
dance songs
(sound
recording)
Behrens, June Pow-wow
Black Lodge Kid's pow-wow
Singers
songs (sound
recording)
Burnett, Millie Dance down the
rain, sing up the
corn: American
1996
1983
1996
1975
781.6297
Wor
Round dances are performed as part of the pow-wow and during social occasions.
The infectious, triple beat of the round dance is perfect for bringing couples and
communities together.
Music
K-9
394.26 Beh A beginning reader describing a young girl’s first visit to a pow wow.
Music
781.6297 A fun compilation of twelve modern children’s songs set to a pow wow beat and
sung in pow wow style. First Nations reviewers describe the CD as a playful way Music
to involve children in the pow wow. Find sample sound clips on Amazon.
970.1 Bur Contents are organized into sections: game chants, ceremonial chants, animal
songs and dances, arts and crafts, how to make organic instruments. Each activity
Music
or song is attributed to a specific Aboriginal group.
EC-1
K-6
EC-6
Indian chants and
games for children
Return to Subject Links
59
Author:
Crowfoot
Drummers
Eckels,
Steven
Bouchard,
David and
Pam
Aleekuk
Indian
American
Design
Workshop
Kidd, Bruce
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Title:
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
Crowfoot
1981
HangUp
A Blackfoot drum group from Cluny, Alberta. Cassette recording of five traditional
Drummers (sound
781.6297 songs, four chicken dances, two fancy dances, and a sneak-up.
Music
K-6
recording)
Cro
Music of the
2000
787.87 Eck Published by Mel Bay, a popular music instruction publisher. Contains music for
North American
classically inspired pieces infused with the percussive nature of First Nations
Music
K-9
Indians for
music. Contains a CD of the songs performed.
acoustic guitar
Songs of the
1974
784.751
Music
K-6
Chippewa
Son
Long Powwow
Nights
2010
Dance with
Indian children
1972
Tom Longboat
1992
Kurath,
Gertrude
Dance and song 1968
rituals of Six
Nations Reserve,
Ontario
McCluskey,
Your guide to
1995
Murton
understanding
and enjoying
pow wows
Mitchell, Ryan First Nations,
200?
Metis, and Inuit
games: manual
for physical
education
teachers.
Russell, Anna Game for
1981
Rita
anything: multicultural fames
and activities for
children
Hofsinde,
Indian games
1957
Robert
and crafts
Return to Subject Links
F Bou
This is a a beautiful celebration of life, traditions and culture. With its blending
of art, music and song, it underscores the importance and role of the powwow
in keeping identity and culture alive. Even division 1 students would enjoy this
book as a read aloud by the teacher. A CD is provided with the narration as well
as songs by acclaimed singer Buffy Sainte-Marie. Text is in English and
Mi'kmaq.
793.3 Dan An illustrated book celebrating native dancing. Funded by the American Center for
the Arts of Indian America and designed to increase cross-cultural communication.
796.42 Kid In his biography of Canadian First Nations long-distance runner Tom Longboat,
Bruce Kidd (also a distance runner) gives an insider's view of the life of a great
athlete in the context of Canadian social history. 64 p.
793.3 Kur Choreographic and musical survey of Canadian longhouse customs.
Music/Art/
Social
Studies
Phys. Ed.
K-3
Phys. Ed.
3-6
Phys. Ed.
9-12
793.3197
McC
Detailed introduction to the main dances and traditions of the pow wow. Includes
some information. Produced by the Helena Board of Education and also available
Phys. Ed.
as a PDF. http://opi.mt.gov/pdf/IndianEd/Resources/PowWows.pdf
790.09 Fir
A 30 p. illustrated manual with instructions for introducing traditional Canadian
First Nations games that were culturally important for developing hunting and
survival skills
790.1 Rus
Phys. Ed.
A collection of Native and newcomer Canadian children's activities and games
have been gleaned from various cultural sources for children to benefit from
Alberta's diversity of ethnic groups. First section is all First Nations games; second Phys. Ed.
section is games from other cultures present in Alberta.
970.41 Roy Tells how to play games that Crow, Zuni, Chippewa, Iroquois, and other Indian
boys and girls once played, and includes exact instructions for constructing the
simple equipment necessary to play these games. The author studied the Ojibwa
people and wrote/illustrated fifteen books on Native American culture.
3-9
Phys. Ed.
60
5-8
K-12
K-4
K-6
Author:
Bruchac,
James
Glazier, Ray
Johnson,
Leslie
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Title:
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
Native American 2000
796.08997 An important credo of Native American life states that you can learn while you
games and
Bru
play and play while you learn. Includes stories and activities collected in themes:
Phys. Ed./
stories
Games & Team Sports; the Ball Players in the Sky (Passamaquoddy); Stickball
K-6
health
Bowl Games & Other Games of Chance; Gluskabe Brings the Summer (Abenaki).
Respected Native American author.
Potlatch package 1973
970.3 Gla Features a game introducing this Northwest Coast traditional ceremony.
Phys. Ed./
K-6
(kit): anthropology
Accompanied by a teacher’s guide.
Health
unit
Fancy dance
2003
Zeman,
Brenda
To run with
1988
Longboat:
twelve stories of
Indian athletes
in Canada
Atimoyoo, Pat Nehiyaw ma tow 1980
we na: games
of the Plains
Cree
Batten, Jack The man who
2002
ran faster than
everyone: the
story of Tom
Longboat
Bruchac,
Joseph and
James
Bruchac
Native
American
Games and
Stories
2000
The learning
1999
circle:
classroom
activities on First
Nations in
Canada
Indian charts set
Schultz
Nicholson,
Lorna
Against the
Boards
Return to Subject Links
2005
On order
796.092
Zem
790.1 Neh
796.424
Bat
796.0899
7 Bru
Joe is dancing the Fancy Dance at a powwow for the first time. He is nervous, but Phys. Ed./
once the dance starts he knows just what to do.
Language
Arts
230 p. Brief biographical sketches of twelve First Nations athletes from Canada.
Phys. Ed./
Language
Arts
Published by Saskatchewan’s Curriculum Studies and Research Department in
consultation with Cree Peoples. Preserves the traditional games that kept their
hunting and survival skills sharp.
Tom Longboat from Canada’s Six Nations Peoples entered competitive running in
1905 at the height of a racing craze that had swept North America. As an amateur
Physical
and a professional athlete, Longboat gained the admiration of thousands of racing
Education
fans. He won the Boston Marathon in 1907 in record time and competed in the
1908 Olympics. Engaging true story.
(EPS) A great non-fiction addition to any collection of books by author Joseph
Bruchac. Easy-to-follow directions to traditional games are placed beside a
story that contains the game being played. Each story names the First Nation
from where the story comes. The book is illustrated in black and white.
970.41 Lea Units are designed to give teachers and students simple but effective exercises,
Also online projects and activities to learn more about First Nations. Educators can follow
some of the exercises as stand-alone units on First Nations topics, or integrate
them with existing curricula on Aboriginal peoples. Themes include Storytelling,
Sharing, Seasons, Colours, Games, National Aboriginal Day. (Indian Affairs
Canada)
HangUp
Physical Education and Health
970.41 Roy
F Sch
Physical
Education
(EPS) Against the Boards is a story of a young boy from the Northwest Territories
who moves to Edmonton to play hockey. Because Peter is shy and has trouble
expressing himself, adjusting to life in the big city is challenging both on and off
the ice. This book will appeal to sports lovers and anyone who understands the
difficulties of being shy. Part of series: Sports Stories.
K-3
4-8
K-9
6-10
Physical
Education/
Language
Arts/
Social
Studies
1-12
Physical
Education/
Health
K-6
Physical
Education/
Health
Physical
Education/
Language
Arts
61
4-8
FIRST NATIONS MATERIALS ACROSS THE CURRICULUM: Online under “Handouts/Speci5ic Subjects” at www.uleth.ca/lib -­ choose Curriculum Lab
Collection
Author:
Title:
Date:
Description/Review:
Subject
Gr.
Availability:
Anderson,
North American 2001
796.08997 Weaves together the people, culture, traditions, crafts, food, history, and struggle Physical
Madelyn Klein Indian games
And
for survival of some of the first groups to call America home. Draws from primary Education/
4-9
source materials as well as historical archives.
Social
Studies
The above lists of FNMI Teaching Materials are derived primarily from the Edmonton Public Schools Aboriginal Database. With permission, we
have included the majority of First Nations Titles they recommend, as well as the text of their reviews.
About the Edmonton Public Schools Aboriginal Collection Online
Edmonton Public Schools has created one of the best Canadian bibliographic resources for First Nations titles for children. It includes over 400
titles, specifically linked to the Alberta curriculum. As explained on the site:
“Each book in the Aboriginal Collection has been reviewed at least twice. Once by an educator, and once by a member of the Aboriginal
Community. When possible, the Aboriginal reviewer was a member of the culture represented in the book e.g. Métis, Cree First Nation,
Inuit, Dene”
The emphasis on involving First Nations reviewers and on selecting compelling titles that celebrate Aboriginal diversity in a positive way make
the Aboriginal Collection Online an invaluable tool. Like most Edmonton Public School Products, this database is available to schools as a
subscription service. Faculty of Education students have access through our “Great Sites Link” (Digital Resource Subscriptions). The database
lists their most recent material first, so you can easily check for updates.
Primary Source: Edmonton Public Schools Aboriginal Collection Online
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62