Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success
Grade 6
Selected Bibliography
NB: Older titles that you may find in your library have been included, and a great many newer titles are provided as a guide for purchasing of new
resources. Book types include references, non-fiction, picture books, novels, poetry, alphabet books, folklore and biography. Emphasis has been
placed on Canadian titles where possible. Brackets indicate series. Out-of-print (O/P) titles are often included, since they may be in the library
even if they are not available to purchase. Books constantly go in and out of print, so it’s well worth ordering any title that is shown as O/P.
Title
Silvey, Diane. Kids Book of Aboriginal Peoples in Canada. 2005,
1550749986. Another in the Kids Book series on Canada and Canadian history. With index, timeline and table of contents this title has excellent colour
drawings, accessible format, and lots of sidebars with quick facts and added
interest items. An important book to have, very well researched. Full sections
on people of the Plains, the Arctic and the Sub-arctic. This is the only resource that provides a map of Canada showing the land areas of the various
seven major groups and the only one to list the various peoples of each of the
major areas.
Treuer, Anton, et al. Indian Nations of North America. 2010 National Geographic, 9781426206641. Covers the indigenous people who settled North
America, and their descendants, whose more than 500 tribes range from the
Arctic Circle across the Great Plains to the Eastern Seaboard. Lakota, Cherokee, Navajo, Haida: these groups and many others are profiled in entries, images and maps that highlight each tribe's history and character. Organized
into eight geographical regions, this encyclopedic reference gives details
about key tribes within each area: their beliefs, sustenance, shelter, alliances,
interaction with nature, historic events, and more. This is the definitive, insightful reference on Native Americans. The book's eight Native American
authors include renowned academics, national leaders, lecturers, and authors.
Spalding, Andrea. Secret of the Dance. 2006, 1551433966. A young Aboriginal boy witnesses a secret ceremony (potlatch) after being told that dancing
is forbidden by law. Evocative illustrations capture the west coast landscape
and the sense of secrecy that is central to the story.
Book First
Type Nation
Non
fiction
All
Canadian
Some Suggested
Activities
Curriculum
Links
Use for research and reference.
Read And My Heart Soars
from Spirit of Canada
Activity: Aboriginal Cultural Groups
Activity: Inventions and
Innovations
Social Studies:
People of Canada
Teacher All
Use for teacher reference.
ReferNorth
ence
American
Social Studies
Picture
Book
Social Studies:
Government
abridgement of
democratic
rights
(Pacific Why was the custom of the
Coast) potlatch forbidden by the
government?
Discuss the actions of the
federal government.
What basic democratic
rights were withheld by the
government?
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
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Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
Marsden, John. The Rabbits. 2003. 0-9688768-8-9. This simple but powerful Picture
allegory describes the results of most of the colonizations in the history of
Book
our planet. The spare text and stylized illustrations tell the chilling story of
invasion, environmental destruction and cultural subjugation in simple childlike terms. This is an excellent opener for discussion at many levels.
Bruchac, Joseph. (AA). Thirteen Moons on Turtle's Back. 1997, 9780698115842. The 13 scales on Turtle's shell stand for the 13 cycles of the
moon, each with its own name and a story that relates to the changing seasons.
Love, Ann. Kids Book of the Night Sky. 2004, 978-1553371281. Using a
lively combination of clearly written text, myths and legends, jokes, and activities, the authors present an excellent introduction to the many wonders of
the night sky throughout the seasons. Step-by-step directions for making a
planisphere, sighting tube, star clock, constellation candles and flashcards,
and moon cookies are clearly written and illustrated. The short legends and
myths from a variety of cultures are well told; each story's origins are identified. Includes a story about the medicine wheel.
Ahenakew, Freda. Wisahkecahk Flies to the Moon. 1999, 9780921827573.
Written in Cree and English, this engaging tale follows Wisahkecahk as he
hitches a ride to the moon by grabbing the legs of a crane. When the moon
disappears underneath his feet, Wisahkecahk falls to earth and lands in soft
mud. Rather than rejoice that his life was saved, Wisahkecahk curses the mud
as a wasteland. Sherry Farrell Racette is the Métis artist.
Taylor, C.J. (AA). Little Water and the Gift of the Animals: A Seneca
Legend. 1992, 0887762859. The legend of Little Water illustrates the high
regard held by Native Americans for the natural world around them. Not only
did they rely on certain animals for food, clothing, and shelter, but for their
medicines as well.
Taylor, C,J. (AA). Ghost and the Lone Warrior: An Arapaho Legend.
1991, 0887762646. Crippled in an accident and left behind by his hunting
party, Lone Warrior must overcome hunger, cold, pain, and despair to survive. But most terrifying of all his trials is the appearance of a skeleton-ghost
arisen from the grave. That Lone Warrior can still remember to express his
gratitude to the animal he must kill to survive, and that he does not allow fear
to diminish his dignity, makes him an ideal hero.
Poetry
Use for building appreciation of different perspectives.
What are some of the issues
raised in this book?
Read Encounter.
Activity: Analysis of The
Rabbits
Activity: Respect for Nature
Abenaki Activity: Respect for Nature
Language Arts:
Allegory, Comparing points of
view
Science: Environment
Social Studies:
Power, Authority and Decision
making
Science: Sky
Science
Non fic- Many
tion,
myths,
activities
Read several Aboriginal
stories that explain or deal
with the night sky, such as
Wisahkecahk Flies to the
Moon
Science: Sky
Science
Folktale Cree
(Trickster,
pourquoi)
Activity: Trickster Tales
Activity: Pourquoi Tales
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
Science: Sky
Science
Folktale Seneca
Activity: Respect for Nature.
Science: Trees
and Forests, Environment
Folktale Arapaho Activity: Respect for Na(Quest or
ture
hero)
Activity: Quest or Hero
Tales
Science: Trees
and Forests, Environment
Language Arts:
Comparing stories
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
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Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes. Beaver Steals Fire: A Salish Coyote Story. 2005, 9780803243231. A long time ago fire belonged only to the
animals in the land above, not to those on the earth below. Curlew, keeper of
the sky world, guarded fire and kept it from the earth. Coyote, however, devised a clever plan to steal fire, aided by Grizzly Bear, Wren, Snake, Frog,
Eagle, and Beaver. These brave and resourceful animals raided the land
above and risked all to steal fire from Curlew. Here is an ancient and powerful tale from the Salish people of Montana.
Sterling, Shirley. My Name is Seepeetza. 1992, 978-0888991652. Her name
is Seepeetza, but at the Indian residential school in British Columbia, she is
called Martha. She hates her white name, but she is beaten if she talks "Indian." Her long hair is cut off. Other students pick on her because she has green
eyes and looks white. It won the Sheila A. Egoff Children's Book Prize. It’s
an autobiographical novel written in the form of a diary when Seepeetza was
in grade 6 in the 1950’s. Few books detail the residential school experience.
Picture
Book
(Quest)
Lronde, Sandra, ed. Sky Woman: Indigenous Women Who Have Shaped,
Moved or Inspired Us, 2005, 9781894778190. When Sky Woman fell from
the upper world through a hole in the sky, earth was born…. This collection
of poetry, short stories and visual arts honours the legacy of Sky Woman.
Nearly 40 writers and visual artists are represented from 22 Indigenous nations across Canada, the US, Mexico, Pacific Islands and Japan, including
Buffy Sainte,Marie, Jeannette Armstrong, Daphne Odjig and Lee Maracle.
Loyie, Larry. As Long as the Rivers Flow: A Last Summer Before Residential School. 2002, 0-8899-473-7. A short novel in picture book style
about Larry, who at 10 was living with his family near Slave Lake in Alberta
when he learned that he must go away to school. Excellent illustrations. An
epilogue, complete with photos, show the residential school situation as Lawrence lived it from age 10 –14.
Collection of
stories
and
artwork
Salish
(Montana)
Novel
Many
Non fic- Cree
tion Autobiographical
novel
Loyie, Larry. Goodbye Buffalo Bay. Includes anecdotes about Larry’s life at Non fic- Cree
residential school, his life after he leaves the school, and a history of residen- tion Autial schools in Canada. Follows As Long as the Rivers Flow.
tobiographical
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
Activity: Quest or Hero
Tales
Compare with Little Badger and the Fire Spirit
Activity: Pourquoi and
Creation Tales
Language Arts:
comparing stories, literature
analysis
What basic democratic
rights were withheld by the
government?
Find out why the government sent Aboriginal children to residential schools.
Have a debate with government officials on one side
and the Aboriginal parents
on the other.
Activity: Biography Project
Activity: Biography Project
Social Studies:
Government
abridgement of
democratic
rights
Language Arts:
novel study, biography research
Language Arts:
biography research
What basic democratic
Social Studies:
rights were withheld by the Government
government?
abridgement of
Check out the information
democratic
about residential schools in rights
Language Arts:
Story of the Blackfoot
novel study, biPeople.
Activity: Biography Proography research
ject
What basic democratic
Social Studies:
rights were withheld by the Government
government?
abridgement of
What has been the impact of democratic
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Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
novel
Loyie, Larry, When the Spirits Dance. 2006, 1894778405. Recounts Larry’s Autobi- Cree
childhood during the World War II years. Prequel to As Long as the Rivers ographical, very
Flow.
short
Freed, Don. Sasquatch Exterminator. 1999, 0920915418. Book is based on
a successful music education project intended to encourage Aboriginal children to write and perform community-based and culturally-enhanced songs.
Picture (Cree)
Book
and Music CD
Bouchard, David. (Métis Author). Drum Calls Softly. 2008, 9780889954212. Poetry
Accompanied by a CD featuring the music of the Northern Cree Singers. The and
drums sound in the night and the dancers join hands. Enjoy the beauty of
Song
Aboriginal culture in words, paintings and song.
Cree
Walsh, Alice. Pomiuk, Prince of the North. The year is 1893 in Chicago,
and the most fabulous fair the world has ever seen becomes the home for a
young Labrador Inuit boy called Pomiuk. Although he captures the hearts of
millions of people who come to see “Eskimo village,” and he sees many
wonders, he would rather be home. He eventually is able to return, but not
before he has been crippled for life. Based on a true story.
Mini
Novel
Inuit
Campbell, Nicola. (Métis Author). Shi-shi-etko. 2005, 0888996594. In four
short days, Shi-shi-etko will be forced to leave her family and all that is familiar to her to attend residential school. This is a moving and poetic account
of one child's final moments spent with her family and the beauty of the
world around her. In the presence of her family, Shi-shi-etko carefully gathers valuable teachings and memories for safekeeping.
Campbell, Nicola. (Métis Author). Shin-chi’s Canoe. 2008, 9780888998576.
When they arrive at school, Shi-shi-etko reminds Shinchi, her six-year-old
brother, that they can only use their English names and that they can't speak
Picture
Book
Picture
Book
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
residential schools on Aboriginal people?
Research residential
schools.
Activity: Biography Project
Describe how Larry’s life in
the 1940’s was a mix of
contemporary European
lifestyle and traditional
Cree lifestyle.
Activity: Biography Project
Listen for enjoyment and
experience Aboriginal-style
culture and rhythms.
Play CD from Drum Calls
Softly.
Use to help develop Aboriginal perspective and awareness.
Play CD from Sasquatch
Exterminator.
Discuss the ethics behind
actions of various people in
the story.
Research other cases where
Aboriginal people were
kidnapped.
Activity: Biography Project
Talk about residential
schools and what the impact has been on Aboriginal
people.
rights
Language Arts:
novel study, biography research
Language Arts:
novel study, biography research
Social Studies:
Alberta people
Music
Social Studies:
People of Canada
Music
Social Studies:
Government
abridgement of
democratic
rights
Language Arts:
biography research
Social Studies:
Government
abridgement of
democratic
rights
Talk about residential
Social Studies:
schools and what the imGovernment
pact has been on Aboriginal abridgement of
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Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
to each other. For Shinchi, life becomes an endless cycle of church mass,
school, work, and hunger. He finds solace at the river, with his cedar canoe, a
gift from his father, and dreaming of the day when the salmon return to the
river - a sign that it’s almost time to return home. This is a story about a devastating chapter in First Nations history.
Kalman, Bobbie. Nations of the Eastern Great Lakes, 2005, 0778704734.
Non
With good format and excellent illustrations, table of contents, index & glos- fiction
sary, this book provides some details about the Iroquois Confederacy and the
roles of elder and younger brothers.
people.
Iroquois
and
others
Tehanetorens. Legends of the Iroquois. (1998). A master storyteller in the
Mohawk tradition tells stories of his people. The legends remain true to the
native culture and teach basic lessons of humanity.
Folktale Iros
quois
Matthews, Caitlin. Barefoot Book of Princesses.1997, 9781846862397. Includes CD. This is a collection of princess stories from many different cultures, including The Horned Snake’s Wife, from the Iroquois. Its theme –
the girl who marries a man with both and human and an animal shape – is
common to all countries of the world. Stories of an alliance between a snake
and a girl are common in the creation myths of North America.
McDermott, Gerald. Arrow to the Sun. 1977, 978-0140502114. This intricately illustrated quest story is a story type common to the mythic legends of
many peoples. Typically in hero stories, the hero ventures forth from the everyday world into a supernatural world where victory over obstacles must be
won, and then returns with gifts for his people. In this circular journey, the
Boy must go on a quest to find himself and in so doing, brings back to his
people both new spiritual vitality and physical security. “…the book is superb for its power and abstract beauty.”1
Swanson, Bruce, Gray Wolf's Search. 2007, 978-0977918317. His uncle, the
clan shaman, tells Gray Wolf that his future success depends on completing
an important task--he must find a very important person and get to know him
well. When he returns to his clan, an older and wiser Gray Wolf takes the
talking stick from his uncle and shares his new wisdom. Beautifully illustrated.
San Souci, Robert. Legend of Scarface: A Blackfeet Indian Tale. 1978,
0385132476. This is a Blackfeet legend in which a young brave travels to the
Folktale Iroquois
1
Folktale Pueblo
(Quest)
democratic
rights
Use several sources to find Social Studies:
Iroquois Conout more about the Irofederacy
quois Confederacy.
Compare it to the Alberta
Blackfoot Confederacy.
Document some of the cul- Social Studies:
ture, values, and wisdom of the Mohawk
the Aboriginal people.
(Iroquois) peoChoose one story and exple
plain the lesson it was designed to teach.
Find other stories with char- Language Arts:
acters that change shape or
looks, such as Beauty and
the Beast, and document
their countries of origin.
Activity: Quest or Hero
Tales
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
Picture (North- Activity: Quest or Hero
Book
west
Tales
(Quest) Coast)
Social Studies:
People of Canada
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
Language Arts:
Literature analy-
Folktale Black(Quest) foot
Activity: Quest or Hero
Tales
Peterson, Andrea. Second Look: Native Americans in Children's Books. 2007, pp. 223
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
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Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
land of the Sun to ask for the hand of his beloved. Dated illustrations and
less-than-ideal page design, but there are very few Blackfoot folktales available.
Oliviero, Jamie (AA) & Brent Morrisseau (CAA). Fish Skin. 1993.
1562824015. A small Cree boy saves his people from dying of thirst when
the Great Spirit gives him a magical fish skin.
McLellan, Joseph. Nanabosho Steals Fire. 1990, 0921827059. An old man
who had fire kept it for himself and was always watching to make sure no
one stole it. Nanabosho changed into a rabbit, fooled the old man’s daughters
and got them to take him into their wigwam. There, he let the fire catch onto
his fur and ran out and back to his people and thereby bought them fire.
That’s why how the people got fire and that’s why the rabbit is brown in
summer – to remind the people how they got fire.
Van Laan, Nancy. Rainbow Crow, 1989, 0679819428. This is a pourquoi
story of how the crow came to have black feathers. When winter comes and
the animals become cold, crow goes on a quest to seek the assistance of the
Great Spirit--who provides the gift of fire, but not without consequences to
the bird’s plumage.
McDermott, Gerald. Raven: A Trickster Tale from the Pacific Northwest.
2001, 978-0152024499. Raven feels sorry for the people living in the gloomy
cold, so he flies to the house of the Sky Chief in search of light and warmth.
To get inside, Raven pulls a shape-shifting trick that allows him to be born to
the god's daughter.
Cameron, Anne. How Raven Freed the Moon. 1985, 0920080677. This is
both a trickster story and a pourquoi story. Raven wants the Moon, and although she gets it from the old fisherwoman’s cedar chest, she can’t carry it,
and so throws it up into the sky. Black and white illustrations.
(Siksika)
Folktale Cree
(Hero)
Folktale
(trickster,
pourquoi,
hero)
Folktale
(Quest,
sis
Activity: Quest or Hero
Tales
Ojibwa Compare this story with
Rainbow Crow.
Activity: Quest or Hero
Tales
Activity: Trickster Tales
Activity: Pourquoi Tales
Lenape Activity: Quest or Hero
Tales
pourquoi)
Folktale Pacific
(Trickster, Northquest)
west
Folktale North(Trickster) west
Coast
Dembicki, Matt. Trickster: Native American Tales: A Graphic Collection. 2010, 978-1555917241. In Trickster, 21 Native American tales are
adapted into graphic novel form. Each story is written by a different Native
American storyteller who worked closely with a selected illustrator, a combination that gives each tale a unique and powerful voice and look. Stories
range from serious and dramatic to funny and sometimes downright fiendish.
Stott, Jon. A Book of Tricksters. 2010, 9781926613697. A wonderful collection of read-aloud tales from all over the world. Great to compare and contrast even though illustrations are few and one colour.
Folktale
Bruchac, Joseph & Bruchac, James. (AA), Girl Who Helped Thunder and
Story Col- Many,
Compare with How Raven
Freed the Moon.
Activity: Quest or Hero
Tales
Activity: Trickster Tales
Activity: Trickster Tales
Many
Activity: Trickster Tales
Many
Read for enjoyment.
Compare and contrast some
of the stories with other
trickster stories.
Activity: Trickster Tales
How is Old Man and the
(trickster),
graphic
novel
format
Folktale
Collection,
trickster
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
Language Arts:
comparing stories, literature
analysis
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
Science: Sky
Science
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
Science: Sky
Science
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
Language Arts:
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Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
other Native American Folktales. 2008, 9781402732638. Presents 24 stories from various Native American groups, including Blackfoot and Inuit.
The Blackfoot story, Old Man and the Rolling Rock, is about Old Man, a
favourite trickster character in the tales of the Blackfoot. Old Man sometimes
changes the world around him, but other times he gets into trouble. In stories
like this one, he is a perfect example of how not to behave. The Inuit story is
Blind Boy and the Loon. Excellent illustrations. For a variation on the Rolling Rock story, go to Legend of Napi and the Rock at http://canadian-firstnations.suite101.com/article.cfm/the_legend_of_napi_and_the_rock In this
funny version, the rock is the Okotoks Erratic and it’s after Old Man!
Campbell, Maria. Little Badger and the Fire Spirit. Excellent legend of the
Alberta Cree people about how they got fire. If this is in your library, protect
it, as it is old and long out of print. Full text available at:
http://www.sasked.gov.sk.ca/docs/artsed/g2arts_ed/drama/appendix.html
Lopez, Barry. Crow and Weasel. 1998, 978-0374416133. Long ago, when
people and animals spoke the same language, two young men left their tribe
to make an adventurous trek through the wilderness, into the unknown northland. Set in the mythic past and inspired by the traditions of the North American Plains people, this fable of self-discovery follows Crow and Weasel as
they face unfamiliar perils on a quest for knowledge and wisdom. Conquering their innermost fears, the two heroes come of age and learn more than
they ever could have imagined--about humanity's relationship to the land, the
importance of respecting other peoples and giving thanks, and even the very
nature of friendship itself.
Harper, Jo. Legend of Mexicatl. 2000, 978-1890515218. In this picture book,
the boy Mexicatl can hardly imagine being chosen to lead his people – but
one day the Morning Star tells him to search for “a place of harmony” and
shows him the sacred image of the eagle and snake. Mexicatl leads his people
on a long journey and finally finds the place for his people. After Mexicatl
learns the hard lessons of leadership his people finally prosper. Richly illustrated, this story is drawn from ancient Aztec history
Bruchac, Joseph. Children of the Longhouse. 1996, 140385045. An in-depth
look at the long ago way of life of the Mohawks, told through the eyes of a
young boy. Themes of justice, democracy, respect and an underlying spirituality are conveyed. Tells the story of the Great League of Peace of the Iroquois nations.
Lenski, Lois. Indian Captive: The Story of Mary Jemison. 1941, 1995,
978-0064461627. This classic frontier adventure tells the real life story of
Mary Jemison, who was captured in a raid as young girl and raised amongst
the Seneca Indians. Meticulously researched and illustrated with many de-
lection including Rolling Rock a perfect ex(Trickster, Blackample of how not to bepourquoi, foot and have?
Inuit
quest)
Activity: Quest or Hero
Tales
Read the story How the
Buffalo Came to Be, and
list and describe all the uses
the people had for buffalo.
comparing stories, literature
analysis
Folktale Cree
(Quest)
Activity: Quest or Hero
Tales
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
Picture
Book,
very
long
Activity: Quest or Hero
Tales
Activity: Respect for Nature
Language Arts:
Literature analysis, story comparison
Social Studies:
Aboriginal people
Folktale (Aztec)
(Quest)
Activity: Quest or Hero
Tales
Language Arts:
Literature analysis, story comparison
Novel
Iroquois
Novel study or read aloud.
Activity: Respect for Nature
Novel
Iroquois
Novel study or read aloud.
Social Studies:
Iroquois Confederacy
Science: Trees
and Forests
Social Studies:
Iroquois Confederacy
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
7
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
tailed drawings, this novel offers an exceptionally vivid and personal portrait
of Native American life and customs. Some reviews consider this book to be
problematic, but a careful unbiased reading shows it to be accurate and realistic.
Tehanetorens. (AA). Wampum Belts of the Iroquois. 1999, 157067082X.
Many of the wampum belts commemorate stages in the peace process that
culminated in the Iroquois Confederacy.
Fullman, Joe. Native North Americans: Dress, eat, write and play just like
the Native North Americans. 2010, 9781595662453. Make a dream catcher, design a Navajo sand painting, create a story on buffalo hide, challenge
your friends to a game of Chance, and make a teepee. Informative text and
activities help bring Aboriginal civilizations to life.
Tehanetorens. (AA). Legends of the Iroquois. 1998, 1570670560. This is a
collection of stories and writings of Tehanetorens, a storyteller in the Mohawk tradition. These ancient stories are presented in pictograph form with
English translation, and carry us into the culture of the Six Nations Confederacy. The text is supported with illustrations by the Iroquois artist
Kahionhes, son of Tehanetorens.
Bjornlund, Lydia. Iroquois. 2000. 9781560066187.
Nonfiction
Iroquois
Use for research
Nonfiction
Many
Make a wampum belt, pg. 5. Social Studies:
Iroquois Confederacy
Folklore Iroquois
Social Studies:
Iroquois Confederacy
Nonfiction
Wyborny, Shelia. Iroquois. 2005, 9780737726275. (North American Indians)
Includes the people, their land, their daily lives, beliefs and festivals, traders,
conflicts and the modern world.
St. Lawrence, Genevieve. Iroquois and Their History. 2005.
9780756512729. Describes the history, culture, customs, leaders, and life
today for the Iroquois Native Americans.
Wilcox, Charlotte. Iroquois. 2007, 9780822526377. Coverage includes early
histories, traditional lifestyles, housing, crafts, and foods, as well as the
groups' interaction with European settlers and the resulting settlements.
Kerk, Connie-Ann. Mohawks of North America. 2002. 9780822548539.
Nonfiction
Sonneborn, Liz. Iroquois. 2002, 9780531162293.
Nonfiction
Carew-Miller, Anna. Native American Confederacies. 2004,
9781590841280. Describes some of the confederacies formed among different Native American peoples over the past 500 years and discusses the reasons behind these alliances. Includes Iroquois and Blackfoot Confederacies.
Nonfiction
Nonfiction
Nonfiction
Nonfiction
Social Studies
Iroquois
Document some of the prac- Social Studies:
tices of the Iroquois people. Iroquois Confederacy
IroDocument some of the prac- Social Studies:
quois
tices of the Iroquois people. Iroquois Confederacy
IroUse for research.
Social Studies:
quois
Iroquois Confederacy
IroDocument some of the prac- Social Studies:
quois
tices of the Iroquois people. Iroquois Confederacy
MoDocument some of the prac- Social Studies:
hawk
tices of the Mohawk peoIroquois Conple.
federacy
IroDocument practices of the
Social Studies:
quois
Iroquois people.
Iroquois Confederacy
Several, Document some of the
Social Studies:
includdemocratic practices of the Iroquois Coning Iro- Aboriginal people.
federacy
quois
Compare the Iroquois and
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
8
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
and
Blackfoot
Story of the Blackfoot People. 2001, 1552633632. For the first time in histo- Nonry, the Blackfoot people share their culture, beliefs and traditions with the
fiction
rest of the world. Includes way of life, Blackfoot World, how they lived together, the land, other people, buffalo days. Lots of photos, maps, historic
information. Done in collaboration with the Glenbow Museum.
Kalman, Bobbie and, Walker, Niki. Native North American Wisdom and
Gifts. (Native Nations of North America) 2006, 0-7787-0384-3. Fairly easy
reading makes this series a good choice. There are lots of photos and drawings, and many sidebars to break up information. Index, glossary, table of
contents, frequent subheads and terms in bold all contribute to ease of reading. In addition to information on the Iroquois Confederacy, this resource
puts it into the context of Aboriginal culture, values, and wisdom.
Bouchard, David. (Métis Author). Seven Sacred Teachings of White Buffalo Calf Woman. 2009, 9780978432720. Accompanied by a multilingual
DVD, text in English and Ojibwe. This volume is a message about traditional
values that link all Métis, Aboriginal and Inuit people together. These teachings are seen in school communities coast to coast across North America.
They are: Humility, Honesty, Respect, Courage, Wisdom, Truth and Love.
Describes actions to help achieve these values.
Bouchard, David. (Métis Author). I Am Raven: A Story of Discovery. 2007,
9780978432706. The chief knew he would soon go to his ancestors, so he
created a new totem pole so his descendants would remember him. Many
animals tried to get him to make their images on the totem pole. Which animal succeeded? What animal is really the chief’s totem?
George, Thomas. Raven and the First People: Legends of the Northwest
Coast. 2009, 9781926696089. Over 25 stories from the Canadian pacific
Northwest. No illustrations.
Nonfiction
Nonfiction
Picture
Book
Blackfoot Confederacies.
What proposals for change
would you make to our
government based on what
you have found out about
Native American confederacies?
Black- List and describe all the
foot
uses the Blackfoot people
had for buffalo.
Tell ways in which the people lived in harmony with
the land.
Document some of the culture, values, and wisdom of
the Blackfoot people. In
what ways were democratic
rights circumvented?
Many
Document some of the culture, values, and wisdom of
the Aboriginal people.
Activity: Respect for Nature
Activity: Inventions and
Innovations
Ojibwe Describe the traditional
values of the Aboriginal
people.
(North
West
Coast)
What is your totem?
Folktale (North Select several Raven stories
Collec- Pacific from different sources to
tion
Coast) analyze and compare. Are
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
Science: Environment
Social Studies:
Democracy
Social Studies:
Iroquois Confederacy
Science: Trees
and Forests
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
9
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
they hero, trickster, or
pourquoi stories?
Ayre, Robert. Sketco the Raven. 2009, 9781443100441. Through his cunFolktale (North Select several Raven stories
ning, trickery, and transformations, Sketco brings the world the moon, the
Collection Pacific from different sources to
sun, and the stars. He gives birds their colours, gives man fire, creates the
(pourquoi, Coast) analyze and compare. Are
tides, brings food, and much more. No illustrations. Like a chapter book,
trickster,
they hero, trickster, or
each chapter telling another episode. Episodes stand alone, but the whole
hero)
pourquoi stories?
works as a longer story.
Activity: Trickster Tales
Activity: Pourquoi and
Creation Tales
Activity: Quest or Hero
Tales
Zeman-Spaleny, Linda. Lord of the Sky. 2009, 9780887768965. Extraordi- Folktale (North Activity: Quest or Hero
narily beautiful illustrations accompany this creation folktale about the Great (Hero)
Pacific Tales
Raven, who brought the sun back to the people of the North Pacific Coast.
Coast)
Bouchard, David (Métis Author), Illustrator: Allan Sapp, (AA). Nokum is my Picture
Cree
Teacher. 2006, 9780889953673. An exploration of aboriginal life through
Book
dialog between a boy and his grandmother, his Nokum. He questions why he Poetry
should learn to read and wonders if knowledge of the world outside their reserve has value. Nokum knows that reading opens up a world of possibilities,
even though she can’t read. The boy comes to his own conclusion that she is
right and he will read to learn more. The text is in both English and Cree and
is accompanied by a CD recording of the author’s reading with original music performed by the Northern Cree Singers. Allan Sapp provides the paintings of First Nations community life.
Mikaelsen, Ben, Touching Spirit Bear. 2002, 9780380805600. Cole is a 15- Novel
Tlingit Read for enjoyment.
year-old con and has been in trouble most of his life. One day, he beats a fellow student so badly the boy suffers permanent damage. This novel is the
story of Cole's redemption and it is also a look at an unusual justice system.
Cole's parole officer arranges for Cole to face "Circle Justice," a Native
American tradition. Cole ends up banished for one year to a remote Alaskan
island, where he meets up with a mysterious, legendary white bear. Mauled
almost to death, Cole begins the transition from anger to humility. Sequel:
Ghost of Spirit Bear.
Trottier, Maxine. Blood Upon Our Land: The Northwest Resistance Diary Novel Métis
Research the political and
of Josephine Bouvier, Batoche, District of Saskatchewan, 1885. (Dear
social issues behind this
Canada). 2009, 9780545999052. This novel is by one of Canada’s outstandrebellion.
ing writers of historical materials for students.
Have a debate with the Métis on one side and the government of Canada on the
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
Language Arts:
Reading
Social Studies:
Canadian history
10
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
other.
Stenhouse, Ted. Across the Steel River. 2001, 978-1553370154. Friendship Novel
and tolerance are the twin themes of this story that displays the casual prejudice and injustice toward Native Americans in the small Canadian town of
Grayson in 1952. Will Samson and his Indian friend, Arthur, discover the
nearly lifeless body of Yellowfly, a resident of the nearby reservation: he has
been beaten, though the local Mountie says that he was probably hit by a
train. Will and Arthur set out to learn who is responsible for Yellowfly's assault, and when Will learns who is involved, he must risk his own safety to
see that justice is done. As the action progresses, Will and Arthur tangle with
their attitudes toward each other, with Will realizing how his own unthinking
responses to Arthur generate friction in an otherwise genuine friendship. A
thoughtful, discerning picture of the difficulties of standing up for what is
right.
Creech, Sharon. Walk Two Moons. 1995, 2003, 978-0330397834. Thirteen- Novel
year-old Salamanca Tree Hiddle's mother has disappeared. While tracing her
steps on a car trip from Ohio to Idaho with her grandparents, Salamanca tells
a story to pass the time about a friend named Phoebe Winterbottom whose
mother vanished and who received secret messages after her disappearance.
One of them read, "Don't judge a man until you have walked two moons in
his moccasins." Despite her father's warning that she is "fishing in the air,"
Salamanca hopes to bring her home. By drawing strength from her Native
American ancestry, she is able to face the truth about her mother. Walk Two
Moons won the 1995 Newbery Medal.
Longfellow, Henry Wadsworth (author), Susan Jeffers, (Illustrator). HiawaPoetry
tha. 1996, 978-0140558821. Verses from Longfellow's poem depict the boyhood of the Iroquois, Hiawatha, who made the Iroquois Confederacy work.
Not historically accurate.
Blackfoot Talk about the racism ap-
Johnson, Michael. Tribes of the Iroquois Confederacy. 2003,
9781841764900. Includes origins of the Confederacy, European contact and
its consequences, 18th Century wars, disintegration, Iroquois culture. Both
black and white and colour illustrations. Well-researched, good primary material.
Levine, Ellen. …If You Lived with the Iroquois. 1998, 0590674455. This
book tells what it was like to grow up in an Iroquois family of hundreds of
years ago. Includes how the League was founded, the Great Law of peace,
government setup, rules of behaviour, members of the League and more.
Kirk, Connie Ann. (AA). Sky Dancers. 2004, 1-58430-162-7. This authentic
parent in this story.
Social Studies:
Residential
Schools, racism
This book by a very accomplished author provides a
quality story about Aboriginal social problems and
provides lots of discussion
opportunities for a class.
Social Studies:
Aboriginal social problems
Iroquois
Read for enjoyment.
Nonfiction
Iroquois
Use for research.
Analyze the structure and
functions of the Iroquois
Confederacy.
Language Arts:
Classic Literature
Social Studies:
Iroquois Confederacy
Social Studies:
Iroquois Confederacy
Nonfiction
Iroquois
Picture
Mo-
Use for research.
Analyze the structure and
functions of the Iroquois
Confederacy.
Read for enjoyment.
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
Social Studies:
Iroquois Confederacy
Social Studies:
11
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
glimpse of 20th Century Mohawk life tells the story of the Mohawk (Iroquois) native people in New York who were largely responsible for the steel
construction of the skyscrapers and bridges in the state. This story tells of one
father who helped construct the Empire State Building, the pride of Grandfather (a retired steelworker), and the son who dreams of following in their
footsteps. The Mohawk are famous for their balance and courage in working
high above ground and "steelworking" is a family business that dates back
several generations.
Eyvindson, Peter. Missing Sun. 1993, 9780132873017. Set in Inuvik
(N.W.T.), this story deals with seasons and sunshine. Emily's mother is a meteorologist and offers a factual explanation as to why the land is dark for a
time, while Emily's friend Josie claims that it is the tricky Raven who steals
the sun and hides it. When Emily gets tired of living in darkness, she shouts
at the Raven to bring the sun back. The sun finally does shine again. Illustrations are less than great quality, but the story is good and is a rare topic for a
story.
Vogel, Carole G. Weather Legends: Native American Lore and the Science of Weather. 2001, 978-0761319009. This unusual book explores various weather/climate phenomena from the viewpoint of the legends of various
Native American peoples and modern meteorologists.
Karst, Amanda. Edible and Medicinal Plants of Canada. 2009,
9781551055725. Includes nearly 600 trees, shrubs, herbs, grasses with separate section for poisonous plants and gives detailed information about the
historical use of the plants by Aboriginal people, both for food and medicine.
The book is well illustrated and has a very usable format.
Cherry, Lynn. Shaman's Apprentice. 2001, 0152024867. For thousands of
years, in the jungles of the Amazon, shamans have passed their wisdom of
the medicinal values of rain forest plants from one generation to the next.
The Shaman's Apprentice tells the story of a Tirio Indian boy who dreams of
one day being the tribal shaman, and how he and his people learn the importance of their own knowledge about the healing properties of the rain for-
book
hawk
(Iroquois)
What contributions have
other Aboriginal people
made to Canada and the
United States?
Activity: Biography Project
Picture
Book
Inuit
Nonfiction
Read the legends Sun and
Seasons. What is the relationship between sun and
seasons?
Many
Identify some of the plants
from the book in areas near
your home.
Prepare an illustrated class
booklet or field guide describing medicinal plants
that might have been used
by Alberta Aboriginal people.
Why is it important to preserve the knowledge of edible and medicinal plants?
Read Shaman’s Apprentice.
(Amazon) Why are the rain forest
plants important?
Why is it important to preserve the knowledge of edible and medicinal plants?
Nonfiction
Picture
Book
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
Iroquois people
in the 20th Century
Have students brainstorm
Science: Sky
what it would be like to live Science
in perpetual darkness for
several weeks. And what
would it be like to have
daylight all the time for
several weeks?
Science: Sky
Science
Science: Trees
and Forests
Science: Trees
and Forests
12
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
est.
Cherry, Lynn. Great Kapok Tree. 2001, 978-0152005207. This is a mythlike
story that explains the ecological importance of saving the rain forests. A
man falls asleep while chopping down a kapok tree. The forest's inhabitants-snakes, butterflies, a jaguar, and finally a child--each whisper in his ear about
the terrible consequences of living in "a world without trees" or beauty, about
the interconnectedness of all living things. When the man awakens and sees
all the extraordinary creatures around him, he leaves his ax and "walks out of
the rain forest." A map showing the earth's endangered forests and the creatures that dwell within ends the book, which, like the rain forests themselves,
is "wondrous and rare."
Himmelman, John. Pipaluk and the Whales. 2002, 978-0792282174. Based
on an actual event, this moving story tells how a young Chukchi girl named
Pipaluk saves the lives of thousands of beluga whales trapped in a channel
with ice closing in around them in the Russian Arctic. When Pipa and her
father discover the whales, their entire village comes together in a valiant
effort to rescue the creatures. At the end of the book, an author’s note describes the real-life event that inspired this story. This book is included because of its unusual topic.
Auger, Dale. (AA). Mwakwa Talks to the Loon: A Cree Story for Children. 2006, 978-1894974042. The story shares an experience of a young
man who becomes very proud and boastful of his excellent hunting skills, as
he gets caught up in the adoration, attention and pride his people show him.
In soaking up all this attention he loses his great hunting skills and must
humble himself to the Elders in order to get back his gift. Kayas (k-eye-ass)
has to talk to makwa (mah-quh) the Loon to gain back his powers. Kayas
through this experience learns what it means to be humble, kind and respectful. Includes some text in Cree.
Ballantyne, Adam. Legend of the Mimigwesseos. 1988, 0921254806. Cree
legends told by an old Cree storyteller in 1937. O/P
Kusugak, Michael. Northern Lights: The Soccer Trails, 1999, 1-55037338-2. This beautifully-illustrated story tells the Inuit beliefs about the
Northern Lights through the eyes of a young girl.
Kalman, Bobbie. Life in a Longhouse Village. 2001, 9780778704621. The
people who lived in the northeastern woodlands belonged to many nations
and spoke many languages including Iroquoian and Algonkian. Life in a
Longhouse Village was a way of life all of the nations shared.
Picture
Book
Yanom Activity: Respect for Naamo
ture
Science: Trees
and Forests,
Conservation
and Stewardship
Picture
Book
Chukchi
(Russia)
Why is it important to save
whales? What event is the
basis for this story? Can
you find out about similar
stories? Find out more
about the actual events of
this story.
Science: Conservation and
Stewardship
Picture
Book
Cree
What lesson is taught in this Science: Trees
story?
and Forests
Oral
story
collection
Picture
Book
Northern
Cree
Describe some of the beliefs Social Studies:
of the Northern Cree.
Northern Cree
Nonfiction
Inuit
Tell about the Inuit beliefs
Science: Sky
about the Northern Lights.
Science
Compare with modern scientific explanations.
Iroquois, Document some of the cul- Social Studies:
Algonkian ture, values, and wisdom of Iroquois Conthe Iroquois people.
federacy
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
13
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
Hehner, Barbara. Spirit of Canada: Canada’s Story in Legends, Fiction,
Poems, and Songs, 2001, 0773762000. A marvelous must-have anthology of
stories, poems and songs taken from the body of children’s literature and
spanning Canadian history, and including many well-loved stories and poems. Lots of colour illustrations. Includes the following Aboriginal stories:
Taylor, C.J. How Two-Feather was Saved from Loneliness
Bruchac, Joseph. Manabozho and the Maple Trees
Fraser, Frances. How the Thunder Made Horses
Skogan, Joan. Scannah and the Beautiful Woman
Clark, Joan. Thrand and Abidith
Hehner, Barbara. Village that Stretched from Sea to Sea
Georgekish, Geordie, et al. Chikabash and the Strangers
De Brébeuf, Jean. Huron Carol
Mon Canot
Hearne, Samuel. Coppermine Feast
Manson, Ainslie. Long Journey of “Our Dog”
Johnson, Pauline. Train Dogs
Ipellie, Alootook. I Shall Wait and Wait
Whelan, Stella. Ballad of Mary March
Shinguacouse. Letter from Shinguacouse
Dunn, Willie. Ballad of Crowfoot
Morrissey, Kim. Address to the Jury
Riel, Louis. Song of Louis Riel
Strange, Ken. Windigo Spirit
Kiakshuk. Giant Bear
Grey Owl. Big Small and Little Small
Keeshig-Tobias, Lenore. Porcupine
George, Chief Dan. And My Heart Soars
Zola, Meguido. Canadian Indian Place Names
Goble, Paul. Buffalo Woman. 1984, 0689711093. A young hunter marries a
female buffalo in the form of a beautiful maiden, but when his people reject
her he must pass several tests before being allowed to join the buffalo nation.
Bruchac, Joseph. Native Stories From Keepers of Life. 1995
Anthology - po-
Many
ems,
stories,
songs
Activity: Bannock in Stories
Activity: Quest or Hero
Tales
Folktale General Activity: Quest or Hero
(Quest) (Plains) Tales
Story
Many
collection
Caduto, Michael J. and Bruchac, Joseph. Native Stories From Keepers of
Story
Many
the Earth. 1991, 0920079768. A common thread through these stories is the collection
view of the world as a family and humans are entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining the natural balance.
Caduto, Michael J. and Bruchac, Joseph. Keepers of the Earth: Native
Story
Many
American Stories and Environmental Activities for Children. 1991, 978- collection
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
Activity: Respect for Nature
Read Gluscabi and the
Wind Eagle. What is the
importance of wind and
weather?
Activity: Respect for Nature
Social Studies:
Injustices in Canadian history
Language Arts:
Literature Analysis
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
Science: Trees
and Forests
Science: Trees
and Forests
Science: Trees
and Forests
14
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
1555913854. This flagship book in the Keepers of the Earth series is an envi- and
ronmental classic for teaching children to respect the Earth.
Teacher
Resource
Caduto, Michael J. Keepers of Life: Discovering Plants through Native
Story
Many
American Stories and Earth Activities for Children. 1998, 2007,
collection
9781897252192. Keepers of Life uses stories and myths from diverse Native and
North American cultural groups to introduce a variety of topics relating inTeacher
teractions with the natural world. It includes information on plant groups,
Resource
explanations of biological processes, and discussions of environmental concerns. This information-packed resource is imbued with the spirit of "Responsible Stewardship," a philosophy of empathy for all living things, and
consideration of the effects of our actions on future generations.
Cherry, Lynne. A River Ran Wild. 1992, 0152163727. The story of a river,
Nonfrom the first people thousands of years ago, how people came to depend on
fiction
it, used it, abused it, polluted it, and finally cleaned it. Beautifully illustrated,
and powerfully presented, his book is a classic environmental story.
Cherry, Lynn. Shaman's Apprentice. 2001, 0152024867. For thousands of
NonTirio
years, in the jungles of the Amazon, shamans have passed their wisdom of
fiction (Amazon)
the medicinal values of rain forest plants from one generation to the next.
The Shaman's Apprentice tells the story of a Tirio Indian boy who dreams of
one day being the tribal shaman, and how he and his people learn the importance of their own knowledge about the healing properties of the rain forest.
Cameron, Anne. Spider Woman. 1988, 0920080731. When the world begins Folktale Northto slip from its place, it takes Spider Woman, with help from the tallest tree
west
to save the world.
Coast
Bouchard, David. Elders are Watching. 1990, 0-9693485-3-3. This is a po- Poetry
em about man’s negative influence on nature. The powerful words are on one
page with the facing page a dramatic illustration by a famous native artist.
The words tell us how man has been overly self- indulgent for much too long
and it is time to change to save the environment. It’s a simple and powerful
look into the Aboriginals’ relationship with Nature.
Bourdeau Waboose, Jan. (AA). Karen Reczuch, Illustrator (AI). Morning on
the Lake. 1997, 1-55074-373-2. In this picture book, the author uses her
Ojibway background to tell a series of three linked stories about a boy and
his grandfather who spend a day with nature. The author shows the importance of learning the ways of living in harmony with nature and the wise,
Picture
Book
Ojibway
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
Activity: Respect for Nature
Science: Trees
and Forests
Describe actions taken by
your school or family that
show concern and care for
the environment.
Activity: Respect for Nature.
Activity: Respect for Nature.
Social Studies:
Environment
Science: Trees
and Forests
Activity: Respect for Nature
Science: Trees
and Forests
Science: Trees
and Forests
Discuss the Aboriginals’
Science: Trees
relationship with Nature.
and Forests
What is the reason for the
strong respect that Aboriginal people show for nature?
Activity: Respect for Nature
Activity: Respect for NaScience: Trees
and Forests
ture.
15
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
patient and loving ways of Mishomis (grandfather). Reinforces the Aboriginal view of the link between nature and people.
Baylor, Byrd. I’m in Charge of Celebrations. 1986, 0684185792. A dweller
in the desert celebrates a triple rainbow, a chance encounter with a coyote,
and other wonders of the wilderness.
Caduto, Michael J. Keepers of the Night: Native American Stories and
Nocturnal Activities for Children, 1994, 978-1555911775. Caduto and
Bruchac use stories from various American Indian tribes as the basis for activities and lessons about the nighttime world. Written as a guide for teachers
and outdoor education leaders working with children in a nature setting, the
guide gives detailed instructions for preparing, conducting, and evaluating a
variety of activities that focus on the nocturnal habits of animals, on astronomy and nighttime weather, and on campfire activities, such as storytelling,
dances, and games. Aspects of many American Indian tribal practices are
woven throughout the text.
Goble, Paul. Star Boy. 1983, 1991, 0689714998. Relates the Blackfoot legend in which Star Boy gains the Sun's forgiveness for his mother's disobedience and is allowed to return to the Sky World. He brings back the sacred
knowledge of the Sun Dance to his people.
Lewis, Paul Owen. (AA). Storm Boy. 1997, 1-55285-268-7. After a violent
sea storm, a young Haida boy washes ashore in an unfamiliar village inhabited by strange colossal beings. He is made welcome with a potlatch, told stories and taught songs and dances before he returns home to teach these to his
own people. Although he thought he was away for only one night, he was
actually gone a full year in this magical land. Extensive notes at the back of
this book explain the importance of a quest story and analyze the contents of
this book.
Lewis, Paul Owen. Frog Girl. 1997, 2001, 1582460485. When the frogs suddenly vanish from the lake behind her village, a young Native American girl
is led to the frog village underneath the lake and learns what she must do to
save both the frogs and her own people. Lewis has created his own story,
drawing on the legends and motifs of the Northwest Coast peoples. Extensive
notes at the back of this book explain the importance of a quest story and analyze the contents of this book. The story itself is spare and simple with a
great deal of information conveyed in the pictures.
Yahgulanaas, Michael. Little Hummingbird. 2010, 978-1553655336. This
book is based on a South American indigenous story about a courageous
hummingbird who defies fear and expectations in her attempt to save the forest from fire. The illustrated story is supplemented by a natural and cultural
Prose
poetry
(Desert) Activity: Respect for Nature.
Story
Many
collection
and
Teacher
Resource
Read Creation of the Moon
from Keepers of the Night.
Also read Coyote Sings to
the Moon, Star Boy, and
Skysisters. What was the
original purpose of these
stories?
Activity: Respect for Nature
Folktale Black- Activity: Quest or Hero
(Quest) foot
Tales
(Siksika)
Science: Trees
and Forests
Science: Sky
Science
Science: Trees
and Forests
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
Science: Sky
Science
Language Arts:
Literature analysis
Folktale Haida
(Hero)
Activity: Quest or Hero
Tales
Folktale Haida
(Hero) Tlingit
Activity: Quest or Hero
Language Arts:
Literature analyTales
Compare this folktale with
sis
Scannah and the Beautiful Woman from Spirit
of Canada and with
Goose Girl.
Picture
Book
(Hero)
South
Activity: Quest or Hero
Ameri- Tales
can alti- Activity: Respect for Naplano
ture
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
Science: Trees
and Forests
Language Arts:
comparing sto16
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
history of hummingbirds. The artwork by internationally renowned Haida
artist and author complements the optimistic tale that encourages everyone to
take responsibility for their home and the planet.
Waboose, Jan Bourdeau, Skysisters. 2000, 1-55074-697-9. This is a modern Picture
story of two young Ojibwa sisters as they set off across the frozen north
Book
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 rabbit, deer and coyote. Most importantly, the story is about
their experience of the northern lights – their sky sisters.
Eyvindson, Peter. Jen and the Great One. 1990, 0921827199. An environPicture
mental story that presents a realistic depiction of contemporary First Peoples. Book
Jen hears the tree and brings her friends to help plant the tree’s seeds.
ries, literature
analysis
Ojibwa Read for enjoyment.
What is winter like in the
northern part of Canada?
What causes the northern
lights?
Auger, Dale. (AA). Mwakwa Talks to the Loon: A Cree Story for Children. 2006, 978-1894974042. The story shares an experience of a young
man who becomes very proud and boastful of his excellent hunting skills, as
he gets caught up in the adoration, attention and pride his people show him.
In soaking up all this attention he loses his great hunting skills and must
humble himself to the Elders in order to get back his gift. Kayas (k-eye-ass)
has to talk to makwa (mah-quh) the Loon to gain back his powers. Kayas
through this experience learns what it means to be humble, kind and respectful. Includes some text in Cree.
Taylor C.J. Peace Walker: The Legend of Hiawatha and Tekanawita,
9780887765476, 2004. When the five Iroquois nations began warring with
each other after generations of peace, it was Hiawatha who defied the chief
Atotarho. Hiawatha worked with Tekanawita to bring about the Great Peace
and to establish the Iroquois Confederacy.
Duden, Jane. The Iroquois: The Six Nations Confederacy (American Indian
Nations). 2000, 978-0736848176. Includes family life, history, foods, government, culture, and daily life. Information clearly presented. Includes color
photos, reproductions, and map.
Picture
Book
Cree
Nonfiction
Iroquois
Nonfiction
Iroquois
McCurdy, Michael. An Algonquian Year: A Year According to the Full
Moon, 2000, 0618007059. As the moon changes, so do the seasons and the
pattern of life for the Northern Algonquians in pre-colonial North America.
With text and black and white scratchboard illustrations, we see the busy cy-
Nonfiction
Algonquian
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
Science: Sky
Science
Why is it important to con- Science: Trees
serve trees?
and Forests
What are some of the reasons for the strong respect
that Aboriginal people have
for the environment?
Activity: Respect for Nature.
Discuss the Aboriginals’
Science: Trees
relationship with Nature.
and Forests
Activity: Respect for Nature.
To what extent did the deci- Social Studies:
sion-making process within Iroquois Conthe Iroquois Confederacy
federacy
reflect democratic ideals of
equity and fairness?
To what extent did the deci- Social Studies:
sion-making process of the Iroquois ConIroquois Confederacy refederacy
flect democratic ideals of
equity and fairness?
Model for writing.
Science: EnviMake a T-chart to compare
ronment
traditional Algonquian life
with our lives today.
17
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
cle of work, play and survival, and the dignity of people who live in harmony
with nature.
McLeod, Elaine. (AI). Lessons from Mother Earth. 2010, 9780888998323.
Tess has visited her grandmother many times without really being aware of
the garden. But today they step outside the door and Tess learns that all of
nature can be a garden. And if you take care of the plants that are growing, if
you learn about them — understanding when they flower, when they give
fruit, and when to leave them alone — you will always find something to
nourish you.
Turnbull, Andy. By Truck To The North: My Arctic Adventure. 1998, 155037-550-4. Andy rides along in a big rig carrying produce from the B.C.
lower mainland to the high arctic. Traveling through the winter forest and
across the arctic circle onto a road of ice, we learn to appreciate the hazards
and beauty of working in the harsh winter environment. Sidebars include
photos and descriptions of the truck interior and the sights of the journey.
Well-marked, clear maps show the journey throughout the book. A musthave book.
Mowat, Farley, Lost in the Barrens. 1956, 9780771066818. Although this
book uses the term “Eskimo’” it has to be understood in terms of the times in
which the book was written. Jamie and his Cree friend, Awasin, are lost in
the barrens of northern Canada and must somehow survive the winter. Provides a sensitive look at First Nations people and their traditions and customs. A classic survival story with lots of boy appeal.
Trottier, Maxine. Dreamstones. 1999, 0-7737-3191-1. A captain's son becomes separated from his icebound ship in the Arctic and is rescued by a
mysterious man who turns out to be an Inukshuk briefly come alive as a man.
Picture
Book
What are some of the ways
in which the Algonquians
lived in harmony with nature?
Activity: Respect for Nature
(probably Activity: Respect for Nain the
ture
Yukon)
Nonfiction
(Adventure)
Novel
Cree
(Adventure, survival)
Picture
Book
Science: Trees
and Forests, Environment
Describe a selected area of
Northern Canada.
Language Arts:
Writing
Describe a selected area of
Northern Canada.
Activity: Survival and Adventure Stories
Language Arts:
Writing
Inuit
Make an Inuksuk.
Social Studies:
Describe some Inuit cusInuit
toms and lifestyle.
Activity: Survival and Adventure Stories
MissisauCrook, Connie Brummel. Maple Moon. 1997, 0-7737-3017-6. This story
Picture
Compare with Hidden Buf- Language Arts:
ga
gives one version of how the Native people discovered maple syrup. A young Book
falo and Return of the
Compare with
disabled boy watches a squirrel sipping something from the tree he is resting (survival)
Buffaloes: a Plains Indian other folktales
beside. The boy catches some of the liquid flowing from the tree and brings it
about survival.
story about famine and
back to camp to show his parents the "sweet water." His story is not believed
renewal of the Earth.
until an elder shows faith in his words and they all watch the "sweet water"
Make a retrieval matrix.
dripping from the trees. A very useful note by the author on the history of
Activity: Survival and Adthis gift from the Native people is included. This is a thoughtful story of how
venture Stories
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
18
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
a sometimes-ridiculed boy helped his people stave off starvation.
Blondin, John. Old Man with the Otter Medicine. 2007, 9781894778497. It (SurDene
is winter and the people are starving. There are no fish. The people must get
vival)
help from the medicine man. Here is a story about an important part of the
history and culture of the Dene people.
Wheeler, Jordan, and Dennis Jackson. (AA). Christmas at Wapos Bay.
Novel
Cree
2005, 1-55050-324-3. "From Many Peoples" is a series of novels published
(Survivto celebrate the extraordinary stories of the many ordinary people who have
al)
shaped the multicultural nature of the western provinces. Christmas at
Wapos Bay was written by two Saskatchewan writers with extensive ties to
the First Nations Cree people. From family stories they have written this story of three Cree city children and their families who visit their grandparents
at a remote location for Christmas. In setting out to hunt with their Mushom,
the children come to depend on the Cree traditions they have learned from
their elders for survival in the bush, and they are able to find the food that
will keep their families together for Christmas. Easy reading level.
Goble, Paul. Gift of the Sacred Dog. 1980, 0020432801. In response to a
Folktale Plains
boy’s prayer for help for his hungry people, the Great Spirit sends the gift of (survival)
the Sacred Dogs, horses, which help the tribe to hunt for buffalo.
Martin, Jacqueline Briggs. Lamp, the Ice, and the Boat Called Fish, 2001,
Picture Inuit
0-618-00341-X. Based on the true story of the boat “Fish,” part of the CanaBook
dian Arctic Expedition in 1913, this beautiful book details the struggle to
(survival)
survive in the high arctic. It demonstrates the knowledge needed for survival
in the far north and the skills the Inupiaq had for survival. The explorers take
along an Inupiaq family for their survival skills and knowledge. The family
provides hunting skills, sewing, snow houses, and much care and wisdom for
the expedition. Beautifully illustrated.
Ipellie, Alootook. The Inuit Thought of It: Amazing Arctic Innovations.
Offers a well-researched, well-planned and very interesting resource. Organized under such headings as food, shelter, clothing, medicine, dog sleds,
Nonfiction
Inuit
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
Activity: Survival and Adventure Stories
Language Arts:
Writing
Activity: Survival and Adventure Stories
Social Studies:
People of Canada
Compare this folktale with
the Blackfoot version How
the Thunder Made Horses
from Spirit of Canada.
What differences did having
horses make for the Aboriginal people?
Activity: Survival and Adventure Stories
Use the illustrations as
models for student art.
List and explain things the
Inupiaq people knew that
helped them survive in the
arctic. What is unique about
their way of life?
How did the Inuit adapt
their daily life to the changing weather?
Activity: Survival and Adventure Stories
Activity: Aboriginal Cultural Groups
Activity: Traditional
Language Arts:
Compare with
other folktales.
Art:
Social Studies:
People of Canada
Science: Weather
Watch
Science: Evidence and Investigation
19
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
fun, hunting and the kayak.
Kalman, Bobbie. Life in a Plains Camp. (Native Nations of North America). Non2001, 0-7787-0461-0. Portrays the various aspects of life of the Plains people fiction
with their own customs and traditions. Looks at hunting, clothing, food,
family, sports and the roles and responsibilities of various individuals. The
illustrations in the book are well done. Gives general information but also
specific details about selected groups.
Kalman, Bobbie. Nations of the Northwest Coast. With index, glossary,
Non
table of contents, appealing format, and large, bright illustrations, here is an
fiction
historical look at the people and their culture. Topics covered include the distinct customs, cultures, and beliefs of the various nations; dwellings used in
different seasons and locales; fishing and the use of coastal plants and animals; traditional handicrafts, including carving and weaving; the organization
of families, clans, and moieties.
Munro, Ron. Canada’s First Peoples, 2005, 1550414437. An excellent reNon
source – includes eastern, plains, west coast and arctic people. Canada, A
fiction
People’s History series. Very well illustrated, excellent format.
Kalman, Bobbie. Nations of the Plains. 2001, 0778703681. Introduces students to the customs, languages, and traditional ways of the lives of several
native nations that lived on the Great Plains of North America, including the
Blackfoot.
Non
fiction
Plains
Northwest
Coast
Homes
Activity: Inventions and
Innovations
Use for research.
Activity: Traditional
Homes
Activity: Inventions and
Innovations
Science: Evidence and Investigation
Activity: Aboriginal Cultural Groups
Activity: Traditional
Homes
Activity: Inventions and
Innovations
Science: Evidence and Investigation
Use for research and reference.
Activity: Aboriginal Cultural Groups
Activity: Inventions and
Innovations
Many, Activity: Aboriginal Culinclud- tural Groups
ing
Activity: Inventions and
Black- Innovations
foot
Many
Use for research.
Activity: Traditional
Homes
Activity: Inventions and
Innovations
Science: Evidence and Investigation
Many
Science: Evidence and Investigation
Kalman, Bobbie. Native Homes. (Native Nations of North America). 2001,
NonScience: Evi978-0778704638. This book looks at many of the dwellings built by the nafiction
dence and Investive nations across the continent. Detailed illustrations show the exteriors,
tigation
interiors, and way of life in each lodge. Discover thatch homes and pueblos
of the Southwest, plank houses of the Northwest Coast, wigwams, longhouses, tipis, earth lodges, pit homes, and igloos.
Goble, Paul. Return of the Buffaloes: a Plains Indian story about famine Folktale Plains
Compare with Hidden Buf- Language Arts:
and renewal of the Earth. 1996, 079222714X. This folktale is based on a
(survival) (Lakota) falo and Maple Moon.
Compare with
Lakota myth in which a mysterious woman returns the buffalo and the other
Make a retrieval matrix.
other folktales
animals to the Indian people.
Activity: Survival and Ad- about survival.
venture Stories
Houston, James. Tikta’liktak: an Inuit Legend. 1989, 1965, 0152877487.
Novel – Inuit
Activity: Survival and Ad- Language Arts:
Here’s a great little survival story about a boy who is trapped on an ice flow
short
Writing
venture Stories
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
20
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
and has to rescue himself. This story is very useful in the social studies but
(Surmay use the term “Eskimo,” which the teacher should avoid using. It has
vival)
black and white illustrations but they are striking. A classic survival story.
Wiebe, Rudy. Michael Lonechild, illus. (AI). Hidden Buffalo, 2003, 0Folktale Cree
88995-285-X. This book tells the story of the dependency of the Cree people (survival)
on the herds of buffalo. The beautiful illustrations provide rich detail of Cree
life in the 19th century in Alberta. One of the few really good books about
Alberta Aboriginal people.
Stephenson, Wendy. Idaa Trail: In the Steps of Our Ancestors. 2005, 088899-576-8. Modern children of Dogrib ancestry take a summer canoe trip
following the Idaa Trail, a trade route that the Dogrib people traveled. Told
as a story, with lots of good colour illustrations, this story provides many anecdotes about various sites along the way. The trip is a hard one and the children learn a lot about hardship and perseverance. Interesting and appealing an excellent and well-researched book. A short chapter book. Go to the website for an online experience traveling the Idaa Trail:
http://www.lessonsfromtheland.ca
Trottier, Maxine. Sister to the Wolf. 2004, 155337519X. When Cécile, who
is French, sees Lesharo, who is Pawnee, being mistreated by his owner, she
purchases him. She and her father give him his freedom, and they become
fast friends. They try to live in the world of the French fur trade, but they are
torn between two worlds. A superb novel, well worth doing as a read-aloud
novel study.
Spalding, Andrea. Finders Keepers. 1995, 2008, 978-1550028287. While
walking through a neighbourhood field in Alberta, Danny finds an 8,000year-old arrowhead. His friend Joshua, who lives on the Piegan reserve at
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, joins him on buffalo hunts, powwows, archaeological digs, and a break-in at the local museum. In the process Danny
learns about history and begins to overcome his dyslexia. Here’s a very sensitive portrayal of the Piegan people of southern Alberta in a novel that is
fairly easy reading with strong boy appeal.
Guest, Jacqueline. (AA). Free Throw. 1999, 1-55028-664-1. When Matthew
Eagletail's mother remarries, he must adjust to an instant family, a new home,
and a new school. He also has to give up playing for his beloved Tsuu T'ina
Novel
(Adventure)
Novel
Novel
Novel
Research the ways the Cree Language Arts:
people depended on the
Comparing stobuffalo.
ries.
Compare with other
folktales about survival.
Compare with Return of
the Buffaloes: a Plains
Indian story about famine
and renewal of the Earth.
Activity: Survival and Adventure Stories
Dogrib Describe a selected area of
Language Arts:
(Dene) Northern Canada.
Writing
Pawnee
Novel study or read aloud.
Language Arts:
Read for enjoyment – a
Detecting bias
great read!
Social Studies:
Compare and contrast the
Power, Authoriattitudes of various groups
ty and Decision
toward Aboriginal people.
Making
Piegan This book would make a
Social Studies:
(Black- great novel study for Social People of Alberfoot)
Studies, easy reading for
ta and Aborigigrade 6.
nal rights
Language Arts:
Novel Study
Tsuu
T'ina
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
Read for enjoyment.
Health and Life
Skills: Develop
effective interper21
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
sonal skills that
demonstrate responsibility, respect and caring
in order to establish and maintain
healthy interactions.
Warriors, the basketball team on the reserve. This well-written story will
touch the lives of many young readers as they follow Matthew's struggles to
adjust. A short chapter book, an easy read.
Guest, Jacqueline. (AA). Goal in Sight. 2002, 781550 287806. Assigned to
community service after assaulting a fellow hockey player, Aiden finds himself helping Eric. Eric is also a hockey player, but one with a difference. Eric
is blind. Through a growing friendship, and with the help of his probation
officer, Aiden learns that there are many ways to deal with problems. The
cycle of violence is broken. A short chapter book, an easy read.
Guest, Jacqueline. (AA). Hat Trick. 1997, 1-55028-600-5. This 96-page
chapter book is a contemporary novel about a young 12-year-old girl who
shares the struggles, feelings and challenges in her life. She lives with her
Métis dad and spends weekends with her First Nations mother. She shares
her feelings about changes and her methods for coping. She hangs on to tradition while living in today's world. Her story demonstrates courage, determination and positive self-concept. The story shows how tradition can continue in today's changing world. A short chapter book, an easy read.
Guest, Jacqueline. (AA). Lightning Rider. 1997, 1-555028-720-6. Shares
some of the struggles and challenges that aboriginal young people face within mainstream society when encountering stereotypical views held by people.
A very good read for students who are examining change, challenges, perspectives and conflicts. A short chapter book, an easy read.
Guest, Jacqueline. (AA). Rink Rivals. 2001, 1-55028-744-3. Short novel
about twin boys whose lives are altered when the family moves from Northern Quebec to Calgary. The two boys have quite different futures, one in
sports, the other in music. But, by making several bad choices to gain acceptance and to impress a girl, the twins eventually have to learn to rely on
each other and see that they just need to be themselves. An easy read.
Guest, Jacqueline. (AA). Soccer Star. 2003, 1-55028-788-5. Set in Alberta,
this story profiles a young part-Inuit girl's experience in a school in the Edmonton military base. The story is about a 13-year old girl learning to fit into
a new school culture and meet the expectations of her family and new
friends. Students who have had to move to new schools and make new
friends will relate to Samantha's challenges. An easy read.
Guest, Jacqueline. (AA). Triple Threat. 1999, 1-55028-682-X. This is a basketball story set in the Calgary area. Matthew Eagletail is a member of a
Novel
Read for enjoyment.
Health and Life
Skills: (as
above)
Read for enjoyment.
Health and Life
Skills: (as
above)
Novel
Read for enjoyment.
Health and Life
Skills: (as
above)
Novel
Read for enjoyment.
Health and Life
Skills: (as
above)
Read for enjoyment.
Health and Life
Skills: (as
above)
Read for enjoyment.
Health and Life
Skills: (as
Novel
Novel
Métis
Inuit
Novel
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
22
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
blended, multi-cultural family. His friend, John from San Francisco, comes to
visit for the summer and coaches Matt's basketball team. John is in a wheelchair. Issues of blended families, handicaps, fair play, bullying and Native/non-Native relationships are woven into this story with sensitivity and
humour. A short chapter book, an easy read.
Loyie, Larry. Gathering Tree. 2006, 978-1894778428. The topic is HIV with
a First Nations storyline.
Rivera, Raquel. Arctic Adventures: Tales from the Lives of Inuit Artists.
2007, 9780888997142. Stories from the lives of four Inuit artists provide an
introduction to Inuit culture past and present. Includes photos of the artists at
work and reproductions of their artwork. An excellent book.
Florence, Melanie. Jordin Tootoo: The highs and lows in the journey of
the first Inuit to play in the NHL. 2010, 9781552775318. Hockey is a relatively new sport in Canada's North. It wasn't until 2003 that Jordin Kudluk
"Thunder" Tootoo became the first Inuk to play in an NHL game. Although
hockey is a rough sport to begin with, Jordin Tootoo is known for having to
"fight his way through." Jordin has had more than his fair share of fights -both on and off the ice. He's had to overcome the social problems that are
associated with the North, fight his way through the discrimination and culture shock he encountered after leaving Rankin Inlet and moving to Alberta
to play in the Juniors, and see his way through the grief of losing his NHLbound older brother and hero, Terence Tootoo, to suicide in 2002. This new
biography explores the struggles and accomplishments of one of the most
recognized role models for young Aboriginal and Inuit people today.
Wallace, Mary. Inuksuk Journey: An Artist at the Top of the World.
2008, 9781897349267. Documents Wallace’s journey through the Arctic and
shows her artwork done during her search for the Inuksuk.
January, Brandan. Native American Art and Culture. 2005, 1410921182.
Very good illustration of Aboriginal art, more text than usual, very well
done, covers many different art forms.
January, Brendan. Native Americans (History in Art). 2005, 1410920410.
Historical perspective on many Aboriginal art forms. Well illustrated.
Simpson, Caroll. First Mosquito. 2010, 978-1926613673. Yax is too young
to accompany his father on a trading expedition and must stay at home with
his mother and his younger sister. Disappointed, he goes off to practice his
spear-throwing. When he loses his spear, he thinks he is old enough to go
into the forest to look for it, even though he has been warned about the dangers that await children who wander into the woods alone. The story tells
how the first mosquito came to be and introduces readers to a world of
above)
Picture
Book
Short
Inuit
Stories,
Art
Novel
Inuit
Nonfiction,
Art
Nonfiction,
Art
Nonfiction,
Art
Picture
Book
(Pourquoi)
Inuit
Health
Activity: Biography project.
Activity: Biography project
Art: Painting
Language Arts:
biography research
Language Arts:
biography research
Art: Painting
Inuksuks
Many
Select an art form to try.
Art
Many
Select an art form to try.
Art
Northwest
Coast
Activity: Pourquoi and
Creation Tales
Try some illustrations of
other Northwest Coast stories, based on the artwork
style in First Mosquito.
Write and illustrate your
Language Arts:
Comparing stories, literature
analysis
Art
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
23
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
Lightning Snakes, Woodworm, Creek Woman, Mouse Woman, Two-Headed
Serpents, the Wild Man of the Forest and a Bloodsucking Monster.
Patent, Dorothy, The Buffalo and the Indians: A Shared Destiny. 2006,
Non9780618485703. Countless buffalo once roamed the plains of North America fiction
and for at least 10,000 years, First Nations people depended upon them for
survival. To them, the buffalo was sacred, and it was treated with great respect. Then Europeans slaughtered the buffalo almost to extinction and broke
the First Nations culture. Today, both First Nations cultures and the buffalo
herds are being revived.
Landon, Rocky. A Native American Thought of It: Amazing Inventions
and Innovations. 2008, 9781554511549. Includes a map of the traditional
territories of the various Native American groups. This book shows a great
deal of respect for Native Americans and offers a well-researched, wellplanned and very interesting resource. Organized under such headings as
food, shelter, transportation, medicine, communication, fun, hunting and fishing.
Love, Ann and Jane Drake, Kids Book of the Far North, 2000, 1550745638.
The Far North is home to many plants, animals and people who have developed remarkable ways of adapting to one of the harshest climates on Earth.
The book examines the region’s fascinating history, modern life, and fragile
ecosystem with facts, stories, legends, illustrations, timelines and maps.
Nelson, S.D. (AA). Black Elk’s Vision: A Lakota Story. 2010,
9780810983991. This unique perspective on American history is included
here because it is just that – quite unique. With beautiful paintings and drawing and historical photographs, this picture book tells the true story of Black
Elk using historical documents and Black Elk’s own words. This is the story
of the battles of the Little Bighorn, Wounded Knee, Buffalo Bill’s Wild West
show, the European invasion, and the demise of the buffalo all from Black
Elk’s Aboriginal perspective and experience. Black Elk lived from 1863 to
1950.
Erdrich, Lise. Sacagawea. 2003, 9780876146460. A biography of the Shoshone girl Sacagawea from age 11 when she was kidnapped by the Hitdatsa
to the end of her journey with Lewis and Clark, plus speculation about her
later life.
Bruchac, Joseph. (AA). Boy Called Slow: The True Story of Sitting Bull.
1994, 069811616X. Being named Slow and growing up in the shadow of a
great warrior hardly dwarfed the prospects of this hero: he grew up to be Sitting Bull.
own pourquoi story.
Many
What are some of the views Science: Enviof nature held by First Naronment and
tions people?
Conservation
What is the reason for the
strong respect that Aboriginal people show for nature?
Activity: Respect for Nature
Activity: Inventions and
Social Studies:
Evidence and
Innovations
Investigation
Nonfiction
Many
Nonfiction
Inuit
Nonfiction,
Shosho- Activity: Biography prone
ject
Language Arts:
biography research
Dakota
Language Arts:
biography research
Research and report writing. Social Studies:
Activity: Aboriginal CulNorth American
history and multural Groups
Activity: Inventions and
tiple perspectives
Innovations
NonOglala Activity: Biography proSocial Studies:
fiction, (Lakota) ject.
North American
Biography
history and multiple perspectives.
Language Arts:
biography research
Biography
Nonfiction,
Biography
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
Activity: Biography project
24
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
Bruchac, Joseph. (AA). S.D Nelson (AI). Crazy Horse's Vision. 2000, 1NonOglala Activity: Biography pro880000-94-6. This is a fictionalized biography about the childhood and com- fiction, (Lakota) ject.
Biography
ing of age of the noted Lakota Sioux leader and warrior, Crazy Horse.
Bruchac’s description of the vision quest is compelling, and his decision to
limit his story to a few select events demonstrates his understanding of his
audience. An afterword describes subsequent events in the warrior’s life.
Beautifully illustrated.
Crow, Joseph Medicine. Counting Coup: Becoming a Crow Chief on the
Reservation and Beyond. 2006, 978-0792253921. (National Geographic).
Joseph Medicine Crow was born in 1913 on the Crow Indian Reservation in
Montana. Trained as a warrior by his grandfather and unaware of the struggles of the tribe, Medicine Crow fondly remembers a childhood filled with
outdoor games, mud fights, and family gatherings. Despite a terrible experience at the Baptist mission school, he went away to boarding school in Oklahoma, and in 1938, he became the first male Crow Indian to graduate from
college. He studied anthropology until he was inducted into the army in
1942. For Medicine Crow's bravery in World War II, he was declared a Crow
war chief. Medicine Crow's gentle humor make his recollections easy to read
and hard to forget.
Schilling, Vincent. Great Musicians from our First Nations. 2010,
9781897187760. Follow the journey of 10 talented musicians from the Native community as they make their way to the top. All of them, whether their
music is traditional drumming or mainstream rock bring their own cultural
traditions to their music. Includes Shane Yellowbird (Cree).
Schilling, Vincent. Men of Courage from our First Nations. 2008,
9781897187432. Leaders from First Nations have made significant contributions in every major field of endeavor. These men have enriched the lives of
many. In this book are inspiring stories of some of these heroes who have
advanced education, science, politics, law enforcement, and culture. The men
include Larry Merculieff, who helped bring a once enslaved and oppressed
Aleutian people to a position of power and self-sufficiency; Frank Abraham,
an Ojibwe Chief whose wisdom and honesty enabled his tribe to rise from
near financial failure; Raymond Cross, a Coyote warrior who won a victory
of compensation for the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara people; and Stanley
Vollant, an Aboriginal surgeon who fulfilled a 100-year-old Innu tribal
prophecy.
Nonfiction,
Crow
Activity: Biography project.
Many
Activity: Biography project.
Language Arts:
Research and
writing a biography
Many
Activity: Biography project.
Language Arts:
Research and
writing a biography
Biography
Nonfiction,
Biography
Nonfiction,
Social Studies:
North American
history and multiple perspectives.
Language Arts:
biography research
Social Studies:
North American
history and multiple perspectives.
Language Arts:
biography research
Biography
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
25
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
Tallchief , Maria, (AA) with Rosemary Wells. Tallchief: America's Prima
Ballerina. 2001, 978-0142300183. This is a picture-book autobiography of
the early years of America's first internationally significant ballerina. The
story opens with Tallchief's birth on an Osage Indian reservation. Her ScotsIrish mother made sure that Maria and her sister received dance and music
lessons, and eventually her father persuaded her to choose between piano and
dance. The rest is history. The story ends when, at age 17, Maria left home to
seek her fame and fortune in New York.
Kalman, Bobbie. Famous Native North Americans. With index, glossary,
table of contents, appealing format, and beautiful, large, bright illustrations,
this book provides a look at famous native North Americans, from past to
present.
Cardinal, Will. First Nations Hockey Players. 2009, 9780981094212. 170
pp., not illustrated. Provides stories of Canadian First Nations hockey players.
Cardinal, Will. Tom Longboat: Running Against the Wind: A First Nations Canadian Conquers the World’s Marathons. 2009, 9780981094250.
140 pp, includes a few photos.
Wikipedia: Blackfoot - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blackfoot. This Web site
gives a good overview of Blackfoot history and culture. It clarifies the various groups that comprise the Blackfoot Confederacy and describes the Confederacy.
Glenbow Museum: Niitsitapiisini Our Way of Life: The Story of the
Blackfoot People - http://www.glenbow.org/blackfoot/. Information, photos,
graphics and activities abound in this interesting Web site.
NonOsage
fiction,
(Autobiog-
Activity: Biography project.
Language Arts:
Research and
writing a biography.
Activity: Students and
Aboriginal Issues
Activity: Biography project.
Activity: Biography project.
Language Arts:
Bias in text
Research, writing a biography
Language Arts:
Research, writing a biography
Language Arts:
Research, writing a biography
Social Studies:
Blackfoot People of Alberta
raphy)
Non
fiction,
Many
Biography
Biography Many
Biography Onondaga Activity: Biography pro-
ject.
Web site Blackfoot
Compare the Blackfoot
Confederacy with the Iroquois Confederacy
Web site Blackfoot
Use for research.
Social Studies:
Make a map of the historical Blackfoot PeoAboriginal areas in North
ple of Alberta
America.
Make a comparative map of
current Treaty holdings and
reserves.
Bouchard, David. (Métis author) Raven’s Greatest Creation. 2011, 978Folktale Canadi- Activity: Pourquoi and
Language Arts:
0978432775. One of Bouchard’s best books, this story combines many folk- (Pouran
Literature analyCreation Tales
(Ojibwe)
lore elements from Canadian Aboriginal tradition to tell a marvelous creation quoi)
sis
story. Includes a CD with all artwork and music done by Aboriginal artists.
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
26
Literature to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Student Success in Elementary Schools, Grade 6
Using Literature in Teaching Social Studies
Advantages:


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

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



Widespread availability
Easily integrated into thematic curricula
Generally more up to date
More focused and provide an in-depth look at social studies concepts
More interesting and less confusing for students than textbooks
Story lines help students remember concepts better
Contain colourful pictures and graphics
Present a more human side of social studies than do textbooks
Evoke both efferent (factual) and aesthetic response (emotional)
Can be very funny
Support Deliberative Inquiry and Research
What Do We Look For In Non-Fiction?
Criteria:
 Large, clear, high quality colour illustrations, including both photos and drawings
 Drawings include graphs, diagrams, tables and other structures that plot information and show relationships
 Illustrations that match and support the text
 Captions that support the material
 Index
 Table of Contents
 Glossary
 Authority and currency evident in sources used in content development (e.g., sources and authorities listed)
 Text appropriate as to size, font type, placement, amount per page
 Headings and sub-headings used frequently throughout the text
 Content suitable for age of student
 Content appropriate for the intended unit of study
 Content organized in “chunks” of related material
 Print broken up by illustrations, boxes, sidebars, etc., so as to avoid long, intimidating sections of text.
 Appealing format
 Canadian or Albertan content where appropriate and available
Developed by Thalia Hartson for the Southern Alberta Professional Development Consortium, June 2010, updated 2014.
27