Great Spirit does a thing

Minegoo Mniku: the Mi'kmaq Creation Story of Prince Edward Island
retold and illustrated by Sandra L. Dodge
(Acorn Press)


After the Great Spirit creates the world and its people, he also creates Minegoo - a beautiful island on which his people will live. He tells his helper, Kluskap, to place the island on the most beautiful place on earth. Kluskap sets Minegoo on the Shining Waters, in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

A magical creation story, delicately told in both Mi'kmaq and English. Fine, lightly tinted watercolours enhance the tale, as do the Mi'kmaq quill patterns that edge each page.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

my read shelf:

Another interesting creation story; this is from the Yerubas:

The Origin of Life on Earth: An African Creation Myth

retold by David A. Anderson

Olorun, the supreme god, told his orishas (assistants) that the entire sky was theirs to explore. But Obatala wanted to do more. He suggested that if something could be built on the waters below, a world of beings could be created. Then the orishas could use their powers to help them. Olorun agreed and told Obatala to create the earth and its people.  

Not Your Princess

#NotYourPrincess: Voices of Native American Women 
by Lisa Charleyboy


My rating: 5 of 5 stars


With stories, poetry, and art, Indigenous women give voice to their anger and resilience in the face of prejudice and stereotypes. Highly recommended.

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Voices from the Titanic

The Watch That Ends the Night: Voices from the Titanic 
by Allan Wolf

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Many books have been written about Titanic, but none are as powerful or as memorable as this one.



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Turtle Island

Turtle Island: The Story of North America's First People 
by Yellowhorn

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


The history of North America before the arrival of Columbus, which is rightly termed the end of the world. It's a book that should be part of every school curriculum; even an excellent choice for Canada Reads. A wonderful story that ends optimistically; I hope improvements occur during my lifetime.


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