Starred review from March 1, 2024
PreS-Gr 2-This joyful, inclusive picture book involves everyone in an introduction to M�tis culture. In one spread after another, drawn in an accessible watercolor style, friendly M�tis children share various aspects of their culture, such as traditional food, music, art, dance, and poetry. The first child shares a M�tis tradition they participate in, then the next tells whether their family participates in that tradition before sharing another aspect of the culture. This continuity establishes the community as diverse yet strongly connected. Most sentences are simple, and there are never more than three per page, which keeps the book moving and the information engaging. The illustrations are fairly simple, but they creatively incorporate traditional M�tis art forms, such as beading. An author's note provides additional information. VERDICT Despite the specificity implied in the title, this is a book for everyone. A first purchase for libraries looking to expand Indigenous representation in collections.-Maria Bohan
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Starred review from May 15, 2024
Hilderman (M�tis Nation of Alberta) proudly pays tribute to her heritage in this heartwarming story that invites readers to embrace their own roots. The book starts with a simple question: "Are you M�tis like me?" An accompanying illustration depicts children of diverse skin tones romping through a meadow. The young people answer the question in their own ways, each revealing a M�tis custom they practice at home with their extended families. Each scene seamlessly transitions to the next. On one spread, a child sews beads onto moccasins with Noohkom (Michif for Grandma), while on the following spread, another child chimes in, "I have moccasins, too!" We see families handing down other traditions, from picking saskatoon berries to making bannock to fishing. The author also introduces a M�tis child who's unfamiliar with these customs but who's welcomed into the fold: "It is never too late. You can learn now!" Hilderman emphasizes the importance of sharing intergenerational knowledge with family and friends. Hugo's artwork is vibrant and intricate, the use of colored pencil lending the visuals a sense of intimacy. Beaded designs and floral motifs appear throughout, making it clear that the characters are immersed in nature. An author's note explains that M�tis, French for mixed, refers to those descended from First Nation women and European fur traders. A joyful story that encourages empathy and affirms identity. (recipe for bannock/gaalet, English-Michif glossary) (Picture book. 4-8)
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