In the spirit of truth and reconciliation, here is one way to find highly recommended books by Indigenous peoples for your classroom.
The First Nations Communities Read “…celebrates the very best of Indigenous literature across Turtle Island. The program encourages family literacy, intergenerational storytelling as well as intergenerational knowledge transmission. FNCR also helps to increase awareness of the importance of First Nation, Metis and Inuit writing, illustration and publishing.” (fcnr.ca)
I am sure there are books from the past and present short lists that would be incredible stories to read aloud in your classroom.
Let’s look at last year’s winning book in the children’s category, Phoenix Gets Greater. The main character is a boy whose confidence gets shattered when he realizes he’s different. His self-image is rebuilt as he begins to understand what it means to be Two Spirit. The acceptance and love from his family help him rekindle his passion for dance and dolls. I can imagine using this story as a wonderful teaching tool.
The volunteer jury of First Nations librarians who select the award winning books from the short list must have a difficult time. There are so many great books nominated that I wouldn’t know how to narrow it down! This year there are 34 books on the short list in the children’s category. The program awards $5000 to the authors through sponsorship by the Periodical Marketers of Canada.
The FNCR also has a YA/Adult category where you can find titles for yourself. Many of you are avid readers who are looking to better understand our role as teachers in truth and reconciliation. Looking through the titles I can see many that would interest my colleagues and friends. One of the things that I love about reading is that it gives me a deeper understanding of other people’s lives. No doubt I will be suggesting titles of this list to my book club!
I’m heading to my local public library to get familiar with some of the nominated titles in both categories. When I’m out on my supply teaching days, I will also be talking to teacher librarians and principals to encourage them to add books from FNCR to their collection. I’m grateful to the Ontario Library Service for running this program and shining a spotlight on these wonderful books!
