Synopsis
Summary
On an island at the edge of a wild sea, a Tlingit girl and her grandmother gather gifts from the earth. Salmon from the stream, herring eggs from the ocean, and in the forest, a world of berries. Through the seasons, they sing to the land as the land sings to them. In every step of their journey, they forge a deeper kinship with both the earth and the generations that came before, joining in the song that connects us all.
Notable Achievements
2022 Kirkus Best Children’s Book; 2022 SLJ Best Book; 2022 Booklist Editors’ Choice; 2022 Publishers Weekly Best Book; 2022 Bookpage Best Book; 2022 NPR Best Book; 2022 Washington Post Best Book; 2022 Center For The Study of Multicultural Children’s Literature Best Book; 2023 ALSC Notable Books for Children; 2023 CCBC Children’s Choices List; 2023 Bank St College Best Books
Reviews
Publishers Weekly: "Tapping into themes of people’s connection to nature—and nature’s to people—the volume crucially invites readers to recognize this intersection."
Kirkus Reviews: "This beautifully written story by Caldecott medalist Goade features breathtaking, atmospheric artwork inspired by the wild landscape of her hometown, Sheet’ká, Alaska, and incorporates rich symbolism and imagery from Tlingit culture. A touching story of familial love and of respect and gratitude for the bounty of the land."
School Library Journal: "Goade calls upon her childhood memories and current home and shares important information about the beauty and utility of nature. Told in rhythm, song, and narrative, the language is rich and evocative—perfect for early elementary readers."
Booklist: "The glowing pictures and supportive text encourage our stewardship of Mother Earth as Caldecott Medal winner Goade presents another important contribution to both environmental and cultural literature."
Link to Review
Educator Guide
Link to Guide
Check Out More Books
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Tana Cooks a Valentine Surprise
Indigenous Environmentalism: Honoring Our Relationships and Responsibilities with Nature
