Sarah Ponakey, Storycatcher and Âhâsiw’s Forest Powwow

ISBN

9781773218892

Publisher & Publication Year

Annick Press, 2024

Publisher's Book Page

Author

Sita MacMillan (Zagime Anishinabek member/Cree/Scottish)

Author's Website

Illustrator

Azby Whitecalf (Plains Cree)

Illustrator's Website

Synopsis

Summary

Sarah Ponakey has moved to the city from her home community with her mom and it’s the pits! She misses her Kôhkom, her best friend Eden, and the forests around her community. After a particularly tough day where she nearly loses her favorite stuffed animal, Âhâsiw, Sarah finds herself transported to a magical forest powwow…

Accompanied by a life-sized Âhâsiw in his beautiful regalia, Sarah watches in excitement as a chipmunk emcees, and bears play the host drum at her first ever powwow. The more she sees, the more her confidence grows. As she joins in the celebration, Sarah discovers that she can connect to her Cree culture no matter where she is. Her Kôhkom’s going to love this story!

Notable Achievements

Nominated, Silver Birch Express Award 2025; Joint winner, TD Summer Reading Club 2025

Reviews

School Library Journal: "This story lovingly depicts Cree culture and depicts the common challenges of being the new kid, and how to stay connected to old friends while making new ones."

Link to Review

Booklist: "This book is a fantastic addition to any children’s library, providing both an entertaining adventure and an introduction to Cree culture."

Link to Review