Book cover of Treaty Words: For As Long As The Rivers Flow

Treaty Words: For As Long As The Rivers Flow

ISBN

9781773214962

Publisher & Publication Year

Annick Press, 2021

Publisher's Book Page

Author

Aimée Craft (Anishinaabe/Cree)

Author's Website 

Illustrator

Luke Swinson (Anishinaabe/Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation)

Synopsis

Summary

The first treaty that was made was between the earth and the sky. It was an agreement to work together. We build all of our treaties on that original treaty. On the banks of the river that have been Mishomis’s home his whole life, he teaches his granddaughter to listen—to hear both the sounds and the silences, and so to learn her place in Creation. Most importantly, he teaches her about treaties: the bonds of reciprocity and renewal that endure for as long as the sun shines, the grass grows, and the rivers flow.

Notable Achievements

Honor title, Storytelling World Awards; Best Books of 2021 List, Kirkus Reviews

Reviews

Publishers Weekly: "This pocket-size picture book elegantly reveals the intended beauty and harmony of a treaty from an indispensable Indigenous perspective."

Kirkus Reviews: "Craft’s lyrical prose, richly layered with Anishinaabe language, culture, and philosophy, centers the story on an Indigenous understanding of treaties in their truest sense... Meditative, devotional, and vital."

School Library Journal: "This quiet contemplative account of learning to live with nature and together as people has a place in every collection, and while its meditative tone will appeal to older and more advanced readers, it could be the centerpiece of a story hour for younger listeners."

Educator Guide

This guide, created by educator Kareena Butler, includes pre-reading activities, discussion questions, and extension activities.

Link to Guide

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