Sage Spiedel is an Indigenous educator, working in Northern Saskatchewan, who comes from the Standing Rock Hunkpapa Lakota Nation and the Sapotaweyak Cree Nation. Her inherited Teachings of the Lakota and Cree cultures and Ceremony, as well as her lived experience as an accomplished Traditional Singer and Dancer, have supported this story. Sage’s passion for learning, writing and teaching is inspired by her Kunsi (Grandmother) Darlene, and Michunski (Daughter) Wakiza. This is her debut picture book.Leah Dorion is a Métis artist raised in Prince Albert SK. Her work (art, video documentaries) showcase Métis culture and history. Leah’s paintings honour the spiritual strength of Indigenous women and the sacred feminine. From the Authors Note:"This short story is a collaboration of my culture, history, and Lakota traditions. The gift of prayer while dancing is a teaching that was handed to me by my Kunsi (grandmother), that I now hand down to my Michunski (daughter). When you love someone, you decorate and adorn them beautifully— Michunski wears regalia that I have beaded and hand sewn for her, using the Lakota teachings that were handed down to me. The inherited designs represent a legacy that has been in our family for generations. Wacipi (powwow), is the celebrations of all nations, where we as relatives are able to gather and have a sense of belonging and express ourselves amongst our other relatives. By walking this way of life with Michunski, I can continue to share and bring people together to learn our holistic Indigenous ways of knowing and teachings. One day we will all waci together. Toksa ake (until next time)" This picture book contains 24 pages and includes a glossary of First Nations terms. Audience: Ages 4-9.
