The Squamish Public Library is offering locals an opportunity to learn about Truth and Reconciliation through free book giveaways and curated Indigenous resources this September.
On Saturday, Sept. 28, and Sunday, Sept. 29, the library will host the Giveaway Books 2024 event, offering a selection of fiction and non-fiction books that explore the residential school experience in Canada. The books, available for all ages, will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
“The idea behind this free book giveaway is that people will choose a book that speaks to them, read, discuss and reflect on it, and pass it along to someone else,” said Hilary Bloom, the Director of Library Services at the Squamish Public library.
“We encourage everyone to come to the library this Saturday or Sunday to choose a book to read and pass along to others, and then attend the Squamish Nation's National Day for Truth and Reconciliation event downtown on Monday, Sept. 30,” she said.
The Squamish Public Library also offers a special collection of Indigenous resources for the community. This section includes books, films, and educational materials to help people learn more about Indigenous cultures and histories.
Here are some key book recommendations for those looking to deepen their knowledge:
For adults:
We Are Born With the Songs Inside Us By Gordon by Katherine Gordon
Since 2004, journalist Katherine Palmer Gordon has interviewed dozens of young First Nations people living in British Columbia-artists and community leaders, comedians and consultants, musicians and lawyers, people who are household names and those known only within their own communities. We Are Born with the Songs Inside Us collects sixteen stories gleaned from those interviews, stories of people who share the same belief in the importance of their cultural heritage to their well-being, to their success at what they do, and to their everyday lives.
The Gift Is in the Making by Anishinaabeg Stories
The Gift Is in the Making retells previously published Anishinaabeg stories, bringing to life Anishinaabeg values and teachings to a new generation. Readers are immersed in a world where all genders are respected, the tiniest being has influence in the world, and unconditional love binds families and communities to each other and to their homeland. Sprinkled with gentle humour and the Anishinaabe language, this collection speaks to children and adults alike and reminds us of the timelessness of stories that touch the heart.
Tiná7 Cht Ti Temíxw
From the watersheds of the Squamish and Mamquam Rivers and Howe Sound in the north to English Bay, False Creek, and Burrard Inlet in the south, Sk1wx1wú7meshulh Aysáy̓ch (Squamish Territory) encompasses saltwater and rushing rivers, old-growth forests at valley bottoms, and alpine meadows high above the ocean. Tiná7 cht ti temíxw = We come from this land is a powerful introduction to the vast history of the Sk1wx1wú7mesh people. Drawing on stories from our Elders and in-depth research, we trace our history and culture from ancient times to the present day, offering a launching point for discovering more about the places, people, and stories found here.
For kids:
Phoenix Gets Greater by Marty Wilson-Trudeau (2022)
Phoenix loves to play with dolls and marvel at pretty fabrics. Most of all, he loves to dance—ballet, Pow Wow dancing, or just swirling and twirling around his house. Sometimes Phoenix gets picked on and he struggles with feeling different, but his mom and brother are proud of him. With their help, Phoenix learns about Two Spirit/Niizh Manidoowag people in Anishinaabe culture and just how special he is.
Based on the childhood experiences of her son, Phoenix, Marty Wilson-Trudeau demonstrates the difference that a loving and supportive family can make.
Gifts From Raven by Kung Jaadee (2019)
In this book the author Kung Jaadee shares with us that we have each received a special gift from Raven. That gift is our special talent or passion to share with the world. Suggested for ages four to six. This vibrant picture book introduces children to the creation stories of the Haida Nation.
Âmî Osâwâpikones: Dear Dandelion by SJ Okemow (2023)
Both a love letter to the dandelion and a call to love ourselves in a difficult world, Âmî Osâwâpikones reminds us that we are not defined as others see us. Following our young protagonist and the dandelions through the seasons, we are reminded that we are resilient, we are healers, we are funny, and we are loved. A beautiful tale of growth, connection, and Indigenous perspectives on the land.
The giveaway will take place at the library during the weekend.
Bhagyashree Chatterjee is The Squamish Chief’s Indigenous and civic affairs reporter. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative.
