"What is it, Noko?" Grandmother does not answer. Somehow, I feel that we are being watched and she knows what is there. "I will go and see what it might be." And then I add, "I'll be careful."
Although I try to sound brave, I don't want to go into the dark corner where the fire does not glow. I remind myself that I have been in the woods many times and was never afraid before. I walk toward the huge white pine that hides what could be there. Again, I feel a wind tapping my back. I look behind me. There is nothing.
As night sets in and the fire crackles, a young native girl is amazed when he grandmother invokes the spirits of their ancestors. She learn the mystical firedance and creates a bond with her people and their heritage that will last a lifetime.
An intriguing glimpse of American Indian tradition.
- Orange County Register
Jan Bourdeau Waboose
is First Nation Anishinaabe of the Ojibway Bear Clan from northern Ontario. Jan started writing stories and poetry from a young age. She draws on childhood experiences and her work reflects her traditions and culture of the Indigenous peoples. Her writings respect and honour families and our natural surroundings. In her writing, she tries to convey the Native life she sees in her family, friends and community — a larger, fuller picture than the stereotypes prevalent in North American society. Jan's titles include: SkySisters, Morning on the Lake, (shortlisted Mr. Christie book Award) Firedancers, Where Only the Elders Go, and numerous poetry anthologies.
C.J. Taylor
is an internationally acclaimed artist and children's author of Mohawk heritage. She has traveled extensively throughout North America helping make the rich cultural history of native people accessible to the young. Her paintings are in many private collections across Canada and the US. She is a self-taught artist and storyteller who has organized exhibitions of Native art across North America.
Updates Available: Updates Available: Update available for Picture Gallery Module