Title: Shinchi's Canoe
Author: Nicola I. Campbell
Illustrator: Kim LaFlave
Publish Date: December 2008
Publisher: Groundwood Books
Pages: 40pp
IBSN: 0888998570
Classification: Fiction
Genre: Picture Book
Annotation: Shi-shi-etko is returning to boarding school with her younger brother, Shin-chin, whom is six and has never been away from home before. Being forced to learn a new language and way of life, Shi-shi-etko and Shin-chin find ways to remember their native traditions.
Plot Summary: Shi-shi-etko and her brother Shin-chin are part of the Native people living in Canada. They have to attend boarding school that is far from home. Shi-shi-etko and Shin-chin do not want to go, nor does their family want to send them, but that is the law so they are forced. At school, Shi-shi-etko and Shin-chin are not allowed to speak their native language, or to one another, so they sneak around in order to hold on to their native traditions.
Personal Response: A very touching story that recounts the experiences of Native siblings sent away from their families to attend school. I thought the overall tone of the story was very moving in that it showed the closeness of the siblings and the love of their Native traditions. The illustrations are soft, yet bold with feeling and capture the essence of the story and the bonds of the Native people. I think this is a great read for the history of Native people living in Canada while evoking a heartfelt story about the love of family.
~Reader’s Advisory~
Themes: Honoring and remembering your heritage.
Age Range: 4-7
Subjects: First Nations, Native American, Indian, Residential Schools, Picture Book, Brothers and Sisters, Family Relationships, Love, Traditions
Series:
Shi-Shi Etko (2005)
Shinchi's Canoe (2008)
Similar Titles:
A Sled Dog for Moshi by Jeanne Bushey
The Donkey of Gallipoli: A True Story of Courage in World War I by Mark Greenwood
