Sharing Our Truths: Tapwe

Tapwe is a Cree word for “it is so” or “the truth”. This new juvenile nonfiction book in “The Land is Our Storybook” series contains 32 pages of information about truths that the Cree and Chipewyn authors (both residential school survivors) have experienced in their culture. Their aim is to make readers proud of this nation. Through this book, they introduce readers to their families and the activities they do when they visit Fort Smith in the North West Territories. Colour photographs show the authors teaching and volunteering in their community and sharing knowledge with their families about harvesting salt, offering tobacco, and trapping beavers. Tipi teachings show how to construct a tipi with a group of people and the knots that hold the poles together. There are several pages of detailed information about smudging and sacred plants. The pages contain definitions, labeled photographs, and examples of the family’s demonstrating these traditional practices both inside and outside their home. Back material includes two traditional stories, a glossary, and more information about the Salt Plains and Salt River First Nation.