When the Spirits Dance

by Larry Loyie, Constance Brissenden (Primary Contributor)

When Lawrence's father goes overseas with the Canadian Army during the Second World War, the young Cree boy struggles to grow up while wrestling with the meaning of war. With Papa gone, Mama raises the children alone. Traditional foods such as wild meat and fish are scarce, and many other foods are rationed.

Angry about the changes and confused about the future, Lawrence misses his father and his teachings about their natural way of life. When army runaways threaten the family, Lawrence's courage and knowledge of traditional skills are called upon to keep them safe. With guidance from his grandfather and encouragement from his grandmother, Lawrence faces his challenges, becomes wiser and stronger, and earns the respect of his Elders.

44 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2006

Reviews

[Dawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Worldview - Aboriginal world view - should be acceptable to most readers

Setting:
Location - Northern Alberta
Time Period - WWII

Review:

Eight-year-old Lawrence, can’t understand why his father must go to war. He struggles with his confusion, while experiencing living with his mother and sisters at Rabbit Hill, learning a traditional Cree way of life.

Rationing has made it difficult to get the things they need, and now without their father to hunt wild game is scarce too. Even worse there are deserters roaming the woods trying to steal whatever they can.
They family must work together to get through this difficult time until their father can return home and the war will be over.

The book has beautiful photography throughout, both family photos, and those that illustrate the text.

There are minor editing errors, the most notable being the use of multiple tenses in the epilogue.


Teacher Application

There is some discussion about the Cree belief in spirit animals and their ancestors. Parents may wish to take this opportunity to discuss their own world view with their children. Teachers can use this as an opportunity to present the importance of respecting those with beliefs that differ from their own.

This book is a beautiful way to discuss how difficult it was for families when their father was suddenly sent to war. The effect the men leaving had on society and the concept of rationing and food stamps.

Character Traits Taught:
Courage
Honesty

[Jaime M · Rating 5 out of 5]

My friend gave me this book for Christmas. Though I have a 6 year old, this book is for ages 8-13. I think she got it for me because I’m from northern Alberta where the story of Larry Loyie’s family is from. They’re from the First Nation family with the last name Twin (which I’m familiar with). It’s a personal book with details about what life was like from the 1920’s until about the 1940’s or so. It includes stories of recruitment into the military, service as a First Nation man, family life, the post office/post master, cultural stories connected to the northern lights and coming of age ceremonies. It’s a well written book for the age category. I usually try to read books ahead of time before reading them to my son. I think I’ll wait until November to read this one to him when he’s almost seven and a half years old. It seems like a great reader for those who have trouble reading, it could be a good challenge and alternative to a full novel. There are lovely photos accompanying the text.