Talk Treaty to Me: Understanding the Basics of Treaties and Land in Canada

by Crystal Gail Fraser, Sara Komarnisky

Treaties cover much of Canada. Some were established thousands of years ago, with Land and animals, and others date back to the time when Europeans first arrived in North America. These agreements make it possible for all of us to live, work, play, and profit on these Lands. Additionally, treaties have profoundly shaped the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. In Talk Treaty to Me, Crystal Gail Fraser and Sara Komarnisky untangle the complexities of treaties and set forth a path to a greater understanding of all our roles, rights, and responsibilities. In this accessible, clear, and concise book, they discuss:

- Treaties among and between Indigenous Peoples

- The history of treaty-making between Indigenous Peoples and Britain, then Canada, from the very beginning to the present day

- Concepts like Métis scrip, modern Land claims and self-government agreements, Indigenous sovereignty, and unceded territory

- The (dis)honouring of treaties and the role of Canadian settler colonialism

- How the creation of Canadian borders interrupts Indigenous sovereignty and nationhood

- Important insights from gendered and queer perspectives on treaty and Land

- The politics of land acknowledgements

- Reconciliation and Land Back movements

With a quick-reference timeline, maps, and black-and-white photographs throughout, Talk Treaty to Me concludes with a call to action and specific, tangible steps that all of us can take every day to support truth and reconciliation.

Genres: Nonfiction, Canada, Indigenous, History, Audiobook

320 pages, Paperback

Published February 24, 2026

Reviews

[Emmkay · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good overview focused on treaties involving Indigenous peoples and lands in Canada. I was excited to read it as I felt my knowledge around treaties to be lacking: I had a passing familiarity with the treaties where I grew up, and very little regarding other ones. A few core chapters helped remedy that, and I now have a better understanding of the historic arc and main phases of treaty-making, and the many issues with their implementation. Because it’s an overview, it’s a bit dry and doesn’t delve into the level of detail that I tend to find especially exciting, but I think this will be an excellent resource for many people.

The most interesting if briefly alluded to piece, which was a really new way of looking at the world for me, was a short section mentioning that Indigenous peoples continue to make treaties with animal and plant nations, drawing on long histories of treaty making in making relationships with each other and with other living beings. A contemporary example that is provided is the Buffalo Treaty of 2014. So fascinating, and I’d love to learn more about this.

[Chapters & Chives · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an incredibly important and informative read. It should be taught in schools, along with Truth Telling, Unsettling Canada, 52 Ways to Reconcile, Surviving Canada, Seven Fallen Feathers, among many more!

This book exposes the lies and missing stories in our history books, leaving most Canadians ignorant to the fact that treaties, legal agreements, were made with indigenous nations to leave ownership of their lands and governments in their own hands. Some lands were agreed upon to be shared amongst neighbouring nations, such as exemplified by the Two Row Wampum. This is why many lands in Canada are called "unceded" which means our settler ancestors settled illegally onto lands that were never given to us. And many nations that did cede their lands to the early Canada government were tricked by biased translators, had their signatures misrepresented, and were mismanaged. Evidence of this is in all the land claim settlements that many Indigenous nations are winning because of the clear evidence of their legal ownership of their lands since time immemorial and earlier. This is why learning about the history of treaties in Canada is so important!

And what I appreciated was the narration by Tiffany Ayalik, and the writing style of authors Crystal Gail Fraser and Sara Komarnisky, is so accessible and warm. The book provides a safe space to learn and reflect on Canada's darker history.

Thank you HarperCollins and Harper Audio for the gifted ALC in exchange for my honest review 🙏

[Chantel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rivers flowing far & wide remind all who wander that life is preserved through tenderness & force. In dual parts, a reminder of the gift of existence, water reveals the nature of humanity’s self, one that seeks to forget the substance from which it has been made. Many narratives offer reflections about the dawn of Creation. Whether the influx of desire for representation reveals to the believer their selfish needs fulfilled as the wandering mirror of God, or the beloved soothing calm of the animal who protected all species from the frost of the depths, all stories of this nature represent the people who believe them to be true.

I shall hardly start this review with faulting the ideology that comforts the brain when pondering the monstrosity of existence. However, I speak about such things at this stage, so far into the beginning of my writing, because it is important to remember that from all things alive, life coexists with those who breathe the air of the planet, the substance that gives humanity life. The communal practice of breath may seem a tedious reminder, one plagued by a redundancy, for why would such a thing be needed?

Many things seem irrelevant, redundant, trite, & absurd; this does not disqualify them from holding value. Yet value is something that many feel able to toss around when they deem it necessary, while simultaneously withholding it when any particular thing is outside of the scope of their perspective. I find fault in this.

Whether you are Canadian, as I am, or not, the book explored throughout this review is one that I believe all readers should explore as meriting their stamps of approval. Value is found within the binding & brilliantly paced letters of the thoughtful authors who have taken so much care to compose a history of Treaties.

While many of my Canadian contemporaries may feel that they have become nuanced to the experiences of Indigenous Peoples, the text contains far more gravitas than the casual reader might hold. While the Canadian schooling systems seem to be taking slow, if deliberate, steps to include more dynamic realities in their syllabus, many Canadians remain ignorant of the legal engagement & relationships that our country has undergone.

It is my personal philosophy that one should not be shamed for one’s ignorance. My reviews may leave one with the opinion that I hold harsh judgment towards the failure to achieve completeness in statements & subjects, especially as I cite my sources. This is true. When I read a book, I anticipate being met by the author on the page. I expect the person at the helm & those who supported the publication of literature to have done more research, analysis, & scholastic undertaking than I have.

That is not to say that people should know everything about everything, but rather that any particular subject can be researched. I understand the difficulties of those who lived in a century categorically different from my own; even those who live alongside me but who do not have the resources to explore beyond the structure of their circumstances. To these & many others, I can be forgiving. I am not without a brain, after all. However, in many pieces of literature, I have come to find that those whom the reader trusts to take them on the sailing experience of the afternoon, or one which will leave them devoted for a lifetime, have done abysmally little to research their themes.

These reviews are, in some way, dissertation papers which I offer to my future self & to those who have come to my corner of the universal wide web. There is much that I have yet to learn, which is partially why I read so much. There are times when I encounter a theme that I know well & still, I double down on ensuring that I have cited resources for the reader who may have come upon the theme or topic for the very first time.

Without the efforts of others, we might have collectively remained in darkness forever. We learn through & from each other. I have been blessed with this gift many times & I hope to have been able to pay that forward. Therefore, while I forgive ignorance as the common condition found in us all, at least once, but maybe more, it is our responsibility to explore the garden beyond the wall.

By reading books of this esteem, one may learn something new or perhaps be reminded of why reading is such a crucial privilege within our species. Both Fraser & Komarnisky present readers with the dynamic history of Canada through many treaties the Crown & the Government of Canada have undertaken with Indigenous Peoples.

Their efforts explore the changing landscape, the legal system, & the reality that continues to shape Canada. While the scope of the book is that of Canada’s relationship through a history of Treaties with Indigenous Peoples, the book is important reading for everyone. The reality is that Canada is often viewed as a landmark human-rights defender; a State that values equal & equitable rights amongst all people; a Nation that stands for sustainable peace & justice. These things are true, but so too are the experiences that carve the imagery on the other side of the coin.

When I was in school, we never learnt about the realities that shape the lives of the people who inhabit the country. The narrative of our history books & class discussions was focused on the idealized Canadian person. Whether this imaginary individual held any particular features for any of my classmates or teachers, I cannot say. During these lessons, it seemed important that the young minds understand the sheer level of sacrifice that was undertaken by Canadians in order that the Nation should become what it was.

I acknowledge that I have been out of school for many years, even longer since I was a young child in elementary school, but these years have shaped me. Every moment of Church, of morning prayer, every stone that snuck its way into my shoes, down to the groove in my index finger from holding my pencil too hard, all added to the microscope of my cells. It is this way for all people; we are that which has happened to us.

Where does that leave those who have become that which is unseen? What becomes of the casualty of policy? Who speaks when the voice has been silenced? Which tongue wags that has been severed?

Neither Fraser nor Komarnisky in their joint endeavour drive home the point which I have lain bare which is that the history of Canada’s actions have been greatly swept aside in an attempt to idolize the ideal the Canadian—the imaginary being whom I cannot picture unless I look in the mirror & see a reflection of every speckled freckle & dimple of those whose journey brought me into mine.

It seems nearly impossible that an entire population should be ignorant of such important data as that revealed in this book. While it is true that many people have been actively working to counteract & undo the ignorance they have fostered, the intricacies of the history presented by the authors reveal a troubling series of events undertaken by the Crown & the Government of Canada. It also reveals a level of dedication that cannot help but leave one feeling hopeful.

While this review may not have undertaken the dictation of every chapter, every Treaty, every cultural reality within Canada, on Turtle Island & the frosted, toothy, familiar smile of the Mother, my reflection in this case calls upon the truth of my own experiences & those whom the silent sing into the night as wind.

I was given the opportunity to listen to an early version of this book before publication. The audio format proved to be enthralling & although I was aware of the majority of what was being shared, I was glad to have been given the gift of revising knowledge. Through stories, even those deemed non-fiction, humanity grows into its own, becoming closer to the meaning all beings seek in their pursuits of value on this great wide divide.

The efforts by the authors showcase a genius level of absolute scholastic undertaking & thoughtfulness. Their efforts have offered the world of written words & spoken stories, something of great value, if I may say so myself. Throughout this book, I was reminded of the lives of my fellow kin, those whose names I know, & those whose feet trod the earth as mine do.

It is an enigmatic talent to be able to compose a text with so much intricate detail, the majority of which is riddled with unfortunate consequences, presenting it to an array of readers coming from different walks of life, & doing so with the confidence that each of these people, from peoples themselves, will have something important, informative, & moving to absorb. Upon finishing this review, I must note the structural sashay was intentional; I should hope my enthusiasm motivates other readers to undertake the journey by the river, finding their way into gardens of yellow.

Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins Canada Audio, Crystal Gail Fraser & Sara Komarnisky, for the free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

[Laura✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

An engaging, accessible, and genuinely educational listen. As a Canadian history teacher, I appreciated how "Talk Treaty to Me" breaks down these complex and important topics — treaty relationships, Indigenous sovereignty, land stewardship, and the long legacy of colonial policy — with clarity and warmth, making this history feel both approachable and urgent. The audiobook format adds even more value; hearing proper pronunciation and cadence deepened my understanding in a way print alone can’t match. I learned a lot, and it’s exactly the kind of thoughtful, well‑told nonfiction more Canadians should be reading and talking about.

This was a review for NetGalley.

[sydney | books + cats || thebookishcatmom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly wish i'd have taken more studies in high school that talked about Treaties and the history of the land we call Canada. It's not nearly as talked about as it should, and quite frankly "Native Studies" (which is what my high school called it) was deemed the "easy" course. And if that doesn't give you some sort of indication that other things are more important..I don't know what does.

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an essential guide to treaties in Canada. It’s thought-provoking, educational, and a sobering reminder of how much learning we have to do beyond the confines of our institutions. Growing up, I heard about treaties in the context of Canada's expansion and consolidation, but they were never framed this starkly in history class. Lest we forget that our first prime minister was a real supervillain. Many points throughout were familiar from other reading, but I really appreciated the specific calls to action. I feel genuinely inspired by the reframing of land acknowledgements, they should make us uncomfortable as settlers. We shouldn't be parroting out the specifics, we should be reflecting on our personal commitments and obligations. I want to be a good guest on this land. We all come from the land, and this earth is all we have.

I am a settler who has moved across many territories in my life: born in Belleville, on the territory of the Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples; raised in Oshawa, within the traditional and treaty territory of the Michi Saagiig and Chippewa Anishinaabeg and the signatories of the Williams Treaties; educated in Ottawa on the unceded territory of the Algonquin nation; and in London, on the territories of the Anishinaabek, Haudenosaunee, Lūnaapéewak, and Chonnonton Nations, where I conducted research into fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, a condition inseparable from the violence of residential schools and child removal. That work brought me into rare contact with FASD families and communities, and those encounters changed how I think about research. I now work at the Douglas in Montreal, on land long recognized as a site of meeting and exchange among the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabeg nations. It’s an institution with a troubling history in its treatment of Indigenous patients that I hold consciously. These places have all shaped me. I owe them, and the people whose territories they are, active accountability by supporting Indigenous communities and businesses, and reading more Indigenous stories and authors. This book is part of that commitment.

Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Canada for access to this book.

[MK · Rating 5 out of 5]

I asked for an ARC of this book because I wanted to better understand the history of treaties with indigenous people in Canada, especially in light of the rapid implementation of nation-building projects our Federal government is embarking on. It's an easy read in terms of its style, a tough read in the content. I knew we had violated our treaties and harmed people but I didn't realize how much deception was involved in so much of it, or how devastating the Indian Act is, or that so much of it still happens today.

Starting with looking at treaties between various nations before settlers even landed on these shores and going through to present day, a case is made for how treaties were seen as agreements for living in co-existence and what we can do to move towards this goal. I understand a lot better now what indigenous leaders and protestors are talking about. I also really appreciate the suggestions at the end of the book as to what to do to make this country a better place for us all.

This book is a must read for everyone who lives on this land we call Canada. Wouldn't hurt folks from other countries to read as well.

[Lindsay pinkcowlandreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book delivers exactly what it promises, an easy to read, guide to treaties, Indigenous sovereignty, and recognizing and taking care of the land that all of us Canadians live upon.

I really appreciate it. The information provided about the history of treaties in general. Treaties existing amongst Indigenous peoples, and the treaties created between the indigenous peoples and the early settlers and then the government of Canada.

I think this book did a great job going over what the treaties represent and the intention behind them and along with that provided a good reference for going forward with respect and acknowledgement of agreed upon decisions.

I think this is a good step in the right direction moving towards truth and reconciliation within Canada. I think it’s a great lesson for all Canadians so that we can all come at this with the same background and history.

I listened to the audiobook narrated by Tiffany Ayalik and enjoyed her reading cadence. She delivered the material in a straightforward and relaxed manner that makes it very accessible to the listener.

This is a review of the audiobook.

[Isobel · Rating 5 out of 5]

An accessible nonfiction read specifically focused on Canadian treaties, Talk Treaty to Me is simply excellent. I’ve read many other works on Canada and Indigenous-Settler relationships that address treaties and empathize their importance. This book fills an important gap in the literature by not just addressing, but focusing on treaties.

The writing was digestible without sacrificing important nuance, and the authors were wonderfully transparent about the rationale behind their use of different perspectives and their choices to be specific and/or generalize at different points throughout.

While I enjoyed my cover-to-cover read, each of the chapters in this book is well developed and could certainly stand alone. It’s a book that can be read quickly or slowly, in order or not, entirely or in segments. Just know it’s worth reading!

ARC provided by HarperCollins Canada via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The official release date for this title is February 24, 2026!

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been looking forward to this book about Indigenous Treaties in Canada for a while now and I'm happy to report it lived up to expectations.

The author shares a history of a number of significant Treaties across Canada and the lasting impact they've had over the years. The book is a great blend of history, cultural criticism and hope for the future, including tips and suggestions for things everyone can do in their own lives - from land acknowledgements to more.

I really appreciated the nuanced discussion about the pros and cons of land acknowledgments and how they can be done right but also things to avoid when making/using them. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy of this powerful and important book! Perfect for anyone who enjoyed David A Robertson's 52 ways to reconcile.

[Ellen - most.lyromance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Talk Treaty to Me is a deep dive into the treaties in Canada. This is an excellent place to start if you would like to get a very thorough understand of the basics of treaties. The authors cover history, intentions behind treaties, changes and additions to numbered treaties, and current repercussions. The lack of grey area in the purposeful genocide of an entire people is detailed very well .

I really appreciated the amassed knowledge in this book. I am not new to treaties, so some (most?) of the information was what I already knew, but I think that, no matter where you are in your truth and reconciliation path, this is a helpful resource. Any gaps in your knowledge can be covered with this, and the prose is really easily read. I enjoyed the audiobook!

[Reilly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins Canada Audio for the audio of this one.
This was a fulsome read regarding treaties in Canada. I learned a lot as it was fairly broad but also dove down where it needed to into those important details to best understand how we got where we are. It’s so unsettling to read about the trickery and manipulation that is basically the backbone of the Canada we know today.
The audio was excellent. Clear, easy to follow, great pace (although I sped it up). Highly recommend for those of us that are interested in learning about this topic.

[Ellen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent book for anyone who wants to understand some of the history & culture of Indigenous Peoples in Canada (& the USA), but most importantly, it carefully explains treaties in Canada between Indigenous Peoples & Canada (& the Crown). The writing and explanations are clear and easy to understand. Canada has a history of not always following those agreements, and this is meticulously discussed, as well as the struggle by Indigenous Peoples to right those wrongs. This is an important book that should be read by everyone, indigenous or non-indigenous.

[Jessica Perreault · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely love this work! I would recommend this book to all who reside on treaty land to better understand our mutual duty to preserve and protect sacred treaty agreements. This book reminds us that in order to move forward in good relation, it’s important to confront the uncomfortable truths and realities of Canada’s wrongdoings and failure to uphold treaty obligations. It gives me hope for the future of our people.

[Anne Jisca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am constantly learning about what Indigenous in Canada have been through. What treaties are, include, and how they were ignored. How our indigenous brothers and sisters have been failed.

This book was valuable information about treaties, and helping me understand more about it all. As someone who loves north, with a large population of Indigenous, on their land! I'm so thankful for books like this.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.

[Joanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

When the tagline says “An essential and easy to read guide to treaties in Indigenous sovereignty and the land for all Canadiens “ - they mean it. This book provided easy to read, yet deeply detailed information along with points of reflection and the space to see where you can put into action with what you’re learning. I think everyone should put this on their TBR in 2026.

[Sandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

A book attempting to tackle the complexities of the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada and their lands. Sometimes a bit dry and oversimplified, but overall an interesting book to better understand a key part of Canadian history.

[Mtoffee · Rating 5 out of 5]

An important read for any Canadian wanting to learn more and honestly pursue reconciliation. This was well formatted with really easy to understand language explaining treaties and their purpose and origins in Canada.

[Taylor Cornwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible synthesis of treaty history.