Canada: We Are the Story

by Richard Wagamese, Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley (illustrator)

A poem by acclaimed Ojibway author Richard Wagamese is reimagined as a stunning picture book in the skilled hands of Anishinaabe artist Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley. Thoughtful, healing and hopeful, Canada is a testament to the transformative power of enduring identity and belonging.

"Listen. Can you hear the voices of the Old Ones speaking to you in a language you've forgotten?"

An Indigenous child struggles with a school assignment that asks, "What makes you proud to be Canadian?" To find the answer, they call on the strength of their ancestors. The ancestors' warm presence reminds them that we are in this together and we always have been — "every soul that has fallen head over heels in love with the spell of this country."

This powerful and timeless poem written by Richard Wagamese is seen through the eyes of an Indigenous child in the captivating illustrations by Anishinaabe artist Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley. As the poem speaks to a new generation of Indigenous children, it welcomes everyone to honor the past, find belonging here and now, and look toward the future in this place now called Canada.

Genres: Childrens, Picture Books

40 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication March 17, 2026

About the author

Richard Wagamese was one of Canada's foremost Native authors and storytellers. He worked as a professional writer since 1979. He was a newspaper columnist and reporter, radio and television broadcaster and producer, documentary producer and the author of twelve titles from major Canadian publishers.

Reviews

[Jennifer L · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really spoke to me! Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC. I hope that when this book is published, it will speak to other everyday, average, born and raised Canadians like myself. Our country is currently in crisis. Many Canadians are giving up hope for a bright future in our country. Some no longer trust our government, many no longer know and respect their next door neighbor. This is so different from the Canada I grew up in. There is a lot of hate and division among citizens. Recently, I have been devouring as many books as I can that can educate me about indigenous and Metis history in recent years. I want to know about the Canadians who were here before me. There is a hunger among my library patrons for education, whether they are discovering their heritage or they want to learn more about the rich history that our province is home to. I also am a firm believer that we are all on this earth for a reason and that we are part of one family, no matter the color of our skin or our country of origin. We can also learn from each others' stories. The line that really got my heartstrings was 'Every story is the seed of a thousand more'. This was such a great children's book! It sums up how I wish we all could come together, learn from our past, whether it be from history or the voices of our ancestors calling to us. Richard Wagamese, such a talented writer, was taken from us too soon. I'm sure he had more stories to share.

This simple children's book, written by one of Canada's best indigenous storytellers, almost had me in tears, it was so beautifully written in a way that children will have no problem understanding if their parents would take the time to share this book with them. It is masterfully illustrated by Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley. So many vibrant colours! This book would be an asset to any public library, school library, or personal home library. I look forward to seeing it circulate at the library I work at, when it is released! Let's fall in love with Canada all over again.

[Kay Hertz · Rating 5 out of 5]

BLUF: Beautiful illustrations, wonderful ode to First Nations in Canada without divisiveness but rather emphasizing inclusion and shared understanding.

Overall: 5🌟
Lesson: 5📍
Illustration: 5 🖌️

Mom's Review:
I loved the author's lyrical style (written in English). It was lovely to read and listen to ("A" read it out loud as well). The whole family enjoyed the sense of bringing historically different cultures together, to share one another's responsibilities for caring of our Earth, to "leave the greatest story that you can for those who come behind you."

In a way, we see the Biblical Golden Rule re-written in a different form - and every single culture world wise has something very similar. It's wonderful to see a book for children really extolling the positive virtues of how we're all connected, we all need one another, because "nothing is truly separate." I've love to hear this in the original Ojibway (*immediately goes to a search engine to see if that exists!)

"A's" Review
The pictures were so pretty and I really liked reading about Ojibway ancestors and taking good care of our [Earth] land. Plants and animals are so important and I wish everyone cared about them as much as they should! I've asked to read this a few times and I know I'll read it again soon.

"C's" Review
The Ancestors were a little scary for me, but I did like that the story said we should all try to be friends [work together]!

Dad's Review
(Pending)

(Full Traveling Book Family reviews to come!)

A huge thank you to the late Mr. Richard Wagamese, talented Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley, Swiftwater Publishing, & NetGalley for the chance to read and review this book!

All reviews are our own

[Chelsea]

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy

Canada by Richard Wagamese is a picture book that asks young readers to find comfort in the fact that they are part of a family and people that came before them and that those connections will always exist.

One thing I really loved about this was that it happened with a school assignment asking students what makes them proud to be a Canadian and how complicated that question could be for Indigenous students. It makes it very relatable for readers who have struggled with living in the wake of colonization and what that has meant for them, their families, their culture, etc.

The art uses a lot of cooler shades with some warmer shades utilized here and there to really help make everything else pop. There is also some utilization of a more traditional Indigenous art style (I’m not familiar enough to say which people(s) it comes from) and some gorgeous two page spreads.

The very end includes a sign using the rainbow colors associated with the Pride flag, which is a subtle but excellent reminder that identities intersect and could be used to introduce young readers to the concept of Two Spirits. Other signs in those panels are calling for people coming together to stand for Indigenous rights and reminders that the land is sacred and we need to take care of it, all important points to start introducing in preschool and kindergarten.

I would recommend this to educators and librarians looking for ways to introduce environmentalism and climate change and how that affects the original stewards of North America and everyone else and young readers looking for comfort when the world seems unwelcoming

[Mim_Who _Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

The illustrated version of this poem is just breathtaking and evocative. It's a moving and visually stunning tribute to identity and belonging. Wagamese’s poetic voice is profound and reflective, and with the illustrations it becomes a tender narrative through the eyes of an Indigenous child searching for meaning in what it means to be Canadian.

The book gracefully invites the reader to reconnect with the voices of the ancestors, gently guiding them through memory, culture, and shared history. It's a beautiful reminder that our roots shape our identity—and that the Canadian land is rich with spirit and story.

The illustrations are quite beautiful. Each page is infused with warmth and emotion, creating a dreamlike experience that lingers long after you're done reading. The illustrator did an amazing job at bringing the poem to life, grounding it in both past and present in a way that feels both personal and universal.

This is not just a picture book—it's a powerful affirmation of Indigenous resilience and the enduring power of story.

Big thanks to NetGalley and Tundra Book Group / Swift Water Book for the beautiful ARC.

[Shan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book that I think will be extremely meaningful to so many young readers out there. The author clearly knew their stuff going into writing this book, and I felt that Wagamese also spoke straight from the heart. While I myself cannot personally relate to this book's central topic, I still noticed that it made some sort of impact on me as the reader. It's impressive that the author was able to make a book so touching, as it's not every day that you see a book with this specific quality. Lastly, since I have nothing bad to say about this book, the illustrations were utterly breathtaking!! The way the illustrator worked with opacity, color, and blend was absolutely stunning, and I think that no other artist's art style would have done this book justice except for this one artist. All in all, both the author and the illustrator put so much love and care into creating this book, and I know for certain that so many kids are going to fall in love with this masterpiece. Bravo!

[Brianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Canada is a lovely little story based on a poem by an Ojibway author and brightly illustrated by an Anishinaabe artist. The poem incorporates a lot of beautiful imagery about Canada and invites the reader to listen to their ancestors to discover things they have been missing.

There are lovely illustrations of different parts of Canada in addition to the pictures of spirits and ancestors who take care of our world and the Spirit world. The Canadian pictures show the relationship between Indigenous culture and the land. They show the past and present as well as the connection we have to land and each other, and encourage us to all think about our own stories.

As a kindergarten teacher in an Ontario school, I know the importance of exposing students to stories such as this one for them to gain a greater understanding of Indigenous cultures and stories. The invitations to think, listen, feel and discover throughout the story, allow the readers and listeners to explore their own feelings and backgrounds. Overall a lovely story perfect for early grades.

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the eARC - all opinions in this review are my own.

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a young child is tasked with a school essay on what makes them proud to be Canadian, there is, at first, a struggle. But when the supportive, ever watchful ancestors reach out to give some loving guidance, the journey takes the child to places far bigger than expected. Canada: We Are the Story is a beautifully touching reflection on the ancestral history of Canada and how that ancestral power and memory remain a strong, steady heartbeat of the land.

The illustrations are absolutely gorgeous and vibrant, truly taking the reader on a journey through the spiritual world of the ancestors.

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Canada, We Are the Story, written by Richard Wagamese and illustrated by Joshua Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley is a beautiful story of family, tradition, and community. The book reminds the readers that their ancestors came before them, and pass on their traditions. The book also shows readers how they too are a part of the community, and that they are leaving an example for the future.
I loved the words and illustrations, and also the inclusion that was shows in the illustrations. Also really appreciated how the book seemed to show full circle, by having the children participate in familial and community traditions.
Thank you to NetGalley and to the author, publisher, and illustrator of this book for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The illustrations in this book are. absolutely. stunning! Every page is dynamic and full of colour. Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley's art brings Richard Wagamese’s poem to life in a way that’s engaging and accessible for younger readers. The visuals add so much depth and help younger readers connect with the words in ways they might not through the text alone. Even as an adult, I poured over every detail on each page. Beautiful.

I see this being a powerful read-aloud in the classroom. It opens the door to important conversations about Canadian identity and belonging with a focus on Indigenous voices. A beautiful, meaningful book that definitely earns a place on every elementary school shelf.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy.

[C Walton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful and important book for all children. This picture book is a beautiful poem that explores what makes a child proud to be Canadian. The story begins with a First Nations boy, who is struggling to complete his homework because he is not sure how to express his feelings of pride for his country. While sitting quietly, trying to start his project, he hears the elders, those that have lived before him, whispering that he needs to listen, He is encouraged to listen to the Ancestors in the Spirit World, who are gently trying to remind him of his rich and valuable heritage. Children will enjoy the vibrant illustrations that celebrate the landscapes and the traditions of the Canadian aboriginal people.

[Micheline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Was delightfully surprised by this one. What I thought was going to be a celebration of the First Nations, Inuit and Metis people turned out to be a celebration of Canada and the beautiful mosaic of diversity it holds. It implores people of all backgrounds and creeds to be still, listen closely and become attuned with the land and the generations that came before.

Maybe a little too metaphysical for itty bitty readers, but deeply touched this mama and I look forward to sharing it with my little girl again when she's old enough to understand the concepts of calm reflection.

Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley's illustrations are beautiful, capturing the beauty of Canada and its people wonderfully.

[Natasha Rain · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ⭐️ Stars

This is about a child struggling to do a school assignment about what makes them proud to be Canadian. The child looks to the ancestors for their assistance.
It's a story that is incredibly relatable and shows children that they are not alone. It shows a diverse group of people of modern Canada and in the ancestors.
I appreciate how simple the story is but also how much someone could dive into the story and pull out different things based on their own, personal experience.
Honestly, I will probably end up adding this book to my bookshelf for the art alone. This book has such incredible artwork with beautiful use of colours and artist techniques. I would absolutely suggest that teachers and parents add this book to their shelves for their kiddos to read.

[Kelly Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Canada: We Are the Story, skillfully written by Ojibway author Richard Wagamese and stunningly illustrated by Anishinaabe artist Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley, is a storybook that should find its way to every Canadian family's bookshelf, regardless of their background.
The story is inclusive and the illustrations feature people across Canada's mosaic, stressing the importance of all of us being part of a whole and of all of us coming together and, above all, listening.
This is also a wonderful introduction for children of the philosophies of indigenous peoples, and how we have more in common than we might think.
Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC of #CanadaWeAreTheStory.

[Royal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Both the story and illustrations have a beautiful, ethereal element, as this book is written with a lot of love. Canada is a poem written by Ojibway author Richard Wagamese and illustrated by Anishinaabe artist Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley. Though I didn’t completely understand the references to the indigenous elements in the book, I still think this is an incredibly important book, with regards to messages about honoring your culture, remembering your past and showing that people are interconnected. The illustrations are also beautiful.

Special thanks to Tundra Book Group, Swift Water Books, and NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest, independent review.

[Emma Denhoff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait to add a couple of copies to my classroom and gift one to my niece. The poem shares a powerful message about valuing connection and community, making it both meaningful and memorable. The illustrations are vibrant and beautifully detailed, perfectly complementing the text. The writing itself is clear and easy to follow, making it accessible for a wide range of readers. I especially appreciated that both the text and artwork were created by Canadian Indigenous artists!


**This review is based on an e-ARC generously provided to me through Netgalley**

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

My daughter and I enjoyed reading Canada by Richard Wagamese. The poetry was beautiful and poignant, and it was written in a simplistic soft way that I think is really approachable and appropriate for kids. The illustrations were beautiful, colourful and interesting for us to look at and talk about.

The theme of the poem/ story is really to ‘listen’, which I think is something we can all use practice and reminders to do!

We especially enjoyed seeing all the different languages way of writing / saying “listen.”

Thank you Tundra Books for the arc!

[Cathy Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully illustrated book celebrating Canada's diversity of people from an Indigenous perspective and calling on us as humans to be still and listen. I agree with other reviewers that the reflection aspect of the story may be lost on the youngest readers, but I think even very young children will enjoy the colorful illustrations. Great addition to any elementary/primary school classroom or child's home library.

Thank you to Tundra Book Group, Swift Water Books, and NetGalley for the eARC.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely GORGEOUS illustrations accompany Indigenous author and poet Richard Wagamese's words in this upcoming picture book about Indigenous heritage and ancestors. I am in awe of the artwork in this book and will be buying a copy to read to my children when it comes out. STUNNING. A must for library collections. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Rachael Salmon · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautifully illustrated and thought-provokingly written book, 'Canada: We Are the Story' takes the reader on a journey of discovery, accompanied by the Old Ones from the Spirit World. The book has a dreamy, floaty quality and readers can lose themselves in the images of old Canada (Kanata) through to the modern day. And in showing how we are connected even now, to the past, we can carry this forward into the future. Just lovely.
Thanks to #NetGalley for the ARC.

[Leona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Canada is a striking picture book that contains multitudes. The vivid visuals by Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley slide off the page and into your heart, while the powerful words by Richard Wagamese burrow into your soul. It shines a powerful light onto the complicated issue of Canadian identity and the strong urge to be true to yourself and your past.

Absolutely exquisite.

I received an early copy from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for a review.

[Tonya Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It starts off with a school assignment and leads to a reminder that we are made up of those who came before us. We our a part of our ancestors' journeys which includes traditions, languages, and places. The illustrations are beautifully done. I love the sentence- "Leave the greatest story that you can for those who come behind you." A wonderful reminder that what you do has an impact, no matter who you are.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.

[Lilithcarter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I receive the E-ARC of this book from Netgally in exchange for an honest review


We are living in times where stories like this are a lot more necessary than ever before. In a world that is full of hate, let’s learn from the people who have a lot of love to give, let’s share it and keep spreading the word

Such a lovely heartwarming story! Wonderful colour pallet that describes the sentiments of the book.

A must read not just for children

[MMJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully illustrated and poetically written ode that honours Canada and all Canadians, indigenous and immigrant. This book needs to be in every home, school and library. As an expat, I will be buying this to share my heritage with my children.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the free ARC. These opinions are wholly my own.

[Kat (kvcatnip) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Canada: We Are The Story begins with a boy who is trying to decide what to write for a school assignment on why he is proud to be Canadian. However, the book takes you on a sweeping adventure of our connectivity across lands, time, and space. It shows our connection as humans. This is a beautiful story of legacy, of what we leave behind us when we go.

[Brigid · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely gorgeous, dreamy illustrations. It focuses on listening to our ancestors - their wisdom, comfort, appreciation of nature. This is a good book for school age kids since the concepts are abstract (spirits ie). The text is quite repetitive. Kids will enjoy recognizing the different location/sites.

This ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would like to thank Tundra Book Group, Swift Water Books, and NetGalley for a free eARC of this title.

This is a beautiful story about the indigenous culture of Canada. It would be a great book for both indigenous/first nation people and other cultures who would like to learn about indigenous culture. It is metered prose, which I would consider poetry. I wonderful read.

[Tabitha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A beautiful poem given even more life, more emotion by equally beautiful art. Telling a story about a struggle with identity. About how important it is to remember the past, and the ones that came before, as well as to look to the present and the ones here now. Obviously, I am not the target audience for this book as I'm neither a child nor Indigenous, but this is a wonderful, informative story with a great message that everyone should read.

[Lori Emilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such beautiful words, with illustrations to match. This book will go down in history as the story of Canada. Who we are as people, who we were, and who we will become. For “we are all related” and “every story is the seed of a thousand more.” How can we dispute that? Every classroom and family will want to own this remarkable book. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance digital copy of this beautiful book.

[Tam Desai · Rating 5 out of 5]

This children’s book showcased a beautiful story of how indigenous youth experience Canada. The artwork throughout swept the reader along, capturing the dissonance the main character feels as well as the connection to the Old Ones. An excellent addition to bookshelves across the country!

#NetGalley

[The Thirsty Reader · Rating 3 out of 5]

The illustrations for the book are lovely.

I understand where the author was trying to go with the feeling of the book and I appreciate the tie ins to all the “old ones” but it felt a little repetitive.