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Canada: We Are the Story
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.
"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.
40 pages, Hardcover
Published March 17, 2026
About the author
Richard Wagamese
31 books1,641 followersRichard 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a wonderful children's book about finding and embracing your identity, culture, and finding belonging. I loved the artwork - it's so vibrant and really helped ingrain what the page was telling the reader. Books like this not only help children in the challenge of finding who they are, accepting themselves, but in cultivating their imagination through the imagery. I love Canada and I intend on purchasing a copy for my future children as well as copies for children of freiends and family. I would highly recommend this to everyone.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Very beautiful illustrations.
"It is only in coming together that we discover the Every story is the seed of a thousand more."
Great reminders of where we come from and who we are.
"It is only in coming together that we discover the Every story is the seed of a thousand more."
Great reminders of where we come from and who we are.
July 11, 2026
Canada: We Are The Story is adapted (by David A. Robertson!) from a poem Wagamese wrote. The poem is lovely and the art ranges from cute character art to beautiful landscape and spiritual pieces. It is an ode to the connection we feel to our ancestors in Canada, with a focus on Indigenous experiences but sharing in immigrant experiences as well. It's worth giving a read, especially compared to a lot of Canadian pride stuff!
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May 15, 2026“Canada: We Are the Story” is an elementary aged picture book by Native creators Richard Wagamese and Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley. The book borders on poetry and seems to be a mixture between a eulogy to Canada and a treatise on Native spiritual beliefs. Wagamese was an Ojibway author (this book is published posthumously), and Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley, who supplies the colorful illustrations, is Ojibway/Anishinaabe as well. Both of these artists belong(ed) to First Nations in Canada and both are well-acclaimed/awarded in their respective fields. Based on these accolades and on my reading of the book and its espousal of traditional Native beliefs, I believe this book to be accurate and reliable concerning its topic.
This book is really not so much a story as it is a manifesto. There is a story background, but it is shown in the pictures and never put into the dialogue. On the first couple page spreads, we see a young boy given a school assignment, and the top of the paper reads – “What Makes You Proud to Be Canadian?” As the boy chews his pencil, we see a ghostlike, spirit thing (not scary) with his hannd on the boy’s shoulder, and the book begins to talk about the “Ancestors in the Spirit World”.
The book then begins to lay out traditional Native spiritual beliefs about the past and future. I will describe a few of the beliefs:
---The ancestors in the Spirit World speak to us.
---There is no skin color in the Spirit World. (I find doubtful due to Revelation 5:9 – “by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.“)
---We are only spirits in the Spirit World. (We will have a body in the new heavens and the earth, although those dead have not received their new bodies yet. – “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body.” [Philippians 3:20] Jesus already has a new body, so all is not spirit in the Spirit World. – “See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me, and see. For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” [Luke 24:39] )
---Describes life as a “great, eternal circle” of energy. This is much like the whole Disney “Circle of Life” concept. Animism believes that we are all one, and that we are all part of one large family, including the animals and plants and water. They believe everything has a spirit and is interconnected. Thank God, the Bible comforts us that this is not so. As humans, we are made in the image of God and have been given this land to steward wisely and care for as God’s glorious gift to us. – “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him, male and female he created them. And God blessed them. And God said to them, ‘Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.’ And God said, ‘Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.'” [Genesis 1:27-29]
---This book talks about spirits being “with us even now” and calls them “a comforting presence.” Thankfully, the Lord never tells us what our ancestors who have gone on before us are doing right now (with the exception of the parable of Lazarus and Abraham). We know those who love Him are with Him, but we don’t know if they can see us or anything. He wants us to focus on Him, not be worrying about ghosts and what our relationship to them should be. Because of this, we don’t need to be afraid of ghost sickness or any of the maladies and fears that believers of animism put on themselves regarding their ancestors.
---The one belief in this book that I noticed that had a hint of truth in it was the “sacred breath of [..] Creation”. I’m not sure what the author meant by this statement or what animists believe surrounding breath and creation. But I do know what Jesus says about His breath being integral to life – “Then the LORD God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.” [Genesis 2:7] “He himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything.” [Acts 17:25] The breath of God is very important. Without it, we are who are dust would not exist.
In summary, this picture book focuses on the universal Native belief in, to borrow the Lakota phrase, “Mitakuye Oasin” – “we are all related”. This belief is the philosophy grounding many Native political movements, such as the fight against the Dakota Access Pipeline. This makes it difficult for people like me, who have no interest in Native animistic beliefs, but believe firmly that Native rights to land and water should be fought for and preserved. I love Native people, but standing up for Indigenous rights and cultures is such a dance when you refuse to submit to any higher standard but the Bible. And, for any Native person reading this, I love you so much and value your cultures insomuch as they submit to Christ, but I will not and cannot give you any hope but the Gospel. Jesus made you and gave you your unique languages and planted good in your cultures. And He says that the only way for you to reach Heaven is by believing that He died for the sins of whoever will turn from those sins, accept His grace, and submit to Him as Lord of their lives.
Spalding got it wrong. He beat your people. But Jesus was beaten for your people. Pratt got it wrong. He stole your languages. But Jesus created your languages. The Puritans got it wrong. They stole your country, a piece of heaven to you. But Jesus promises you a new country, Heaven itself. Please believe in your Maker, the only One who cared enough to die for you. I know some of you will believe. Jesus has promised it, and this comforts me. To you who will believe, I gladly say, “My relations.”
This book tries to bring people together as one. But we are evil peoples. Without Jesus we will never be one. But He has promised. He will make us one. “I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.” (John 17:23)
The only fruit I can hypothesize from this book is for teaching older children about this belief system. It shows it in full color. But I would never hand it to its target group, a young child.
I do not recommend this book.
This book is really not so much a story as it is a manifesto. There is a story background, but it is shown in the pictures and never put into the dialogue. On the first couple page spreads, we see a young boy given a school assignment, and the top of the paper reads – “What Makes You Proud to Be Canadian?” As the boy chews his pencil, we see a ghostlike, spirit thing (not scary) with his hannd on the boy’s shoulder, and the book begins to talk about the “Ancestors in the Spirit World”.
The book then begins to lay out traditional Native spiritual beliefs about the past and future. I will describe a few of the beliefs:
---The ancestors in the Spirit World speak to us.
---There is no skin color in the Spirit World. (I find doubtful due to Revelation 5:9 – “by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.“)
---We are only spirits in the Spirit World. (We will have a body in the new heavens and the earth, although those dead have not received their new bodies yet. – “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body.” [Philippians 3:20] Jesus already has a new body, so all is not spirit in the Spirit World. – “See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me, and see. For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” [Luke 24:39] )
---Describes life as a “great, eternal circle” of energy. This is much like the whole Disney “Circle of Life” concept. Animism believes that we are all one, and that we are all part of one large family, including the animals and plants and water. They believe everything has a spirit and is interconnected. Thank God, the Bible comforts us that this is not so. As humans, we are made in the image of God and have been given this land to steward wisely and care for as God’s glorious gift to us. – “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him, male and female he created them. And God blessed them. And God said to them, ‘Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.’ And God said, ‘Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.'” [Genesis 1:27-29]
---This book talks about spirits being “with us even now” and calls them “a comforting presence.” Thankfully, the Lord never tells us what our ancestors who have gone on before us are doing right now (with the exception of the parable of Lazarus and Abraham). We know those who love Him are with Him, but we don’t know if they can see us or anything. He wants us to focus on Him, not be worrying about ghosts and what our relationship to them should be. Because of this, we don’t need to be afraid of ghost sickness or any of the maladies and fears that believers of animism put on themselves regarding their ancestors.
---The one belief in this book that I noticed that had a hint of truth in it was the “sacred breath of [..] Creation”. I’m not sure what the author meant by this statement or what animists believe surrounding breath and creation. But I do know what Jesus says about His breath being integral to life – “Then the LORD God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.” [Genesis 2:7] “He himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything.” [Acts 17:25] The breath of God is very important. Without it, we are who are dust would not exist.
In summary, this picture book focuses on the universal Native belief in, to borrow the Lakota phrase, “Mitakuye Oasin” – “we are all related”. This belief is the philosophy grounding many Native political movements, such as the fight against the Dakota Access Pipeline. This makes it difficult for people like me, who have no interest in Native animistic beliefs, but believe firmly that Native rights to land and water should be fought for and preserved. I love Native people, but standing up for Indigenous rights and cultures is such a dance when you refuse to submit to any higher standard but the Bible. And, for any Native person reading this, I love you so much and value your cultures insomuch as they submit to Christ, but I will not and cannot give you any hope but the Gospel. Jesus made you and gave you your unique languages and planted good in your cultures. And He says that the only way for you to reach Heaven is by believing that He died for the sins of whoever will turn from those sins, accept His grace, and submit to Him as Lord of their lives.
Spalding got it wrong. He beat your people. But Jesus was beaten for your people. Pratt got it wrong. He stole your languages. But Jesus created your languages. The Puritans got it wrong. They stole your country, a piece of heaven to you. But Jesus promises you a new country, Heaven itself. Please believe in your Maker, the only One who cared enough to die for you. I know some of you will believe. Jesus has promised it, and this comforts me. To you who will believe, I gladly say, “My relations.”
This book tries to bring people together as one. But we are evil peoples. Without Jesus we will never be one. But He has promised. He will make us one. “I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.” (John 17:23)
The only fruit I can hypothesize from this book is for teaching older children about this belief system. It shows it in full color. But I would never hand it to its target group, a young child.
I do not recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Although I'm not Canadian, I'm an Alaskan. Our indigenous populations share a heritage, so I was drawn immediately to this book. The cover art with the aurora definitely caught my eye. With stunning artwork throughout and powerful words, this one is a winner. Seen through the eyes of an indigenous child tasked with writing an essay about why they're proud to be Canadian, it's a lovely, beautifully illustrated reminder of what all of us have in common. It encourages us to honor our past while looking to the future.
Given that I read this soon after the controversy surrounding Bad Bunny's Super Bowl half-time show, it carried even more meaning. It is not just a strong testimony to not just ones own cultural identity but of learning where you fit in the grand scheme of things. There's something of a dreamlike quality to many of the illustrations, reminding us of the thin veil between our past and present. Written for children, its strength is how it honors the past and those who came before us, no matter what their origin, but gives a sense of how we fit into the whole, how we're shaped by all those who came before us. I've spent time working on my own family tree which harbors long gone souls from faraway places who made our country strong, including family who came on the Mayflower, but all were met by indigenous people who also helped shape the world as we know it. As such, I could sense the awe felt by the child in the book as they meet their ancestors and are reminded to celebrate not just past achievements but the present and future yet to come. I liked the subtle blending of "old" style and modern clothing used in some of the illustrations, a subtle shading of past and present. The artist's renderings of the Northern Lights was stunning, I must say, and captured that sense of awe well. Even today they are mystical as the wave and dance above us, reminding us that our ancestors also must have watched in awe. The spreads featuring the aurora were, no surprise, my personal favorites.
On a less mystical plain, the artwork is largely done in earth tones, with the blues ancestors are pictured in perhaps meant to convey that thin veil between past and present. You see the ancestor spirits surrounding the child in one rendering, another powerful image. To paraphrase the author, the ultimate message is that we are all one, we're all family, mankind. Different parts of Canada seem to be shown, too, again a reminder that we are bigger than one soul, living in a diverse world. We can learn from one another and bring our knowledge to the future. Obviously I could ramble on longer but will simply say this is a beautifully done book with stunning artwork and words that mean something rather than just entertain. My sincere thanks to #TundraBookGroup for allowing me early access to this lovely work. As an Alaskan, Canada is my closest neighbor and our worlds do blend at times, I'll certainly have this book firmly in my mind the next time I take in a Native gathering.
Given that I read this soon after the controversy surrounding Bad Bunny's Super Bowl half-time show, it carried even more meaning. It is not just a strong testimony to not just ones own cultural identity but of learning where you fit in the grand scheme of things. There's something of a dreamlike quality to many of the illustrations, reminding us of the thin veil between our past and present. Written for children, its strength is how it honors the past and those who came before us, no matter what their origin, but gives a sense of how we fit into the whole, how we're shaped by all those who came before us. I've spent time working on my own family tree which harbors long gone souls from faraway places who made our country strong, including family who came on the Mayflower, but all were met by indigenous people who also helped shape the world as we know it. As such, I could sense the awe felt by the child in the book as they meet their ancestors and are reminded to celebrate not just past achievements but the present and future yet to come. I liked the subtle blending of "old" style and modern clothing used in some of the illustrations, a subtle shading of past and present. The artist's renderings of the Northern Lights was stunning, I must say, and captured that sense of awe well. Even today they are mystical as the wave and dance above us, reminding us that our ancestors also must have watched in awe. The spreads featuring the aurora were, no surprise, my personal favorites.
On a less mystical plain, the artwork is largely done in earth tones, with the blues ancestors are pictured in perhaps meant to convey that thin veil between past and present. You see the ancestor spirits surrounding the child in one rendering, another powerful image. To paraphrase the author, the ultimate message is that we are all one, we're all family, mankind. Different parts of Canada seem to be shown, too, again a reminder that we are bigger than one soul, living in a diverse world. We can learn from one another and bring our knowledge to the future. Obviously I could ramble on longer but will simply say this is a beautifully done book with stunning artwork and words that mean something rather than just entertain. My sincere thanks to #TundraBookGroup for allowing me early access to this lovely work. As an Alaskan, Canada is my closest neighbor and our worlds do blend at times, I'll certainly have this book firmly in my mind the next time I take in a Native gathering.
August 14, 2025
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.
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.
July 28, 2025
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
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
Read
July 30, 2025Thank 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
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
May 25, 2026
This is a beautiful book with an important message. The text was adapted posthumously by David R. Robertson from a poem by the author. The story told through the illustrations begins with a child who has a school paper to write about "What makes you proud to be a Canadian?" The narration, written in the second person, tells the reader and child simultaneously that they should listen to the ancestors. The ancestors in the Spirit World are all around with their own stories if you listen. The story then highlights the great locations throughout Canada/Kanata. In the end, the child writes about belonging as the ancestors have advised to "...leave the greatest story you can for those who come behind you." I love how this book focuses on the big picture of humanity, getting the reader to think more philosophically. It contains lots of positive messages that I hope young readers will comprehend.
The strength of this book is the illustrations. They remind me of Michaela Goade's illustrations in The Water Protectors. While Goade used watercolors, Pawis-Steckley uses Procreate and Photoshop with stronger line art. The colors are just as bold and beautiful, combining breathtaking landscapes and Indigenous art symbols. It is evident that great care went into the creation of all the artwork, including the cover art with "Canada" in a shimmery silver foil in front of captivating blue/purple Northern Lights.
I can see this book in any Canadian museum or gift shop. I strongly recommend it for the illustrations and thoughtful storytelling.
I received an advanced copy of this book from Tundra Books through LibraryThing's Early Readers program in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This adapted version of "The Poem of Canada," by Richard Wagamese, draws the attention of new generations to the power of listening. As a digitally illustrated picture book with cartoonish imagery, it is targeted towards younger readers. The protagonist of the illustrations is a middle or high school level student looking depressed, lost and unmotivated. Challenged by a writing assignment, he takes on a journey of reflection through the spiritual world where ancestors guide and share wisdom with him. Along the way he learns what makes a proud Canadian, discovering the value of heritage, self-awareness and his place in the world through the legacy of generations. The poem itself celebrates Canadians and the territory that they have chosen to call home. This version succeeds in retaining the message of the original poem, that of the value of ancestral wisdom, but fails to retain the rhythm of the verses found in its original format. Though the result at times feels unnecessarily repetitive and loses some sentiment, it is a welcome introduction to one of Canada's most talented Ojibwe writers and the traditions of his ancestral roots. The inclusive imagery represents non-binary and culturally diverse populations.
Out March 17, 2026! Thank you to NetGalley and Swift Water Books for sharing a digital copy with me to review. All opinions are my own. No AI used.
Out March 17, 2026! Thank you to NetGalley and Swift Water Books for sharing a digital copy with me to review. All opinions are my own. No AI used.
July 16, 2025
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.
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.
August 4, 2025
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!
August 8, 2025
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Oh my… I love the illustrations in this book. They are so powerful and deeply emotional.
For the last few years I've been building my family tree (and helping others with theirs), and I often describe that feeling you get in the archives - when you suddenly “find” a new branch and it feels like you're not alone anymore, like someone from the past is gently reaching back.
This book gave me the exact same feeling.
One illustration especially stayed with me: a boy sitting at the table, and it's almost as if he feels a soft touch on his shoulder - and behind him stand people from earlier generations, like support, like memory, like roots.
So beautiful. So moving. I hope more of us can feel that kind of connection - and learn to cherish not only our own family history, but also the land where we live and raise our children.
Thanks NetGalley for an honor to read this beautiful ARC
For the last few years I've been building my family tree (and helping others with theirs), and I often describe that feeling you get in the archives - when you suddenly “find” a new branch and it feels like you're not alone anymore, like someone from the past is gently reaching back.
This book gave me the exact same feeling.
One illustration especially stayed with me: a boy sitting at the table, and it's almost as if he feels a soft touch on his shoulder - and behind him stand people from earlier generations, like support, like memory, like roots.
So beautiful. So moving. I hope more of us can feel that kind of connection - and learn to cherish not only our own family history, but also the land where we live and raise our children.
Thanks NetGalley for an honor to read this beautiful ARC
June 20, 2025
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.
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.
July 17, 2025
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.
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.
August 1, 2025
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.
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.
September 2, 2025
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.
October 2, 2025
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A beautiful book about listening to all those who have come before us and using that knowledge and wisdom to move forward in our own lives.
Filled with colorful illustrations, this is a fantastic book about our collective past, our ancestors, and how learning from them benefits all of us right now.
This is a great book to introduce littles to the Indigenous culture and how they listen for the ancestors words and spirits to guide them and how we can, even if our belief systems are different, do the same thing.
If you listen hard enough, you can hear them.
Thank you for NetGalley, Richard Wagamese, Mangeshing Pawis-Steckley - Illustrator, and Tundra Book Group/Tundra Books/Swift Water for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Filled with colorful illustrations, this is a fantastic book about our collective past, our ancestors, and how learning from them benefits all of us right now.
This is a great book to introduce littles to the Indigenous culture and how they listen for the ancestors words and spirits to guide them and how we can, even if our belief systems are different, do the same thing.
If you listen hard enough, you can hear them.
Thank you for NetGalley, Richard Wagamese, Mangeshing Pawis-Steckley - Illustrator, and Tundra Book Group/Tundra Books/Swift Water for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2025
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.
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.
July 26, 2025
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.
Special thanks to Tundra Book Group, Swift Water Books, and NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest, independent review.
August 27, 2025
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**
**This review is based on an e-ARC generously provided to me through Netgalley**
June 15, 2026
🍁🇨🇦—STUNNING!! This beautiful kids' book was wonderfully illustrated and gorgeously penned by late Canadian author, Richard Wagamese—very unlike We Are Who We Are: An Ode to Indigenous Heroes Past and Present that I read yesterday.
If you want to gift a child in your life a very special book about life in Canada, check this one out.
5 “We –will–be–known–forever–by–the–tracks–we–leave” stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you want to gift a child in your life a very special book about life in Canada, check this one out.
5 “We –will–be–known–forever–by–the–tracks–we–leave” stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
July 30, 2025
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!
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!
October 3, 2025
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.
Thank you to Tundra Book Group, Swift Water Books, and NetGalley for the eARC.
May 16, 2026
A reimagined version of "The Canada Poem" by Richard Wagamese, this book "Canada" is beautifully illustrated by Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley and brings the story of our country and the Indigenous people within it to a new generation. This book is a must-have for all schools and libraries in Canada and is one that I plan to read to my students again and again. I am so glad that this book was created and think it is such a special tribute to a great Indigenous Canadian author. Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for giving me the chance to preview and review this book!
June 30, 2025
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.
July 3, 2025
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.
Thanks to #NetGalley for the ARC.
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