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Stand Like a Cedar
When you go for a walk in nature, who do you see? What do you hear?
Award-winning storyteller Nicola I. Campbell shows what it means “to stand like a cedar” on this beautiful journey of discovery through the wilderness. Learn the names of animals in the Nłe7kepmxcín or Halq’emeylem languages as well as the teachings they have for us. Experience a celebration of sustainability and connection to the land through lyrical storytelling and Carrielynn Victor’s breathtaking art in this children’s illustrated book.
Discover new sights and sounds with every read.
Award-winning storyteller Nicola I. Campbell shows what it means “to stand like a cedar” on this beautiful journey of discovery through the wilderness. Learn the names of animals in the Nłe7kepmxcín or Halq’emeylem languages as well as the teachings they have for us. Experience a celebration of sustainability and connection to the land through lyrical storytelling and Carrielynn Victor’s breathtaking art in this children’s illustrated book.
Discover new sights and sounds with every read.
40 pages, Hardcover
First published February 23, 2021
2 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
March 3, 2021
Thank to you Highwater Press for an eARC of this book.
This beautiful book written by Nicola I. Campbell and illustrated by Carrielyn Victor celebrates the natural world, and illustrates the sights and sounds the reader would experience if they were able to slip into its pages. From the return of the loon in the springtime, through new growth and berries in the early part of summer, to hunting and fishing in the latter part, this book focuses on connection to stories and traditions, and what they have to teach us about caring for the world. Animal names are taught in the Nłe7kepmxcín or Halq’emeylem languages, along with the phonetic pronunciation at the end of the book. I love the colors used in the illustrations, and how well they represent the text and its message.
I will definitely be adding this book to my collection, and I think it is a must have for Canadian public and school libraries.
This beautiful book written by Nicola I. Campbell and illustrated by Carrielyn Victor celebrates the natural world, and illustrates the sights and sounds the reader would experience if they were able to slip into its pages. From the return of the loon in the springtime, through new growth and berries in the early part of summer, to hunting and fishing in the latter part, this book focuses on connection to stories and traditions, and what they have to teach us about caring for the world. Animal names are taught in the Nłe7kepmxcín or Halq’emeylem languages, along with the phonetic pronunciation at the end of the book. I love the colors used in the illustrations, and how well they represent the text and its message.
I will definitely be adding this book to my collection, and I think it is a must have for Canadian public and school libraries.
January 11, 2021
A beautiful story written in English but with key Salish words included. At the back of the book there is a translation guide with tips on how to pronounce these words. A simple, yet powerful story depicting many indigenous traditions. Great for kids of all ages.
February 21, 2022
C’est une oeuvre en toute simplicité qui décrit certaines traditions autochtones. J’ai beaucoup aimé le glossaire et le guide de prononciation à la toute fin ainsi que les différents mots intégrés directement au texte avec la traduction au dessus !
February 18, 2021
Thank you to Teresa Johnson from Portage Press and Highland Press for sharing a digital copy of Stand Like A Cedar by Nicola I. Campbell and illustrated by Carrielynn Victor.
On my first reading of any picture book, I read the pictures. I became lost and calmed in these illustrations capturing the beauty of the land and the people. The misty cover with the tall cedar and the soft muted greens and yellows of the endpapers set a tone of tranquillity. The opening spread with the canoe and reflections of the people on the still water; allows the reader to hear the ísweł (loon) because you know it is quiet. There are so many artistic details that draw you in without the words that I knew this was special. The feet you cannot see on a morning walk, the blueberry-stained mouth of joy, the pride in a catch, the knowledge and gratitude stored in a jar are just some of the examples of the artistry of Carrielynn Victor. Stand Like A Cedar is my first experience with this artist, and I eagerly await to see more books illustrated by her. I cannot wait to hold a physical copy to see the beauty of the two-page spreads over the digital version I had on the computer, where I know it loses some of its brilliance.
In the second reading, I focus on the author's words and Nicola I. Campbell delivers so much content to unpack in her poetic sentences. The seasons provide the structure where we learn of long journeys, new life, love and gathering, history and traditions, the circle of life and the courage of ancestors to keep alive cultures and look after the land. All of the lessons are weaved together from simple questions in the Nłe7kepmxcín or Halq’emeylem languages; Swet he wixtxw? (Who did you see?) and Swet he qenimnxw (Who did you hear?).
Finally, I read a third time, appreciating the collaboration of the author and the illustrator. Here is where the magic happens, the reason why I say picture books are for everyone. There is a symbiotic relationship between the art and the words in Stand Like A Cedar. One example is when Nicola I. Campbell talks about the circle of life and descendants, Carrielynne Victor has a child that appears to be on a rock formation, but that rock is more than that. It is of an ancestor, the child's foundation.
The back matter includes information about how Indigenous languages may be endangered or completely lost due to colonization and residential schools. It is a vital step on our path to Truth and Reconciliation for publishing to continue to have books in dual languages or the inclusion of words in Indigenous languages such as this book. There is also a glossary of terms, a pronunciation and a translation guide to help readers pronounce the different words and phrases correctly that I found helpful and used.
Stand Like A Cedar is another gift by respected author Nicola I. Campbell and talented artist Carrielynn Victor. A beautiful tribute to Indigenous Peoples; it shares their respect for Turtle Island from the gifts from the earth to the lessons provided by the many creatures who inhabit her. The story models how all family members contribute to helping children grow and that all aspects of nature offer lessons. Every time I read this book, I find something new to appreciate and hope it will find its way to homes, classrooms and libraries when released on February 23.
On my first reading of any picture book, I read the pictures. I became lost and calmed in these illustrations capturing the beauty of the land and the people. The misty cover with the tall cedar and the soft muted greens and yellows of the endpapers set a tone of tranquillity. The opening spread with the canoe and reflections of the people on the still water; allows the reader to hear the ísweł (loon) because you know it is quiet. There are so many artistic details that draw you in without the words that I knew this was special. The feet you cannot see on a morning walk, the blueberry-stained mouth of joy, the pride in a catch, the knowledge and gratitude stored in a jar are just some of the examples of the artistry of Carrielynn Victor. Stand Like A Cedar is my first experience with this artist, and I eagerly await to see more books illustrated by her. I cannot wait to hold a physical copy to see the beauty of the two-page spreads over the digital version I had on the computer, where I know it loses some of its brilliance.
In the second reading, I focus on the author's words and Nicola I. Campbell delivers so much content to unpack in her poetic sentences. The seasons provide the structure where we learn of long journeys, new life, love and gathering, history and traditions, the circle of life and the courage of ancestors to keep alive cultures and look after the land. All of the lessons are weaved together from simple questions in the Nłe7kepmxcín or Halq’emeylem languages; Swet he wixtxw? (Who did you see?) and Swet he qenimnxw (Who did you hear?).
Finally, I read a third time, appreciating the collaboration of the author and the illustrator. Here is where the magic happens, the reason why I say picture books are for everyone. There is a symbiotic relationship between the art and the words in Stand Like A Cedar. One example is when Nicola I. Campbell talks about the circle of life and descendants, Carrielynne Victor has a child that appears to be on a rock formation, but that rock is more than that. It is of an ancestor, the child's foundation.
The back matter includes information about how Indigenous languages may be endangered or completely lost due to colonization and residential schools. It is a vital step on our path to Truth and Reconciliation for publishing to continue to have books in dual languages or the inclusion of words in Indigenous languages such as this book. There is also a glossary of terms, a pronunciation and a translation guide to help readers pronounce the different words and phrases correctly that I found helpful and used.
Stand Like A Cedar is another gift by respected author Nicola I. Campbell and talented artist Carrielynn Victor. A beautiful tribute to Indigenous Peoples; it shares their respect for Turtle Island from the gifts from the earth to the lessons provided by the many creatures who inhabit her. The story models how all family members contribute to helping children grow and that all aspects of nature offer lessons. Every time I read this book, I find something new to appreciate and hope it will find its way to homes, classrooms and libraries when released on February 23.
October 16, 2021
From the author of Shi-shi-etko, this beautiful book will win your heart with its storytelling delivery of connecting to the land. Another perfect addition to your authentic Indigenous book collection in the learning commons.
September 25, 2023
study pronunciations beforehand
March 22, 2021
Stand Like a Cedar by Nicola I. Campbell and Carrielynn Victor stands as a reminder of the gifts of the land and our responsibility to her. It is a beautiful love letter and a call to respect the land and creatures around us.
Nicola I. Campbell effortlessly weaves traditional Salish words and phrases from several of the Salish dialects into this inspiring story of presence. We follow Indigenous children through all the seasons as they explore the land and the earth. Throughout readers are asked questions: “Who did you see?” and “Who did you hear?” Flowing from season to season, readers enjoy the lyrical text and the poignant illustrations, reminders of the traditions, new and old, of the Indigenous communities in British Columbia as well as whispers of the teaching of all the creatures big and small. The story is a moving meditation and a love letter to the life sustaining earth. It is a stark reminder of what will happen if we don’t honour Mother Earth and respect her as is our duty as guests and caretakers of the land.
Carrielynn Victor honours the flowing text through her gorgeous illustrations, inviting readers into the forests, mountains, rivers and communities of the British Columbia Interior.
Stand Like a Cedar is a book brought to life by two women from Salish Nations. It is a reminder to readers everywhere to take a minute, head out into the wilderness, wherever you can find it, to listen and observe. You can do it regardless of where you live, rural countryside or large metropolitan city, there are wild places everywhere.
For educators and parents there is a pronunciation guide at the back of the book, with the different words and phrases from the different Salish dialects listed to help guide your reading. There is also a QR code that will take you to the Highwater Press website where you will have access to a teaching guide in spring 2021.
Nicola I. Campbell effortlessly weaves traditional Salish words and phrases from several of the Salish dialects into this inspiring story of presence. We follow Indigenous children through all the seasons as they explore the land and the earth. Throughout readers are asked questions: “Who did you see?” and “Who did you hear?” Flowing from season to season, readers enjoy the lyrical text and the poignant illustrations, reminders of the traditions, new and old, of the Indigenous communities in British Columbia as well as whispers of the teaching of all the creatures big and small. The story is a moving meditation and a love letter to the life sustaining earth. It is a stark reminder of what will happen if we don’t honour Mother Earth and respect her as is our duty as guests and caretakers of the land.
Carrielynn Victor honours the flowing text through her gorgeous illustrations, inviting readers into the forests, mountains, rivers and communities of the British Columbia Interior.
Stand Like a Cedar is a book brought to life by two women from Salish Nations. It is a reminder to readers everywhere to take a minute, head out into the wilderness, wherever you can find it, to listen and observe. You can do it regardless of where you live, rural countryside or large metropolitan city, there are wild places everywhere.
For educators and parents there is a pronunciation guide at the back of the book, with the different words and phrases from the different Salish dialects listed to help guide your reading. There is also a QR code that will take you to the Highwater Press website where you will have access to a teaching guide in spring 2021.
March 2, 2022
I really want to like this more, but unfortunately there seemed to be several issues.
I really enjoyed the blending of languages, but all of the font needed to be larger! Make the Salish words pop! I also with there had continued to be a consistent translations instead of just when the Salish word is introduced. At the back of the book, the pronunciation guide is really really hard! I hope in the future, having a linguist help create the guide would be better for exclusively English speakers like myself at least have a chance at trying to pronounce the words.
I also loved the journey through the seasons, and the sensory/nature awareness questions, but I felt like they needed to be more consistent to have a better flow.
Finally the illustrations were all over the place! Some images were clear, related to the text, and pleasant. While other images ranged from disconnected (Especially the part about the snake! Where is the snake? Why is it just a girl running away from the viewer? These thing are all contradictory to the text!) to a little jarring because they went from realistic looking faces to highly abstracted or cartoonish faces. I thought maybe this was the collaborative work of multiple illustrators, but it does seem to be exclusively Carrielynn Victor which makes the choices odd.
I really enjoyed the blending of languages, but all of the font needed to be larger! Make the Salish words pop! I also with there had continued to be a consistent translations instead of just when the Salish word is introduced. At the back of the book, the pronunciation guide is really really hard! I hope in the future, having a linguist help create the guide would be better for exclusively English speakers like myself at least have a chance at trying to pronounce the words.
I also loved the journey through the seasons, and the sensory/nature awareness questions, but I felt like they needed to be more consistent to have a better flow.
Finally the illustrations were all over the place! Some images were clear, related to the text, and pleasant. While other images ranged from disconnected (Especially the part about the snake! Where is the snake? Why is it just a girl running away from the viewer? These thing are all contradictory to the text!) to a little jarring because they went from realistic looking faces to highly abstracted or cartoonish faces. I thought maybe this was the collaborative work of multiple illustrators, but it does seem to be exclusively Carrielynn Victor which makes the choices odd.
January 25, 2024
In many ways this book reads like a prayer, a poetic practice of gratitude for the land, plants, and living creatures that collectively sustain all of life. Similar to Mii maanda ezhi-gkendmaanh / This Is How I Know: Niibing, dgwaagig, bboong, mnookmig dbaadjigaade maanpii mzin’igning / A Book about the Seasons, this book travels through different ecologies of the land and seasons of transformation, noting the smallest changes and stating gratitue.
I especially like the refrain:
"I needed to visit our sacred tmixw, temexw, tmxulaxw. (land/earth, land/earth, land/earth)"
It suggests that the land/earth is a living spirit force with multiple dimensions that can be approached for physical and spiritual restoration and anchoring. I can tell just from this first read of this book that my worldview and knowledge of the land/earth is limited and thus I can only access so much. I have much to learn from this book and look forward to returning to it for future readings.
Used: Library
I especially like the refrain:
"I needed to visit our sacred tmixw, temexw, tmxulaxw. (land/earth, land/earth, land/earth)"
It suggests that the land/earth is a living spirit force with multiple dimensions that can be approached for physical and spiritual restoration and anchoring. I can tell just from this first read of this book that my worldview and knowledge of the land/earth is limited and thus I can only access so much. I have much to learn from this book and look forward to returning to it for future readings.
Used: Library
August 17, 2025
Learn the names of animals in the
Nle?kepmxcin and Halq'emeylem languages. Helping to discover new sights and sounds of how to read a book.
A small English text to support us while learning a new language is provided on each page which I found extremely helpful to keep me understanding and hooked to each page of the detailed journey through our 5 senses of nature.
Each page holds lyrical, poems, verses, stories, and knowledge that each child and adult should share.
A favorite line of mine in this book is:
" Iswek swam with us
She shared a song
about her spring flight
returning from a long winter far away
I am grateful for all newborn animals
making these first footsteps across the land"
Artwork along with the words brings you to feel as if you are walking beside the people and animals sharing their views and stories.
Nle?kepmxcin and Halq'emeylem languages. Helping to discover new sights and sounds of how to read a book.
A small English text to support us while learning a new language is provided on each page which I found extremely helpful to keep me understanding and hooked to each page of the detailed journey through our 5 senses of nature.
Each page holds lyrical, poems, verses, stories, and knowledge that each child and adult should share.
A favorite line of mine in this book is:
" Iswek swam with us
She shared a song
about her spring flight
returning from a long winter far away
I am grateful for all newborn animals
making these first footsteps across the land"
Artwork along with the words brings you to feel as if you are walking beside the people and animals sharing their views and stories.
April 5, 2021
A rich and reverent journey through the seasons, Stand Like a Cedar shares different experiences of being with the land—"paddling in our cedar canoe", "running along a mountain trail / one blustery summer day", "fishing at our great river." This book is poetically written and, though written in the first person, the stories it shares are actually of various Coast Salish/Interior Salish children and families. I loved the way the main text shares important words in Nłe7kepmxcín or Halq’emeylem languages, with the English translation written in very small type above the Nłe7kepmxcín or Halq’emeylem word.
Themes: Nature, Connection, Seasons, Gratitude
Age range: Preschool-Early Elementary
Themes: Nature, Connection, Seasons, Gratitude
Age range: Preschool-Early Elementary
October 3, 2022
A child experiences nature with her Indigenous family. She tells about the animals she sees and hears, the food that is caught and gathered, and the traditions she participates in. Beautiful and thoughtful, a quiet read that reflects on all the seasons and the beauty of nature.
Although the text is in English, many key words are replaced by Salish words. Victor’s illustrations are perfect - the story can be read just by looking at the pictures but is made so much richer by the poetic text. There is a glossary and a pronunciation guide, along with a note about the Salish languages.
Cross posted to http://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com
Although the text is in English, many key words are replaced by Salish words. Victor’s illustrations are perfect - the story can be read just by looking at the pictures but is made so much richer by the poetic text. There is a glossary and a pronunciation guide, along with a note about the Salish languages.
Cross posted to http://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com
September 4, 2024
as others have suggested, i reccomend studying the glossary before you read, or flipping back and forth as needed. i don't think that's worth taking a star off it: if you're an english speaker unfamiliar with this language/group of languages, approach it like you would any other. it's complicated, it takes practice, there's nothing wrong with that.
when i share ukrainian words and stories with white canadians, i don't get the same reaction as i'm seeing in a couple reviews and comments. i get people patiently asking for help and practicing how to shape words like me. you're not going to understand all the nuances of a language or a people with one read of a short book.
when i share ukrainian words and stories with white canadians, i don't get the same reaction as i'm seeing in a couple reviews and comments. i get people patiently asking for help and practicing how to shape words like me. you're not going to understand all the nuances of a language or a people with one read of a short book.
May 29, 2021
Beautiful! Really enjoyed this book that is so connected to the land around where I live. I hope all the schools in the Nłe7kepmxcín and Halq’emeylem language areas incorporate this book in their classrooms from K to grade 2, and are able to consult their contacts to practice pronunciation. It would be great to integrate that into the classroom.
For at-home reading, there is a pronunciation guide in the back and some of those words can be found in audio recordings online (Stó:lō nation has a bunch of key words on their site).
For at-home reading, there is a pronunciation guide in the back and some of those words can be found in audio recordings online (Stó:lō nation has a bunch of key words on their site).
November 18, 2022
A gorgeous tribute to the earth and acknowledgment of all the earth provides through the seasons. Each page offers praise and invites a young reader to tell what they hear, see, feel, eat in their journey through the land. Several important Native American cultural events are honored in this tribute to the earth. Native language words and questions are sprinkled throughout the story with translations. End papers show translations from various Salish words and a QR code provides entree into audio pronunciations of the words.
June 21, 2021
I read this to see if it belongs in our Local History collection. It has some vocabulary terms from tribal groups across the Strait, but it's very general Northwest Coast, not location-specific.
The illustrations are boldly colored, although the drawing style seems a little inconsistent at times. The text is a little awkward in places, sometimes seeming like it is supposed to fit a meter, other times ignoring it. Maybe not the first choice for a story time, but definitely readable.
The illustrations are boldly colored, although the drawing style seems a little inconsistent at times. The text is a little awkward in places, sometimes seeming like it is supposed to fit a meter, other times ignoring it. Maybe not the first choice for a story time, but definitely readable.
September 5, 2021
I've loved everything I've read from Nicola I. Campbell, so I am not surprised to say that I did love Stand Like A Cedar. It serves as a beautiful ode to nature, culture, and the changing of the seasons, with stunning illustrations to accompany the text. The inclusion of Nłeʔkepmxcin words and phrases was lovely (although I personally did not find the pronunciation guide helpful) and added to the story. Overall it is a gorgeous picture book, and I would definitely recommend it.
April 20, 2022
I liked the book but I loved the pictures.
I wish the font was just a wee bit bigger especially when seeing the English translation above some of the words. I could figure most of it out though but I guess I'm getting old and my reading glasses aren't strong enough.
But I would highly suggest this book to everyone. It is very peaceful and a great book on respecting nature.
I wish the font was just a wee bit bigger especially when seeing the English translation above some of the words. I could figure most of it out though but I guess I'm getting old and my reading glasses aren't strong enough.
But I would highly suggest this book to everyone. It is very peaceful and a great book on respecting nature.
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September 2, 2024
A beautifully written children’s story about the importance of knowing who you are and where you come from. Using a mixture of indigenous dialects with English, author Campbell and Victor craft a magical story about life. I loved that there is a glossy/pronunciation guide but there is also a translation on each page too. Great story.
Thank you Highwater Press for the gifted copy.
Thank you Highwater Press for the gifted copy.
May 13, 2025
This is a beautiful picture book that promotes the beauty and wonder of the forest and our connection to the earth. Children will appreciate the pattern of the onomatopoeia followed by description of the various elements of forest life. The inclusion of Indigenous language words is supported with a pronunciation guide.
February 23, 2021
A beautifully articulated book about the changing seasons and the connection to nature, family and oneself. A book about being grateful for the simple things in life. We really enjoyed the imagery and the references to the native language.
June 10, 2021
I adore this book (and many of the books I’ve been reading that incorporate words and phrases from indigenous languages.) Gratitude, an awareness of our relationship to the earth and all beings we share her with, and pride in oneself and one’s culture are what I picked up on while reading this.
December 2, 2021
Really nice book that is a great read aloud. Great to pair with "Treaty Words for as long as the Rivers Flow" by Aimee Craft. Wonderfully include a glossary of Salish languages and how to pronounce the words!
June 27, 2021
Beautiful, nicely structured, with excellent regional and cultural content. Seamlessly weaves Nłe?kepmxcin words into the story. Highly recommended for ages 4-8.
November 2, 2021
Focuses on the importance of land and features Indigenous languages, including translation and pronunciation.
November 10, 2021
Beautiful tale about connection to the earth from Native American Indian perspective, Pacific Northwest.
August 12, 2022
插画师似乎在书中使用了两种不同的艺术风格，一种是非常柔和的、注重氛围的写实风格，另一种则是突出轮廓的、更抽象一些的风格。文本对我来说不太是孩子的语言，有一点点说教的感觉。或许是更针对原住民社群读者的一本书？
October 29, 2022
On a day spent in nature indigenous children visit and appreciate their ancestors and the world around them. Elementary and up
November 2, 2022
Beautiful poetic little indigenous framed children's book. A useful resource for introducing Environmental Sustainability, Social justice, Dance, Art, Drama, and Language to young ones!
December 25, 2022
Love the artwork in this one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews