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The Song That Called Them Home
From the award-winning author of On the Trapline comes a cinematic fantasy-adventure story inspired by Indigenous legends.
One summer day, Lauren and her little brother, James, go on a trip to the land with their Moshom (grandfather). After they've arrived, the children decide to fish for dinner while Moshom naps. They are in their canoe in the middle of the lake when the water around them begins to swirl and crash. They are thrown overboard and when Lauren surfaces she sees her brother being pulled away by the Memekwesewak -- creatures who live in and around water and like to interfere with humans. Lauren must follow the Memekwesewak through a portal and along a watery path to find and bring back James. But when she finally comes upon her brother, she too feels the lure of the Memekwesewak's song. Something even stronger must pull them back home.
One summer day, Lauren and her little brother, James, go on a trip to the land with their Moshom (grandfather). After they've arrived, the children decide to fish for dinner while Moshom naps. They are in their canoe in the middle of the lake when the water around them begins to swirl and crash. They are thrown overboard and when Lauren surfaces she sees her brother being pulled away by the Memekwesewak -- creatures who live in and around water and like to interfere with humans. Lauren must follow the Memekwesewak through a portal and along a watery path to find and bring back James. But when she finally comes upon her brother, she too feels the lure of the Memekwesewak's song. Something even stronger must pull them back home.
52 pages, Hardcover
First published April 4, 2023
177 people want to read
About the author
David Alexander Robertson
60 books763 followersDAVID A. ROBERTSON is a two-time winner of the Governor General's Literary Award, has won the TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award, as well as the Writer's Union of Canada Freedom to Read award. He has received several other accolades for his work as a writer for children and adults, podcaster, public speaker, and social advocate. He was honoured with a Doctor of Letters by the University of Manitoba for outstanding contributions in the arts and distinguished achievements in 2023. He is a member of Norway House Cree Nation and lives in Winnipeg.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
April 13, 2023
This is a picture book based on the folklore of 'Memekwesewak', the dwarf creatures found around Turtle island. Author gave a way to the story for the mystery lies in the ancient built-up myth of the indegenious people of the Seneca tribe and likewise.
Here James and Lauren, two siblings who were riding canoe went downwards with the effect of whirlpool and found that Memekwesewak were taking them with them at some place where they danced on the waves of water and to forests and skies & return to their side of shore, back to their 'Moshom' (GrandPa in native language).
It is a nice story with a touch of some other part of world's folklore and quite musically adventurous. Illustrations were so soothing and colourful, with facials matched with the depicted kind of native tribes' people.
My NetGalley reviews: https://www.netgalley.com/book/262965...
Here James and Lauren, two siblings who were riding canoe went downwards with the effect of whirlpool and found that Memekwesewak were taking them with them at some place where they danced on the waves of water and to forests and skies & return to their side of shore, back to their 'Moshom' (GrandPa in native language).
It is a nice story with a touch of some other part of world's folklore and quite musically adventurous. Illustrations were so soothing and colourful, with facials matched with the depicted kind of native tribes' people.
My NetGalley reviews: https://www.netgalley.com/book/262965...
July 20, 2022
WOW.
I mean wow!
You know that feeling that you are actually inna Disney animation movie while reading a really good illustrated book?
Well, get ready for this feeling when you pick up this book.
Everything is so dreamy perfect. The story is mesmerizing. It's fantastical. It's magical. It's almost tragic but ends on a perfect note.
It's the story of two siblings who goes out fishing but ends on a memorable adventurous trip.
I say wow. This is one of the most perfect reads I have ever come across.
Thank you, Penguin Random House Canada, for the advance reading copy.
I mean wow!
You know that feeling that you are actually inna Disney animation movie while reading a really good illustrated book?
Well, get ready for this feeling when you pick up this book.
Everything is so dreamy perfect. The story is mesmerizing. It's fantastical. It's magical. It's almost tragic but ends on a perfect note.
It's the story of two siblings who goes out fishing but ends on a memorable adventurous trip.
I say wow. This is one of the most perfect reads I have ever come across.
Thank you, Penguin Random House Canada, for the advance reading copy.
December 20, 2022
Lauren & James’ Moshom (grandfather) has taken them out to the lake on a warm, sunny, summer day. The children are excited to be near the beauty of the water but, soon after arriving Moshom falls asleep for the journey was long & tiring. In the hopes of catching some fish so that they all might eat, Lauren takes the canoe & encourages James to help her catch their supper. To their great misfortune, they encounter Memekwesewak (little people) who lead James past green, blue, & yellow; through a portal hidden by water. They dance around the fire until Lauren finds them & becomes disillusioned from her quest to save her brother.
The illustrations within this book could stand alone in presenting the breathtaking story of Lauren & James & the drum Moshom plays to guide them home. The reason I requested access to this book was, initially, because of the beautiful illustrations & there are not enough words in the English language for me to express how tenderly they led me through this story. Certainly, Lauren & James were brought to life so accurately as to make this tale feel like it was my own; that these were familiar faces to me & that I had grown fond of them within an instant.
As this story presents, the Turtle Island belief held by many Nish folks, the Memekwesewak reside in the water & share this land with us. It is unsurprising that they might have a tender spot for the young, for whom in this life is more innocent & pure to existence than those sweetly neoteric. If you are unfamiliar with this story, with those who take part it in; the note left by the author at the end of this book will shed warm light on what is being shared within the pages.
Reading this story presents an interesting opportunity for discussion, both in terms of how the imagery presents those who star in it as well as for the beliefs that tie into the practice of sharing such stories. I know that my childhood self would have devoured this book as often I would have been allowed to sit in my special spot to read it; taking care to absorb every brush stroke & every word as I gained traction in the literary world. I hope that this book finds its way into the hands of those readers who will cherish it just as much as I have at present.
Thank you to NetGalley, Penguin Random House Canada & David A. Robertson for the free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
The illustrations within this book could stand alone in presenting the breathtaking story of Lauren & James & the drum Moshom plays to guide them home. The reason I requested access to this book was, initially, because of the beautiful illustrations & there are not enough words in the English language for me to express how tenderly they led me through this story. Certainly, Lauren & James were brought to life so accurately as to make this tale feel like it was my own; that these were familiar faces to me & that I had grown fond of them within an instant.
As this story presents, the Turtle Island belief held by many Nish folks, the Memekwesewak reside in the water & share this land with us. It is unsurprising that they might have a tender spot for the young, for whom in this life is more innocent & pure to existence than those sweetly neoteric. If you are unfamiliar with this story, with those who take part it in; the note left by the author at the end of this book will shed warm light on what is being shared within the pages.
Reading this story presents an interesting opportunity for discussion, both in terms of how the imagery presents those who star in it as well as for the beliefs that tie into the practice of sharing such stories. I know that my childhood self would have devoured this book as often I would have been allowed to sit in my special spot to read it; taking care to absorb every brush stroke & every word as I gained traction in the literary world. I hope that this book finds its way into the hands of those readers who will cherish it just as much as I have at present.
Thank you to NetGalley, Penguin Random House Canada & David A. Robertson for the free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
August 26, 2023
Cette légende ferait un film Disney insane ! Un album magique sur la légende autochtone des Memekwesewak, de petits êtres humanoïdes folkloriques, qui aiment renverser les canots pour entraîner leurs occupants dans les profondeurs de l'océan. C'est vraiment bien fait, les illustrations sont magnifiques.
April 2, 2023
4.1.2023
The original ARC, via the Kindle Fire, was unreadable [the pictures were cut up, and out of order, making it close to impossible to read. I am going to try downloading it to my computer and if that fails, I will waiting until it is published [4.4] and see if I can find it through one of my libraries to be able to read and review that way. It is very disappointing.
Well for all that [see above], I didn't enjoy this story much when I finally did get it downloaded to my computer [where, thankfully, it was fully readable]. I am a complete outlier in my general dislike of this book, but it just didn't work for me.
While the story was interesting [any time indigenous stories are told, it is a good day], I 100% didn't love the illustrations [every single person looks so angry through the whole book - even when they are smiling, their eyes are angry and it was very disconcerting] and I would have loved some context about the Memekwesewak before the story started [this comes at the end of the book, but it would have worked better at the beginning as either a note from the author, like at the end, or as actually PART of the story - I think it would have made the flow of the story better, especially of those of us who are not familiar with indigenous stories [but want to learn].
Overall, this just didn't work for me and I cannot really recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley, David A. Robertson, Maya McKibbon - Illustrator, and Penguin Random House Canada/Tundra Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The original ARC, via the Kindle Fire, was unreadable [the pictures were cut up, and out of order, making it close to impossible to read. I am going to try downloading it to my computer and if that fails, I will waiting until it is published [4.4] and see if I can find it through one of my libraries to be able to read and review that way. It is very disappointing.
Well for all that [see above], I didn't enjoy this story much when I finally did get it downloaded to my computer [where, thankfully, it was fully readable]. I am a complete outlier in my general dislike of this book, but it just didn't work for me.
While the story was interesting [any time indigenous stories are told, it is a good day], I 100% didn't love the illustrations [every single person looks so angry through the whole book - even when they are smiling, their eyes are angry and it was very disconcerting] and I would have loved some context about the Memekwesewak before the story started [this comes at the end of the book, but it would have worked better at the beginning as either a note from the author, like at the end, or as actually PART of the story - I think it would have made the flow of the story better, especially of those of us who are not familiar with indigenous stories [but want to learn].
Overall, this just didn't work for me and I cannot really recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley, David A. Robertson, Maya McKibbon - Illustrator, and Penguin Random House Canada/Tundra Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2024
This was beautifully illustrated. The Memekwesewak were interesting to read about. This story reminded me of some of the Scottish Fairytales I grew up on. Don't forget to read the author's note at the end of the book. This also reminded me of the Yeates Poem Come Away Oh Human Child. But this one has a much happier ending than that poem.
August 17, 2023
David A. Robertson could write a grocery list, and I would read it without hesitation. Add in legends and gorgeous graphics, and I am enamoured. Robertson has again created an accessible means for young people to learn about Indigenous stories, while being reminded of the importance of family and traditions.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Penguin Random House Canada and Tundra Books for providing me with a complimentary advance copy, in exchange for my honest opinion. I will be buying copies of this book for many of the youngsters in my life.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Penguin Random House Canada and Tundra Books for providing me with a complimentary advance copy, in exchange for my honest opinion. I will be buying copies of this book for many of the youngsters in my life.
December 11, 2022
A beautiful story and introduction to a legend common to the First peoples of Turtle Island. David A Robertson’s books are always wonderful and this is no exception. The prose is engaging and easy to understand and the illustrations are eye catching and magnificent. A must addition to any library, school, or diverse collection of picture books.
February 5, 2023
Beautiful illustrations and so happy to see more indigenous representation, especially in children's' books! The only criticism.I have is that I wish the author's note about Memekwesewak was included before the beginning of the story so that readers and their children can get a little bit more understanding and context for some of the main actors in the story.
February 27, 2024
Loved the story, loved the presentation of the kids in the illustrations. A really good book for the transition from picture books to adventure novels, not because of its length but because it feels like I read a whole epic journey! Kids ready for a bit of danger in their books will be thrilled!
Not mentioned in the text but a very good lesson in WEARING YOUR LIFE JACKET ON THE WATER!
Not mentioned in the text but a very good lesson in WEARING YOUR LIFE JACKET ON THE WATER!
November 21, 2023
5/5
Wow!! The beautiful illustrations of this story really brought this engaging story alive! There was comfort, adventure, danger, magic, community, and wonder in this story and I loved every moment of it. The educational info at the back about the Memekwesewak was great!
Wow!! The beautiful illustrations of this story really brought this engaging story alive! There was comfort, adventure, danger, magic, community, and wonder in this story and I loved every moment of it. The educational info at the back about the Memekwesewak was great!
July 28, 2022
Personal rating:
4🌟
This is a really short graphic novel. It's suitable for a very light and breezy read, especially for kids since the graphics are so so pretty to look at. The story includes a Native American legend so I got to learn a little new something about the culture of the Natives while also enjoying the beautiful drawings. I don't really have much else to say about it since it's ultimately a short and simple book. I did enjoy my experience reading it, though :>
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a free digital copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
4🌟
This is a really short graphic novel. It's suitable for a very light and breezy read, especially for kids since the graphics are so so pretty to look at. The story includes a Native American legend so I got to learn a little new something about the culture of the Natives while also enjoying the beautiful drawings. I don't really have much else to say about it since it's ultimately a short and simple book. I did enjoy my experience reading it, though :>
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a free digital copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2023
Really interesting picture book that shows the Indigenous Memekwesewak. Reminds me a bit of Where the Wild Things Are.
August 6, 2023
This picture book, based on the folklore of Memekwesewak, is crafted so well. The story transports you to Lauren & James’s story and the illustrations are animated movie level so it feels like you are there. I loved learning about this new-to-me story from indigenous legends.
July 22, 2022
Lauren, her little brother, and their grandfather go fishing. The children decide to fish by themselves in a canoe (while grandfather sleeps), but are tipped out by humanoid "little people" who take young Sam to live with them.
Distressed, Lauren follows, intent to rescue her brother. But she, too, is enthralled by the little people's eerie song.
From very far away, the children hear a beat; a song they recognize, and it calls them home.
This is not a bedtime story. It's more of a haunting variation based on many of Canada's Turtle Island indigenous people's folk tales about creatures called Memekwesewak.
As with many culture's stories about little people, some are cheerful or mischievous, and some are a little scary.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Parental guidance suggested.
For children not raised with tales like this, I do not recommend this book under age 10-12, or older (the publisher says 4-8 years, preschool to grade 3). The subject should be openly discussed with the child, and they should be reassured that wearing a *life jacket* will protect them, and they will not be taken away by mythical creatures. Adults often assume this is understood, but subconsciously, fears can remain hidden to surface later. (Parental guidance suggested.)
3/5
See my notes about grade level and clarification needed.
Thanks to Penguin Random House Canada, Tundra Books, and NetGalley for the pre-edited proof of this ebook; the review is voluntary.
#PenguinRandomHouseCanada
#TundraBooks
#DavidARobertson #DavidARobertsonAuth
#MayaMcKibbin #MayaMcKibbinIllus
#TurtleIslandCanadIndiginousFolkTales
#ChildrensFictionMemekwesewakLittlePeople
#ChildrensFictionKidnappedbyLittlePeople
#ChildrensFictionCanadaIndiginousFolkTales
Distressed, Lauren follows, intent to rescue her brother. But she, too, is enthralled by the little people's eerie song.
From very far away, the children hear a beat; a song they recognize, and it calls them home.
This is not a bedtime story. It's more of a haunting variation based on many of Canada's Turtle Island indigenous people's folk tales about creatures called Memekwesewak.
As with many culture's stories about little people, some are cheerful or mischievous, and some are a little scary.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Parental guidance suggested.
For children not raised with tales like this, I do not recommend this book under age 10-12, or older (the publisher says 4-8 years, preschool to grade 3). The subject should be openly discussed with the child, and they should be reassured that wearing a *life jacket* will protect them, and they will not be taken away by mythical creatures. Adults often assume this is understood, but subconsciously, fears can remain hidden to surface later. (Parental guidance suggested.)
3/5
See my notes about grade level and clarification needed.
Thanks to Penguin Random House Canada, Tundra Books, and NetGalley for the pre-edited proof of this ebook; the review is voluntary.
#PenguinRandomHouseCanada
#TundraBooks
#DavidARobertson #DavidARobertsonAuth
#MayaMcKibbin #MayaMcKibbinIllus
#TurtleIslandCanadIndiginousFolkTales
#ChildrensFictionMemekwesewakLittlePeople
#ChildrensFictionKidnappedbyLittlePeople
#ChildrensFictionCanadaIndiginousFolkTales
January 9, 2023
Two children go on a trip to the land with their moshom (grandfather). Getting there tires him out. While Moshom naps, the hungry children, Lauren and James, take the canoe out onto the lake to go fishing.
Lauren has never paddled a canoe before. It capsizes and as she comes to the surface, she sees Memekwesewak taking James away. She follows after them and ends up in a portal to another place. Going through it in search of James, she arrives at an island where he is dancing around a huge fire with Memekwesewak. As she tries to pull him away, she too is caught up in the dance. They lose all sense of time. They forget why they are there.
A sound, thum thump, thum thump, brings them out of their trance. It is Moshom, beating his drum, calling them home. And so they dance again, this time following the same route in reverse.
Maya McKibbin's illustrations give this a Disney feel. I can imagine this tale, using her artwork, told in a short animated video.
In the author's note in the back matter, Robertson talks about the Memekwesewak: these little people are a humanoid race of people here on earth. We are the other. According to him, "Memekwesewak live between rocks, in the rapids, amid the trees of the land that provides us with life. They are mischievous. It is said that one of their favorite things to do is to crawl out of the rocks and capsize canoes. Children are far more likely to see them. Memekwesewak have a soft spot for children, and will help them out when they are in trouble or sad."
These Memekwesewak are interesting creatures. I wish my Menominee grandmother was still here so I could ask her about them. I remember her talking about the little people. I thought she was referring to the fairies and elves I grew up believing lived in the world around us. I like this idea better.
Lauren has never paddled a canoe before. It capsizes and as she comes to the surface, she sees Memekwesewak taking James away. She follows after them and ends up in a portal to another place. Going through it in search of James, she arrives at an island where he is dancing around a huge fire with Memekwesewak. As she tries to pull him away, she too is caught up in the dance. They lose all sense of time. They forget why they are there.
A sound, thum thump, thum thump, brings them out of their trance. It is Moshom, beating his drum, calling them home. And so they dance again, this time following the same route in reverse.
Maya McKibbin's illustrations give this a Disney feel. I can imagine this tale, using her artwork, told in a short animated video.
In the author's note in the back matter, Robertson talks about the Memekwesewak: these little people are a humanoid race of people here on earth. We are the other. According to him, "Memekwesewak live between rocks, in the rapids, amid the trees of the land that provides us with life. They are mischievous. It is said that one of their favorite things to do is to crawl out of the rocks and capsize canoes. Children are far more likely to see them. Memekwesewak have a soft spot for children, and will help them out when they are in trouble or sad."
These Memekwesewak are interesting creatures. I wish my Menominee grandmother was still here so I could ask her about them. I remember her talking about the little people. I thought she was referring to the fairies and elves I grew up believing lived in the world around us. I like this idea better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2023
I'm super excited to talk about "The Song That Called Them Home" by David Alexander Robertson. So, here's the lowdown:
This awesome story is about James and Lauren going on a fishing trip with their moshom (that's their cool grandpa!). While moshom is taking a nap, James and Lauren decide to do a bit of fishing themselves. But hold onto your fishin' hats because things get crazy! They get pulled underwater and meet the Memekwesewak – kinda like mermaids, but not exactly.
Now, James gets whisked away by the Memekwesewak, and Lauren is left all alone. Talk about an underwater adventure! What happens next? You'll have to dive into the book to find out!
What's cool about this book is that it's not just words. They threw in two songs, and that's like having a concert in a book! Plus, it's a real page-turner. You can zoom through it fast, and it's great for beginner readers. The words aren't too tricky, so it's like a vocab party for young readers.
Here's the big lesson: If you want something done, do it yourself! Waiting around for others to do stuff might not always work. In the book, Lauren doesn't just sit there. She takes charge and goes after James. It's a bit like life – if you want something super important done, sometimes you gotta be the superhero and do it yourself. Waiting around? Nah, not the best plan.
So, if you're into fishing trips, underwater adventures, and learning about taking charge, "The Song That Called Them Home" is the book for you. It's a splash of fun and a sprinkle of bravery – go check it out!
Check out my full review of this book on my YouTube channel. It's got everything you need to know about this amazing read.
https://youtu.be/b0Ah-ftUyyg?si=D_pRC...
This awesome story is about James and Lauren going on a fishing trip with their moshom (that's their cool grandpa!). While moshom is taking a nap, James and Lauren decide to do a bit of fishing themselves. But hold onto your fishin' hats because things get crazy! They get pulled underwater and meet the Memekwesewak – kinda like mermaids, but not exactly.
Now, James gets whisked away by the Memekwesewak, and Lauren is left all alone. Talk about an underwater adventure! What happens next? You'll have to dive into the book to find out!
What's cool about this book is that it's not just words. They threw in two songs, and that's like having a concert in a book! Plus, it's a real page-turner. You can zoom through it fast, and it's great for beginner readers. The words aren't too tricky, so it's like a vocab party for young readers.
Here's the big lesson: If you want something done, do it yourself! Waiting around for others to do stuff might not always work. In the book, Lauren doesn't just sit there. She takes charge and goes after James. It's a bit like life – if you want something super important done, sometimes you gotta be the superhero and do it yourself. Waiting around? Nah, not the best plan.
So, if you're into fishing trips, underwater adventures, and learning about taking charge, "The Song That Called Them Home" is the book for you. It's a splash of fun and a sprinkle of bravery – go check it out!
Check out my full review of this book on my YouTube channel. It's got everything you need to know about this amazing read.
https://youtu.be/b0Ah-ftUyyg?si=D_pRC...
July 21, 2022
This conveys a tale very familiar to many people who know stories of the little folk, but this is presented in such a specific way that leaves you in no doubt it's about just one ethnicity. Two kids steal away from their sleeping grandfather in a canoe, only for the lake-dwellers to tip them out and snatch one. The second has to follow, through the portal from this world to the other – but when they get there, can they even remember the rescue mission at hand?
Visually, this is sheer quality – lovely double-paged full-size images convey the drama and the emotion of every scene, or act as montages as the characters pick their way to the other side. The text is nice and brief, but in giving an indigenous word for grandfather right at the start, and in having such an unfortunately long name for the little folk, does peg this strictly as I say to the relevant community. So at the same time you have a story that could have been set in Ireland or any number of other places, featuring any child-familiar legend of people snatched away by happy, dancing fairy types, but this is definitely not any of those. It is from Turtle Bay, Canada, and that's where it'll always come from.
And I'm split about that – I'm happy there are these legends still there, and still being told and brought to the wider audience, but I don't know if this way of presenting it, even with such a small usage of the local argot, is the best. If it was a unique, endemic story I think it would have been fine, but as it's a tale told the world over this felt like it shut me out a little, leaving this for the specific communities and them alone. I hope I'm wrong, but...
Three and a half stars.
Visually, this is sheer quality – lovely double-paged full-size images convey the drama and the emotion of every scene, or act as montages as the characters pick their way to the other side. The text is nice and brief, but in giving an indigenous word for grandfather right at the start, and in having such an unfortunately long name for the little folk, does peg this strictly as I say to the relevant community. So at the same time you have a story that could have been set in Ireland or any number of other places, featuring any child-familiar legend of people snatched away by happy, dancing fairy types, but this is definitely not any of those. It is from Turtle Bay, Canada, and that's where it'll always come from.
And I'm split about that – I'm happy there are these legends still there, and still being told and brought to the wider audience, but I don't know if this way of presenting it, even with such a small usage of the local argot, is the best. If it was a unique, endemic story I think it would have been fine, but as it's a tale told the world over this felt like it shut me out a little, leaving this for the specific communities and them alone. I hope I'm wrong, but...
Three and a half stars.
February 9, 2023
David A Robertson has done it again with another beautifully written book that embraces Canada’s indigenous folk tales about creatures called Memekwesewak. This is a legend common to the Peoples of Turtle Island. This book flows in a manner that is easy and fun to follow. The story is magical, the story is engaging, the story is at times haunting and it shares a voice that is so important in children’s literature. The book does give the reader information about the Memekwesewak, but it happens at the end of the book. This would have been a great author's note at the beginning to give a little background knowledge to those readers who do not have the knowledge of the different creatures and characters included in the story. But reviewing and learning at the end was also helpful to gain context.
Lauren, her brother and their Moshom (grandfather) go fishing one day. When grandpa fell asleep the children decided to fish in a canoe by themselves. While they are finished the canoe tips and Lauren’s brother is pulled away by the Memekwesewak — creatures who live in and around water and like to interfere with humans. She follows because she knows she needs to rescue her brother. She then becomes enthralled by the Memekwesewak’s song. In the distance they hear a steady beat. A familiar song they know that helps call them home.
Beyond the story the graphics were absolutely stunning. They added to the magic created in this tale. I cannot wait to add this book to my classroom collection. It is totally worth it.
Lauren, her brother and their Moshom (grandfather) go fishing one day. When grandpa fell asleep the children decided to fish in a canoe by themselves. While they are finished the canoe tips and Lauren’s brother is pulled away by the Memekwesewak — creatures who live in and around water and like to interfere with humans. She follows because she knows she needs to rescue her brother. She then becomes enthralled by the Memekwesewak’s song. In the distance they hear a steady beat. A familiar song they know that helps call them home.
Beyond the story the graphics were absolutely stunning. They added to the magic created in this tale. I cannot wait to add this book to my classroom collection. It is totally worth it.
October 30, 2022
This is another excellent book from David A. Robertson, based on stories that he heard from his grandfather, and from his people. This picture book is so stunning.
The story tells how two children go fishing with their grandfather (Moshom) on the land (mean tribal land), but he falls asleep and the kids want to go out on the lake. That is where the Memekwesewak take Lauren’s brother, and she must go after him. The Memekwesewak are like the Little People that are more familiar with Western audiences. They are mischievous, and are the spirits of nature, and just want to have fun.
And one of the things they like to do is take children. And like the fairies of the Western culture, they can trap you in their realm.
But their grandfather awakens, and realizes what has happened, and sings out to them, banging his drum, calling them home (as the book title says).
In the author notes, the author talks about when his father was a boy and he saw some Memekwesewak.
Wonderful way to tell about these legendary beings. And the illustrations are stunning. And I like how the children are called home by the beat of the drum, that they dance back to shore with, like a heartbeat.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
The story tells how two children go fishing with their grandfather (Moshom) on the land (mean tribal land), but he falls asleep and the kids want to go out on the lake. That is where the Memekwesewak take Lauren’s brother, and she must go after him. The Memekwesewak are like the Little People that are more familiar with Western audiences. They are mischievous, and are the spirits of nature, and just want to have fun.
And one of the things they like to do is take children. And like the fairies of the Western culture, they can trap you in their realm.
But their grandfather awakens, and realizes what has happened, and sings out to them, banging his drum, calling them home (as the book title says).
In the author notes, the author talks about when his father was a boy and he saw some Memekwesewak.
Wonderful way to tell about these legendary beings. And the illustrations are stunning. And I like how the children are called home by the beat of the drum, that they dance back to shore with, like a heartbeat.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
December 3, 2022
4.5 stars.
The Song That Called Them Home is yet another wonderful picture book from David A. Robertson. The story is filled with familial love, especially the love of a sister for a brother and a grandparent for their grandchildren. The fantasy story woven around Indigenous legends (the author is Cree but mentions in his note at the end that similar legends exist in other Indigenous nations) is an engaging ones that brings traditional stories to life in a way that's relatable for modern kids. I do wish it had been longer, but I suspect that that would have been too long for a picture book and I'm only saying this as an adult reader. The art is gorgeous--I've read something else illustrated by McKibbin before and I remember enjoying their work there too, but the landscapes here especially stood out for me.
Overall a great book that I would definitely recommend for children of all ages (provided they aren't too spooked by stories about being lured away from their families by mythical beings). I'm always looking out for new works by Robertson, and now I'm excited for future works from McKibbin too.
The Song That Called Them Home is yet another wonderful picture book from David A. Robertson. The story is filled with familial love, especially the love of a sister for a brother and a grandparent for their grandchildren. The fantasy story woven around Indigenous legends (the author is Cree but mentions in his note at the end that similar legends exist in other Indigenous nations) is an engaging ones that brings traditional stories to life in a way that's relatable for modern kids. I do wish it had been longer, but I suspect that that would have been too long for a picture book and I'm only saying this as an adult reader. The art is gorgeous--I've read something else illustrated by McKibbin before and I remember enjoying their work there too, but the landscapes here especially stood out for me.
Overall a great book that I would definitely recommend for children of all ages (provided they aren't too spooked by stories about being lured away from their families by mythical beings). I'm always looking out for new works by Robertson, and now I'm excited for future works from McKibbin too.
June 7, 2023
This is an indigenous story about two kids crossing paths with the Memekwesewak, mischievous creatures that live in and around water and like to interfere with humans.
One day Lauren and her little brother went fishing with their grandfather. When the grandfather falls asleep, they decide to take the canoe out themselves. But then the Memekwesewak tip over the canoe and lure the kids into their world to dance with them. They lose track of time and are ultimately stuck. Only a song can call them back home. Will the grandfather be able to break the charm of the Memekwesewak and reunite with his grandchildren?
This picture book has beautiful illustrations that depict the spiritual world wonderfully. The Memekwesewak seem quite scary, though. But as with every wild thing, we shouldn’t fear it but respect it. Fear will immobilize us, but respect will keep us and them safe. Every wild creature contributes in its own way to nature. Without them, it will become unbalanced. That’s why I love indigenous teachings about spirits. They are so powerful, but we are, too, if we listen and honour them.
One day Lauren and her little brother went fishing with their grandfather. When the grandfather falls asleep, they decide to take the canoe out themselves. But then the Memekwesewak tip over the canoe and lure the kids into their world to dance with them. They lose track of time and are ultimately stuck. Only a song can call them back home. Will the grandfather be able to break the charm of the Memekwesewak and reunite with his grandchildren?
This picture book has beautiful illustrations that depict the spiritual world wonderfully. The Memekwesewak seem quite scary, though. But as with every wild thing, we shouldn’t fear it but respect it. Fear will immobilize us, but respect will keep us and them safe. Every wild creature contributes in its own way to nature. Without them, it will become unbalanced. That’s why I love indigenous teachings about spirits. They are so powerful, but we are, too, if we listen and honour them.
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November 21, 2023This Adventure book, “The Song That Called Them Home,” is about two children who get sucked into an adventurous island where the music and dancing do not stop. That is until they realized they were nowhere near home and needed a sign of how to come back home. It was Grandpa’s music that was needed to come back home. The theme of the story is how a song can drive you away but also bring you back.
Some of the writing techniques the author used throughout this book included repetition. Repetition was used to highlight important moments of the story like when they fell in the water. Another technique that was used was imagery. Imagery was used when the author described what was happening mostly in the pictures but also with his words. This book is considered anti-bias as it doesn’t dress the characters a certain way to show their gender. I felt confused at first because I thought Lauran was a boy or the other way around but I see the purpose of the illustration. Regardless of the characters being indigenous, it didn’t assume a certain way to their lifestyle or where they lived. This is an interesting adventure book, very suspenseful as well.
Some of the writing techniques the author used throughout this book included repetition. Repetition was used to highlight important moments of the story like when they fell in the water. Another technique that was used was imagery. Imagery was used when the author described what was happening mostly in the pictures but also with his words. This book is considered anti-bias as it doesn’t dress the characters a certain way to show their gender. I felt confused at first because I thought Lauran was a boy or the other way around but I see the purpose of the illustration. Regardless of the characters being indigenous, it didn’t assume a certain way to their lifestyle or where they lived. This is an interesting adventure book, very suspenseful as well.
August 4, 2022
Lauren and James leave Moshom (grandfather) on the shore when he falls asleep on a fishing trip. Alone and untrained, they are attacked by the Memekewsewak, humanoid water-dwelling creatures, which grab James and drag him to their world. Lauren follows to rescue James, but they can't come home...not without help.
The artwork is just GORGEOUS. No plain whitespace anywhere, each page has full backgrounds and a lot of texture. Even plain sky is filled with stars and gradients of light, and the water reflects what's above and scarily hints at what's below. The Memekwesewak are ethereal, glowing, and definitely uncanny. The detail of the artwork on their skin is reminiscent of vines, or perhaps even veins, and gives them a sort of hollowness. Brr!
This is perhaps not a bedtime story, since it's a little scary. But it's so well-done that it is well worth sitting down on a sunny day, when the Memekewsewak are far away, to enjoy a little fright with your kid. "Horror" picture books are so rare, but I love them so much!
Advanced reader copy provided by the publisher.
The artwork is just GORGEOUS. No plain whitespace anywhere, each page has full backgrounds and a lot of texture. Even plain sky is filled with stars and gradients of light, and the water reflects what's above and scarily hints at what's below. The Memekwesewak are ethereal, glowing, and definitely uncanny. The detail of the artwork on their skin is reminiscent of vines, or perhaps even veins, and gives them a sort of hollowness. Brr!
This is perhaps not a bedtime story, since it's a little scary. But it's so well-done that it is well worth sitting down on a sunny day, when the Memekewsewak are far away, to enjoy a little fright with your kid. "Horror" picture books are so rare, but I love them so much!
Advanced reader copy provided by the publisher.
June 2, 2023
*Received through Librarything giveaway*
Used for a family read aloud. It just didn’t work for our family. While the illustrations are beautiful, they can come across as creepy or at odds with what is happening at the moment. The story itself felt like I was reading a summary rather than the actual story. This was due to the lack of dialogue, poor story set up as well as missing information. There wasn’t any explanation of what the Memekwesewak were in the story, with only a short mention in the author’s note at the end. Overall, it just left the story missing an emotional impact. It also didn’t help that the name for the Memekwesewak was difficult to say, especially given that the pronunciation guide isn't in the story at all but rather the author’s note at the end. I think it is important for stories that use vernacular that isn’t as common to give an explanation on the page it is presented. For example, “moshom” was mentioned but also wasn’t explained in the story either. The only place it was explained was in the book summary.
Used for a family read aloud. It just didn’t work for our family. While the illustrations are beautiful, they can come across as creepy or at odds with what is happening at the moment. The story itself felt like I was reading a summary rather than the actual story. This was due to the lack of dialogue, poor story set up as well as missing information. There wasn’t any explanation of what the Memekwesewak were in the story, with only a short mention in the author’s note at the end. Overall, it just left the story missing an emotional impact. It also didn’t help that the name for the Memekwesewak was difficult to say, especially given that the pronunciation guide isn't in the story at all but rather the author’s note at the end. I think it is important for stories that use vernacular that isn’t as common to give an explanation on the page it is presented. For example, “moshom” was mentioned but also wasn’t explained in the story either. The only place it was explained was in the book summary.
July 18, 2022
Absolutely adored this story. It reminded me so much of the stories my family shared around the campfire growing up.
Lauren and her younger brother James go on a trip with their Moshom (grandfather) and while he takes a nap, the two children take the canoe out to go fishing. While they are out on the lake, their canoe capsizes and Lauren finds herself chasing her brother James who is being pulled away by the Memekwesewak (beings who live in the water). Lauren goes to rescue her brother and together they are rescued by the call of home.
This is an amazing story about the power and strength of family, as well as indigenous mythology/legends. The pages are colourful and vibrant, and I loved the Author's note at the end about the history of the Memekwesewak legend.
I would highly recommend this book to elementary school readers as well as school libraries.
Thank you to #NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Lauren and her younger brother James go on a trip with their Moshom (grandfather) and while he takes a nap, the two children take the canoe out to go fishing. While they are out on the lake, their canoe capsizes and Lauren finds herself chasing her brother James who is being pulled away by the Memekwesewak (beings who live in the water). Lauren goes to rescue her brother and together they are rescued by the call of home.
This is an amazing story about the power and strength of family, as well as indigenous mythology/legends. The pages are colourful and vibrant, and I loved the Author's note at the end about the history of the Memekwesewak legend.
I would highly recommend this book to elementary school readers as well as school libraries.
Thank you to #NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
June 26, 2023
Although I really enjoy the art style of this book, the story itself lacks context and therefore it's a bit disjointed. I appreciate the author's note at the end, but it would have been helpful for the Memekwesewak to be mentioned earlier in the story. (Perhaps by the children's grandfather before he fell asleep?) I love that more indigenous stories are being published for wider audiences, but I think for it to appeal to children who weren't raised on them, they need to be able to connect to the story straightaway. That's a bit difficult to do when there are unfamiliar words and concepts - even in folklore and fantasy. Again, the art was lovely, but I'm not sure if that alone will appeal to young children who pick up this book.
I received this book in an EarlyReviewers giveaway on LibraryThing - my thanks to the publisher.
I received this book in an EarlyReviewers giveaway on LibraryThing - my thanks to the publisher.
March 14, 2023
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review and cannot wait to see a hard copy so I can fully appreciate the beautiful illustrations! I love the way movement is implied through the way the illustrations are drawn (especially the ripples in the water!). I had never heard of the Memekwesewak and it was fun being introduced to them! Also, I think kids would love this story and see a lot of read about potential.
I almost always love stories with grandparents so these kids and their Moshem are a delight! I also love the sibling dynamic and the representation and telling of an Indigenous legend.
Definitely a great book for an elementary school classroom or a kid's library!
I almost always love stories with grandparents so these kids and their Moshem are a delight! I also love the sibling dynamic and the representation and telling of an Indigenous legend.
Definitely a great book for an elementary school classroom or a kid's library!
March 15, 2023
I received an electronic ARC from Penguin Random House Canada through NetGalley.
Robertson offers a look at an older legend of the Memekwesewak. Readers see two siblings and their grandfather head to the lake to fish. While the grandfather dozes, Lauren and James set out on the lake to fish. When the water gets rough, their canoe overturns and James is drawn underwater. Lauren finds her bravery and follows to rescue him. Both are then entranced by the Memekwesewak and lose all track of time or other locations until they hear a different drumbeat. This beat sounds familiar and calls them home. Beautiful message of love bringing wanderers home. The illustrations capture the settings and invite readers to be part of this story.
Robertson offers a look at an older legend of the Memekwesewak. Readers see two siblings and their grandfather head to the lake to fish. While the grandfather dozes, Lauren and James set out on the lake to fish. When the water gets rough, their canoe overturns and James is drawn underwater. Lauren finds her bravery and follows to rescue him. Both are then entranced by the Memekwesewak and lose all track of time or other locations until they hear a different drumbeat. This beat sounds familiar and calls them home. Beautiful message of love bringing wanderers home. The illustrations capture the settings and invite readers to be part of this story.
May 21, 2023
This picture book tells a story inspired by indigenous legends. The ending is sweet and reassuring, but the story involves frightening concepts related to water spirits stealing kids away. The illustrations aren't exceptionally creepy, but they will be too much for some sensitive children, and kids who are already frightened of the water don't need to start worrying about evil spirits who will pull them under and carry them away.
This book is mainly appropriate for school-age kids who are interested in legends. The publisher is recommending this for preschool to third grade, but this will be too scary for some children in that age range. At the very least, parents or educators should reassure children that this is fantasy fiction, and that nothing similar will happen to them.
This book is mainly appropriate for school-age kids who are interested in legends. The publisher is recommending this for preschool to third grade, but this will be too scary for some children in that age range. At the very least, parents or educators should reassure children that this is fantasy fiction, and that nothing similar will happen to them.
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