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Walking Together

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This innovative picture book introduces readers to the concept of Etuaptmumk—or Two-Eyed Seeing, the gift of multiple perspectives in the Mi’kmaw language—as we follow a group of young children connecting to nature as their teacher.

A poetic, joyful celebration of the Lands and Waters as spring unfolds: we watch for Robin's return, listen for Frog's croaking, and wonder at maple tree's gift of sap. Grounded in Etuaptmumk, also known as Two-Eyed Seeing—which braids together the strengths of Indigenous and non-Indigenous ways of knowing—and the Mi’kmaq concept of Netukulimk—meaning to protect Mother Earth for the ancestors, present, and future generations—Walking Together nurtures respectful, reciprocal, responsible relationships with the Land and Water, plant-life, animals and other-than-human beings for the benefit of all.

40 pages, Hardcover

Published April 4, 2023

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Albert Marshall

13 books3 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Profile Image for Christina Barber.
154 reviews2 followers
October 14, 2022
Annick Press has another winner in “Walking Together.” Written by Mi’kmaw Elder Albert Marshall and Louise Zimanyi, this wandering journey, which introduces the concept of Etuaptmumk or Two-eyed seeing, is a great way to engage with children and to help them observe and appreciate the natural world around them while learning about Indigenous ways of knowing. Anishanaabe artist, Emily Kewageshig’s illustrations, sometimes reminiscent of Norval Morisseau’s bold style, are vibrant and complex, encouraging children to spot the plants and animals hidden in her landscapes. The story and illustrations pair well together and work particularly well as a read aloud, with readers discovering what it means to see the world around them and how they are connected to it. I love the addition of Mi’kmaw and Anishanaabe words to the text, which also makes this a great book to include in school classrooms and libraries. 


Teacher Tips

* Discovery - What animals and plants do you see? Do we have the same animals and plants in our neighbourhood?

* Go for a walk after reading the story and see what you ‘see’, like in the book. 

* What is our role in our neighbourhood? How are we connected? What is our responsibility to each other? to the land? to our plant and animal neighbours? 

* Where are the authors and illustrators from? Look them up on a map of Canada.
Profile Image for Chantel.
506 reviews363 followers
September 30, 2022
At the core of culture amongst Indigenous communities there is the land; the water, the lilies, the trees, the skies, a territory of vast life with passages through the ages, narrating the transitory cycle of existence. Without knowing where we walk, float, & soar we are lost to rubble that hides us from ourselves & the ancestors who have cascaded the skies so that we might experience the beauty of the earth. This is the message we are reminded of within this story; remember whence you came, remember to be kind, remember to be gentle, & you will remember who you are.

For me, this story presents itself as a warm & tender return to home & family. That being said, I think that it is one that everyone can appreciate—whether you are culturally tied to the authors, the illustrator, or the Mi’kmaq whose belief soothes this story. The illustrations by Emily Kewageshig walk the reader through a land that is beyond the most nostalgic dreams one beholds in their innermost self; a land we share, a land that is home. I was filled with the desire to have the illustrations showcased on my walls, so powerfully did they speak to me.

Alongside images of a world that is imagined with strokes that bequest the heart of every worthy warrior of love, the prose manifests itself as a gentle voice from an invisible force, guiding the reader in a familiar & forgiving way. I say forgiving for there have certainly been times for us all when we have not made our ancestors proud or, perhaps, we have not treated the land & those around us with the kindness they deserve. The prose—this guiding voice—reminds us of our participation in life & of how important it is to see through the dual experience even if that means working through the behaviours we have been undertaking, towards those we seek to present.

At its core, this is a beautiful & breathtaking narrative that sets forth a practice that we should all readily adopt; one that asks us to be the person the guiding voice knows us to be. In all, this is a book I am thankful to have had the opportunity to read & one that transcends the ages of every set of eyes that read it, every pair of ears who hear it, & every fingertip that feels it.

Miigwech to the late Spiritual Leader & Healer, Chief Charles Labrador who gestured for us to be as strong as the interwoven tree roots; rapprochement in skin, bodies, hearts, & minds.

Thank you to NetGalley, Annick Press Ltd., Elder Dr. Albert D. Marshall & Louise Zimanyi for the free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Profile Image for J.
4,010 reviews34 followers
February 16, 2023
I was first and foremost attracted to this book by its cover artwork of the turtle along with the dragonflies. And then the title was also quite promising without me looking at the description of the book, which I rarely every do.

Instead the book Walking Together is an explanation of Etuaptmumk or from what would be a much clearer definition to those who don't know this concept in the Mi’kmaq culture is "seeing with two different eyes". For the whole text of the book this isn't really explained to the reader unless they choose to read the Afterword first.

What I really love about this book is its narrative form as it feels like the reader is actually being taught by a native elder in the way of the world around them. The principles are provided in short and concise statements that also provide the meaning of that comment to the reader who may not know it.

But what was really impressive, though, about this book was the fact that the illustrations are really quite gorgeous artwork. Brightly colored, stylistic, slightly realistic towards the animals and just full of life it makes me want to wrap myself up in them. I would pay just for artwork alone to be able to look at each daily.

In the end my only complaint is the fact that there is no pronunciation guide for the native words found in the Afterworld but it won't take away from the actual sharing of beliefs.

I would most definitely recommend this book to children and to adults who may want to introduce their own little ones to the pleasure of being outdoors whether for the first time or the five hundredth time.

**I received a free copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
Profile Image for Jessica Kluthe.
Author 5 books75 followers
May 15, 2023
Written by Elder Albert D. Marshall, a Mi’kmaq Spiritual Leader, together with Louise Zimanyi — this impactful book makes for an essential read for those living and learning on Treaty territories across Canada and beyond.

As spring comes to life—depicted as a beautiful, interconnected movement between the land and all of life—the story moves from snowy grounds to full green treetops and we learn about the power of walking together through the seasons, through life and with nature as a guide.

The illustrations by Emily Kewageshig, an Anishnaabe artist and visual storyteller, are flowing, bold, and layered — and offer a bright, clear depiction of the heart of this story and truly welcome the youngest of readers to grasp the importance of developing a meaningful relationship with the natural world.

In Walking Together, both through the text and illustrations, readers are introduced to the idea of Etuaptmumk. Etuaptmumk, Two-Eyed Seeing, is the gift of multiple perspectives in the Mi’kmaw language. In addition, this book is also rooted in the Mi’kmaq notion of Netukulimk. Netukulimk means to protect Mother Earth for the ancestors, for the present, and for generations to come.

The book repeats the phrase “When we walk together in a good way…” and then offers a key lesson about a responsible relationship with Earth from “learning the languages of the land” to “breath[ing] in the stillness” as we welcome Frog as a teacher.

This book inspires wonder—looking up at birds in a nest—and understanding that we are connected and should “leave things as they are.” This book inspires readers to slow down, to consider, to be gentle and kind: “tak[ing] only if there is enough.”

Thank you to the publisher for gifting this book to my family.
Profile Image for Sally.
2,316 reviews12 followers
September 2, 2024
A so very beautiful book, with beautiful illustrations.

One of the authors is Elder Alberty D. Marshall, Mi'kmaq Spiritural Leader and Louise Zimanyi, mother, professor, and researcher who "explores how Earth-centered pedagogy and practice in the early years can plant the seeds of sustainablility for current and future generations throught respectiful relationshipss and reciproicity."

This book is about relationships, with each other and the earth.
Respect for relationships is missing in USA 2024.

It's about taking care of our nature.

Opening and closing phrase:
"When we walk together in a good way,
we learn to see the world
throught two eyes."
In the Afterword - "this means protecting Mother Earth for the ancestors anf for present and future generations... ... Nature has rights and we have responsibilities."

...we receive gifts of Mother Earth, of our family, of the Lands and Waters,Waters and Land, of Frog;
things are reviealed;
we learn we are all connected;
we learn languages of the land;
we give back gifts;
frog is one of our teachers;

"We are never alone.
We need each other.
Mawikwayk. Together, we are storng."

"We take only if there is enough.
We ask before we take
and we listen for the answer.
We share.
We sing the Mother Earth song.
We say thank you."

"When we walk together in a good way,
we share wonder as we wander and play."

"When we take care of the Land and Water,
the Land and Water take care of us.
Just like the braided Sweetgrass,
we are stronger together."

Also from the Afterword:
Watch, listen and wonder.
What is nature teaching you...?
How can you say thank you and show your gratitude?
Share your wonder and curiosity -----
Profile Image for Kaitlyn.
439 reviews
February 10, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for an honest review!

One of the authors is Mi’kmaq of the Mi’kmaw Nation, and the illustrator is Anishinaabe from the Saugeen First Nation, and those cultures are woven so beautifully into the book. As to be expected with the premise and who the authors are, but more-so in a way that is obvious in every way.

The illustrations are dynamic, and of some of the most beautiful illustrations I have seen so far in Indigenous picture books. The colors are bright and the designs show the connectivity to Indigenous culture and community. It adds a lot to the story in the way you would hope illustrations would. I could definitely picture children being immersed by all of the images.

The story and what is speaks to is beautiful, and it was fun to learn from a Mi’kmaq perspective and see where differences and similarities fall with other Indigenous cultures. Some of which is briefly mentioned at the end of the book. I think some of the words and messaging might be a bit difficult to understand to the targeted age group, but I do not see that as a hinderance. I think that is a wonderful way for kids to ask questions and for parents to have discussions with their children. There are tons of doors that can be opened by this book, as well as being something children can enjoy. Equal parts learning and enjoyment with this book.

I will definitely be recommending to everyone.
9,256 reviews130 followers
September 22, 2022
A very interesting book, for while some of the philosophy of it is obvious and universal, the language used seems specific to the Canadian First Nations, whom this publisher serve. This shows us what happens "when we walk together in a good way" – and what happens is we get to a state of mindfulness where we give credit for all of nature, and an understanding of what it can tell us. "Two-eyed seeing" is to use one eye on Indigenous ways of life, with the other bent towards the modern, Western viewpoint.

It's more than just tree-hugging, but it does tend to veer towards that, with what we experience seemingly a mixture of nature notes, the tribal legends of who we are and where we are at, and anything the passing frog, or blossom on the wind, or rocks care to tell us. Visually this is remarkable – I have seen some First Nations art in other books and expected the colour and the bold, black outlining that might seem so alien to one of our Western eyes at first, but this ramped up the colour and detail, and also offered at times a kind of fish-eye lens approach, with the perspective lines very fluid in the way they curve around our point of view.

All that is a verbose response to a short picture book – but to say this is just for picture book readers and no other audiences is clearly walking around in a bad way, with both eyes shut.
Profile Image for Moonkiszt.
3,100 reviews333 followers
February 15, 2023
Filled with an elder's guidance about how to live a respectful life on Turtle Island (Earth), this picture book moved me and my reading group - grandchildren with whom I am privileged to share books with from time to time.

Elder Albert Marshall and Louise Zimanyi take readers on a journey in which winter transitions to spring, and the repeated phrase "When we walk together in a good way. . . ." becomes a mantra about the different ways to approach our world with thoughtful consideration and respect. The illustrations are drawn in such a way that color and form describe the meaning and metaphor of the words on each page. Captured in a swooping style that moves us from page to page, the message is combined with inclusion of all who are on Turtle Island (Earth) - persons of all shades of human - with views below, on and above ground and sky; a view that includes all creatures - of all types of creature, in all types of element. All connected, all accepting all, and are reminders that often require repeating.

Walking Together would be a tremendous addition to any library, or a multiple perspective read for any group, offering messages we all need to hear in a new way.

A Sincere Thank you to Elder Dr. Albert D. Marshall and Louise Zimanyi, Annickpress, and NetGalley. #WalkingTogether #NetGalley
Profile Image for Sara.
439 reviews7 followers
June 21, 2023
Growing up we would often visit the mountains, whether on vacation or to my grandparents’ house. We would reach a point in the drive where the houses became sparse and trees would take those places. I’d often feel my shoulders relax and a deep breath would slowly escape me.

As an adult I try to get back to the mountains as often as possible. The trees give me a sense of peace that I have yet to find anywhere else. In between those times, I find joy in the day to day with my family and I try to read books that share the importance of nature.

Walking Together is a gentle reminder of the importance of balance within nature. That we as
humans need to honor that balance and help it along. Mother Nature is not ours to control or manipulate. My new favorite quote:

“When we walk together in a good way”

It can hold so many meanings, our kindness towards nature, our compassion towards others, our love for oneself.

Walking Together a truly a beautiful and spiritual book. An important read for all ages. The illustrations are captivating, with bold designs and colors, you are drawn in at every page.

Don’t forget to read the Afterword and the About the Authors and Illustrator notes!
Profile Image for Sam.
156 reviews1 follower
February 16, 2023
This book carries a great message for any season, but a perfect one for Spring as the weather warms and we start to head outdoors more and more often.

I so appreciated the visual and verbal reminders that walking as stewards of land and water falls on us all, young and old--together, as families and communities. The cadence of the book kept the attention of my younger children, while the content kept my early reader engaged. This will be a great one to read over and over again, and I anticipate it will also give us lots to talk about on our walks! This is a beautiful book, to read aloud and to look at, and it will make a great learning tool for those willing to engage.

I first heard about Walking Together through a CBC article online and immediately requested an ARC. So thankful to Annick Press & NetGalley for the opportunity to review this one early. I only wish it were coming out sooner in the United States, as it will be a couple weeks too late for Earth Day here. Regardless of the publication date, I have already pre-ordered a hardcopy for my family to have and another to gift.
Profile Image for Syntaxx.
415 reviews
September 25, 2022
Miigweetch NetGalley and Annick Press for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

I was drawn to this book immediately because of the artwork. Emily Kewageshig is a painter in the Woodland style created by artist Norval Morisseau, and simply seeing that type of art on the cover was a sign I needed to stop and take a closer look. The book tells a calm, simple story about being in nature and observing the changes taking place around us. The lessons in the story are important but subtly stated. The illustrations are striking and lovely to behold.

I recommend this book for elementary readers, especially class rooms or day care centers where environmental consciousness is part of the core curriculum. I also recommended it for anyone looking to add more Indigenous authors to their bookshelf.
Profile Image for Andrea Smith.
381 reviews4 followers
March 28, 2023
Walking Together
3. 5 Stars

Walking Together fosters a mutually respectful relationship between people and nature for the benefit of all. This book encourages sharing, living, and existing together. Whether that's individuals with different backgrounds or wildlife. This is a great book to teach young children to be mindful of their impact on earth.

I enjoyed the gorgeous nature and animal themes. The illustrations are unique and initially why I picked this book. I like the bold artwork with bright splashes of color.

Thank you, NetGalley and Annick Press Ltd., for an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
75 reviews
March 3, 2025
Walking Together is a Native American children's book about appreciating and celebrating the earth and the wonders you can see. This book shows the Native American beliefs when it comes to respecting the earth and taking time to protect and nurture the earth, that does the same for its people.

This book is a great way to teach about some Native American beliefs, but is also good for teaching children how to respect the earth. It also teaches children to slow down and admire the earth around them, noticing things they might not have noticed before. This would be great for a read aloud, followed by a trip outside to explore and notice things in nature.
Profile Image for Renae Stahl.
104 reviews48 followers
November 11, 2022
I love the message of groundedness and stewardship presented in "Walking Together." It is a beautiful and accessible way to help children experience their interconnectedness with the ecosystems and communities around them. The illustrator, Emily Kewageshig was the prefect choice for this project as her work effortlessly embodies these truths. This is an eye-catching work that any child (or adult!) would be delighted to have on their shelf.
Profile Image for Kristi.
49 reviews11 followers
March 3, 2023
A wonderful picture book from Annick Press! I received a copy from #NetGalley, and I am glad I did.

The text is beautiful and straightforward, introducing the concept of Etuaptmumk ("Two-Eyed Seeing") to young children. I love the variety of examples given to connect readers to the layers of bonds which exist between peoples and nature. The illustrations are gorgeous, with wonderful strong lines framing bright colors.
Profile Image for Melissa.
1,713 reviews25 followers
April 4, 2023
Written and illustrated by Canadian First Nations artists, Walking Together is a beautiful introduction to the concept of Two-Eyed Seeing, and Indigenous ideals of listening to the world around us and taking care of the world around us so it will be preserved for future generations. My only complaint is I wish it had a pronunciation guide for the Indigenous terms that are used occasionally throughout the book.
Profile Image for Sierra Wilson.
Author 17 books9 followers
April 5, 2023
A meditative, peaceful story about slowing down, learning from nature, and living in balance with the Earth. This book is written in a lyrical way and focuses on different lessons that can be learned in nature. The art is colourful and beautiful with many examples of children engaging with and learning from the natural world. This is a great book for anyone interested in learning more about living in balance with nature and about First Nations teachings.
Profile Image for Fahula.
399 reviews6 followers
December 24, 2023
This picture book promotes respect for our environment and all that it can teach us. As part of a read-aloud, children can benefit from hearing the afterword and information about the authors and illustrators which explain the concept of Two-Eyed Seeing - “which braids together the strengths of Indigenous and non-Indigenous ways of knowing.” The illustrations are gorgeous. They highlight the significance of the connections between all living things and culture.
Profile Image for Asha Blackwood.
19 reviews1 follower
February 13, 2023
This is an absolute treasure! This book conveys the messages of Braiding Sweetgrass in beautiful way appropriate for children but equally enjoyable for adults. The message is so sweet and the artwork is stunning! I preordered this book immediately and can’t wait to read it to my son!

Thank you NetGalley and Annick Press for providing an advance reading copy of the book.
Profile Image for Andrew.
1,984 reviews127 followers
March 2, 2023
Walking Together is all about nature and our relationship with it-- the observance of the little things, and how grateful we are for the world we live in. Accompanied by breathtaking art in a traditional Anishnaabe style, Walking Together is a book readers will want to spend time with over and over again.
Profile Image for Pam.
10k reviews57 followers
March 10, 2023
I received an electronic ARC from Annick Press Ltd. through NetGalley.
Softly focused illustrations help bring this message to readers. The text offers a look at living closer to other living beings and staying in connection with our world. Marshall tenderly shares this message with younger readers to instill a love and respect for all beings.
16 reviews
April 6, 2025
This story is about a group of children walking together with nature. We get to see the resposible and respectful relationship we can have with nature when listen to it.

This was a beautiful story about the imporatnce of our relationship with nature.

This story could be used in the classroom during circle time to talk about the importance of nature and taking care of it.
Profile Image for Bookishrealm.
3,307 reviews6,443 followers
September 10, 2025
Not only is the artwork absolutely stunning, but it's a story that reminds us all of our connection to the earth. Human impact on the Earth in recent decades has been devastating and it's stories like this that remind each reader of their duty to leave the Earth better than they found it. I recommend checking it out.
948 reviews
Read
August 17, 2023
This is a children's picture book that focuses on coexisting - with the land, with the animals, and with other people. Colorful illustrations (style obvious from the cover) abound. I appreciate the details that encourage you to give some attention to the entire pages.
Profile Image for Connie T..
1,642 reviews8 followers
April 22, 2024
I liked the concept (taking care of and appreciating the earth) that's at the heart of this story but I felt it wasn't explained very well. The author's note in the back provided more insights than the story did.
Profile Image for Kristen Morris.
176 reviews9 followers
February 21, 2023
Thank you for providing me the opportunity to review “Walking Together” prior to publication. I am appreciative and leave my sincerity review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Joey.
230 reviews
March 31, 2023
文字很美,很好地总结了native peoples的世界观,但是感觉有一点点过于笼统了~或许对于小朋友来说不太容易进入?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews

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