Li’l One – oskawasis

Li’l One – oskawasis
by Treena Wynes
Illustrated by Olha Tkachenko
Translated by Charlotte Ross
Published by Your Nickel’s Worth Publishing
Review by Sally Meadows
$19.95 ISBN 9781778690631

In the opening scene of Li’l One – oskawasis, a very pregnant woman looks up to the sky, arms wrapped around her belly, almost certainly daydreaming about her little one who will soon arrive. Gathered in the background, her extended family members smile with expectancy. This book is ostensibly about the birth of a child, but what really struck me was the emphasis on the significant role community–both people and natural setting–plays in welcoming a First Nations baby into the fold.

This beautifully illustrated story is told with eager anticipation, as the entire family prepares for the child’s birth. We see key cultural elements of Cree-speaking peoples as grandparents lovingly craft a cradle board and moccasins, while aunties and uncles, respectively, bead regalia and hunt for the impending celebratory feast. We also see how nature–the birds, the wind, the trees, and the moon–extend a welcoming invitation to the baby soon to be born.

The book is replete with lovely phrasing from author Treena Wynes including this one: “You’re a gift from Creator is what we are told, borrowed and sacred, but for now ours to hold.” Indeed, the birth of a child is held reverently in this book as he or she takes his or her place within the community at large.

Included throughout the book are key Woodland Cree words that emphasize the narrative’s most important elements. This is an engaging and indeed pertinent way to educate children and those who read to them about the Cree peoples on whom the story is based, while helping to highlight and preserve their language through generations to come.

Treena Wynes is an award-winning author and member of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band. She is a registered social worker, former executive director of three Indigenous non-profit organizations, and supports the development and enhancement of culturally grounded prevention programs in First Nations communities. This is her first children’s picture book.

Olha Tkachenko is a Ukrainian-born freelance visual artist who has illustrated many children’s books, including a number that are award winning.

Translator Charlotte Ross is a member of the Montreal Lake Cree Nation. She is passionate about preserving the Woodland Cree language for future generations.

THIS BOOK IS AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL BOOKSTORE OR FROM WWW.SKBOOKS.COM.