THE GREAT GATHERING PLACE
by Naomi McIlwraith ; illustrated by Onedove
Readers join a poetic journey honoring Indigenous community and heritage.
As a canoe passes downstream, a paddler extends a strong hand. “Let’s go to the Great Gathering Place. / kihci-mâmawi-ayâwinihk itohtêtân. / …Come, I’ll take you in my big red canoe.” After traveling along the river and arriving “on the other shore,” we join in a reflective celebration that stretches days and pays homage to the spiritual and human connections that bring strength to the community. Tawny-skinned generations share moments of belonging and revelry and emphasize the importance of gratitude, generosity, and interrelation throughout varied activities. McIlwraith’s (Métis) welcoming first-person text is succinct, with certain phrases featured in Cree (with transliterations). Onedove's (Cree/Métis) detailed and exuberant, jewel-toned digital illustrations show us the people gathered in nature, surrounded by land, water, sky, animals, and their revered ancestors. Backmatter includes a pronunciation guide and glossary of Cree words and phrases, one of which identifies the Great Gathering Place as the North Saskatchewan River. This gracious portrait of a significant event suits anyone gathering for a family reunion, but its true power lies in its specificity and authenticity. Readers feel the particular joy of being welcomed into an extended Indigenous communal gathering.
A vibrant and vicarious honor.
(Picture book. 4-8)