Tasha Beeds: Joanne Robertson's children's book The Water Walker will resonate with readers of all ages
June is Indigenous Book Club Month and National Indigenous History Month in Canada. To celebrate, CBC Books is asking Indigenous artists, community leaders and advocates to share their favourite #IndigenousReads.
Water Walker, academic and community activist Tasha Beeds chose the picture book The Water Walker by Joanne Robertson.
"The book that has currently captured my heart is The Water Walker by Joanne Robertson. As one of the key helpers and coordinators, Joanne captures beautifully, from an insider's perspective, the spirit of our water protection movement known as Water Walking brought to life by Anishinaabe (Ojibway) Nohkomis (Grandmother) Josephine Mandamin. While geared towards a younger audience, the story will resonate with anyone who envisions a future where the earth and waters are kept clean and safe for the next generations.
"My three-year-old granddaughter Aurora was captivated by Nohkomis Josephine's voice and the eye catching illustrations, as were the 30 kindergarten children I read the book to in a classroom visit celebrating the Water! The Water Walker truly brings Indigenous people's connections to the land and waters to life in keeping with our rich storytelling traditions. It will definitely become one of those special books that will inspire many just as Josephine Mandamin, herself has!"
Tasha Beeds is a Professor and Ph.D Candidate in Indigenous Studies. Of nêhiyaw ancestry, she is a second degree Midewiwin member of the Minweyweywigaan Lodge out of Roseau River, Man. and Wiikwemkoong Unceded Reserve. As a Water Walker and Mide woman, Tasha is dedicated to moving in Ceremony for the Water, Lands, and for the generations to come. She is firmly committed to the continual resurgence and revitalization of Indigenous thought, knowledges and sovereignty.