What does it mean to belong?

Brené Brown says that 'belonging does not equal fitting in.' True belonging means that we do not need to change who we are, because when we are accepted just as we are. In  This is my first children's book and was published in May 2023. The story itself however has been a long time coming. It is inspired by the true story of how my oldest son found belonging in daycare as one of the only Indigenous children who attended there. A significant and life changing experience for both of us and a story that still inspires me in the work I do today. If a child who is learning to walk and talk, is able to know whether they belong or not, then I know that sharing culture, knowledge, and traditions is invaluable in the world. I was able to to share our story at a recent keynote presentation for OE Global Conference on open education. As MC for the Supporting Indigenous Language Revitalization 2024 conference I was able to share and sell all the copies I brought with me. Hiy-hiy to Dolores Greyeyes Sand for helping with the Cree language translation and Azby Whitecalf for the vivid images and illustrations. Both are essential in bringing the story to life. I encourage more people to learn about creating safe and welcoming spaces that promote true belonging, not just 'fitting in'. Having worked in the education system for over a decade (and received an award for my work which I wrote about here) I know that belonging is an essential part of the curriculum for younger grades. However, the best practices when it comes to Indigenous inclusion and true belonging being taught and actually practiced everyday is something that I continue to struggle with when it comes to the education system. Some of the places that have welcomed me in to share include the Calgary Public Library, South Country Fair, virtual events, libraries, schools and community events across Alberta.

Some of the reviews and feedback for "We Belong to the Drum" include a 5/5 rating from Children's Literature.

We Belong to the Drum is a 2024 CLEL Bell Award Winner! Read the announcement here.
Thank you to all my friends and family who supported me!

Read the Publisher's Weekly review here. 

*You can purchase my book through Orca Books here. Stay tuned for Peyak Little Duck coming Spring 2025! 

"This title exemplifies the importance of inclusion and belonging and offers a sense of community, whether it be with family, at cultural events or at daycare. The illustrations are bright, vivid, and joyful and they serve as a wonderful supplement to the text. Recommended for school, home and public libraries."                               
- Canadian Children’s Book News (https://bookcentre.ca/canadian-childrens-book-news)