The incredible Buffy Sainte-Marie is not only an award winning singer/songwriter but of late she has also added the title of author to her biography. Still This Love Goes on, Illustrated by the incredible Julie Flett, is a love letter to children, families and love.

The lyrics of Buffy Sainte-Marie’s song Still This Love Goes On are woven in and out of the heartwarming illustrations by Julie Flett to create a visual experience for readers and a book that will make everyone’s new child gift buying list. This story is absolutely begging to be gifted to new families however they come together.

It’s a celebration of all of life’s little wonders, of seasons changing, families growing, communities and especially a celebration of the Cree community. All of the beauty in the language, the culture and the traditions that are still here despite hundreds of years of colonialism. It’s a story that will send goosebumps up and down your arms and makes a beautiful addition to any bookshelf.

Beyond being an exceptional book for new families, educators can certainly use this story in their classrooms, celebrating their classroom community and creating a full sensory experience. Pair the visual of the illustrations with Buffy Sainte-Marie singing the song that inspired the book. Readers are also gifted the lyrics and sheet music for the song to be able to recreate the song themselves along with notes from both Buffy Sainte-Marie and Julie Flett at the back explaining the importance of the story.

Always, always, Julie Flett’s illustrations are iconic. They represent the Cree community and always exude the love and pride of her people as well as the Cree worldview. Muted but bold colours, beautiful jinger dancers and landscapes fill the two page spreads inviting all readers into the story.