We Listen

The third book in the Nohkom series, ninitohtênân/We Listen by Caitlin Dale Nicholson and Leona Morin-Neilson, readers connect with Elders and head onto the land to pick leaves for Labrador Tea.

A family heads out on an adventure to the lake for a picnic and picks leaves for Labrador tea. Through the simple text, readers learn how to listen and have patience as Nohkom teaches.

This dual language book written in Cree and English as well as Cree syllabics, is a beautiful story about connection to the land and listening to Elders. Through the sharing of the Cree language and syllabics, the book ensures that the Cree language will continue to thrive in modern times.

This book is a mediation of sorts. It offers readers a chance to slow down and rest in stillness. Short repetitive phrases throughout the book offer an opportunity to pause while taking in the gorgeous artwork on each two page spread. I love how first Nohkom does something and then the children do, demonstrating the importance and reverence of Elders in First Nations communities.

Caitlin Dale Nicholson’s art in this book is stunning! The paintings are acrylic and perfectly suited to sharing the book with a large group. The illustrations take on different qualities whether viewed up close or from afar, making this a dynamic book that readers will want to enjoy over and over again.