It’s Time for Berries is a suitable read-aloud or read-to-self book for primary students. The authors share a wholesome look at a contemporary Inuit family participating in traditional activities. Two children enjoy time with their ningiuq (grandmother) gathering food through three seasons. Although picking berries is their favourite activity, they happily help Grandma catch fish and dig clams in the months before berry-picking season. While gathering food, especially berries, Grandma models determination, persistence, and stamina. Wind, rain, and even snow do not stop her from picking berries. The simple, descriptive language keeps the story flowing, while embedded Inuit words are explained in the glossary. The colourful illustrations provide a detailed glimpse into traditional food-gathering activities and the land and plant life through spring, summer, and fall. This resource supports Social Studies and Science learning, seasons, connection to land, family, and the Far North.

Other End Matter: Glossary, Pronunciation guide
Images: Colour illustrations
Contributor Affiliation: Authors Ceporah Mearns (Inuit) and Jeremy Debicki, Illustrator Tinder Peturs
Bibliography: No
Index: No

Source: Books BC - Indigenous Books for Schools

Ceporah Mearns is from Pangnirtung, Nunavut, but calls Iqaluit, Nunavut home. She lives there with her husband and their children, Siasi and Siloah. Together, they enjoy cooking family dinners, visiting friends and family, going sliding, and spending time at their cabin. Siasi inspired this story by always coming up with so many things she needs to do when it’s time for bed.

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Jeremy Debicki is from Winnipeg, Manitoba, but calls Iqaluit, Nunavut, his home. He lives there with his wife and their children, Siasi and Siloah. They enjoy cooking family dinners, visiting friends and family, going sliding, and spending time at their cabin. Siasi inspired this story by always coming up with so many things she needs to do when it’s time for bed. Jeremy is the co-author of the bestselling picture book It's Time for Bed.

 

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Tindur Peturs is an animator and illustrator, born and raised in Iceland, who moved to Canada to study animation and Canadian culture. They have a love for nature, animals, and the power of storytelling.

 

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• Best Books for Kids and Teens
• Winner, Bookstagang Best of 2023 Picture Book Awards