Teoni Spathelfer tells the story of Little Wolf, who moves to the city and away from the place she had always called home. Feeling as though she doesn’t belong in the city, Little Wolf knows she will need to rely on her culture to remain true to her identity. Although it isn’t easy, Little Wolf finds ways to connect with her culture, including the animals she comes across in the city. Being true to her authentic self, Little Wolf learns to survive her new location in a way she doubted was possible. Many children struggle with a feeling of displacement when they are forced to relocate to another school or community. Spathelfer’s Little Wolf is an inspiring read and encouraging story for any child feeling discouraged or disconnected. This story would be a welcome addition to any primary or low intermediate classroom.

32 pp., 9 × 9", colour illustrations

Teoni Spathelfer (Heiltsuk Nation) • Natassia Davies (Coast Salish), illus.

Source: Association of Book Publishers of BC - Canadian Indigenous Books for Schools (2021-2022)

Teoni Spathelfer is a member of the Heiltsuk Nation from coastal BC. Since childhood she has loved immersing herself in her own culture and learning about other cultures around the world. Spathelfer has worked as a publicist; a radio journalist, host, and producer; an arts and music writer; and the author of the Little Wolf Series of picture books. Her documentary Teoni’s Dream, informed by her mother’s residential school experience, has aired nationwide on CBC Radio. Her photography has been featured across various media and sold privately. She has been blessed with three daughters and four grandchildren.

Teoni Spathelfer's profile page

Natassia Davies is a BC-based artist and graphic designer and is of Coast Salish ancestry. For nearly a decade, Natassia has worked traditionally and digitally to create illustrations, develop visual brand identities, and design various other visual communications tools for local businesses, individuals, and non-profits. She is the illustrator of the Little Wolf Series, by Teoni Spathelfer, and she also works with other First Nations Peoples and Indigenous groups to create educational tools and public art pieces. Natassia has collaborated on multiple large-scale Indigenous murals that can be found throughout Sooke and Victoria’s harbour.

Natassia Davies' profile page

"...the strength of Little Wolf lies in how it gently moves from personal challenges towards hope and in its unifying thread of pride in one’s culture.... Recommended.""
—CM: Canadian Review of Materials

"Overall, this is an inspiring contemporary story for all children, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, about a Heiltsuk girl growing up and overcoming obstacles [...] by embracing her culture and ultimately being true to herself and her identity."
—Canadian Children's Book News, Winter 2021