The Big Tease explores the childhood of the historical Métis figure Édouard Beaupré, while providing a humanizing touch to his life story. The Michif language spread throughout the narrative greatly enhances the reader’s knowledge of Métis culture and traditional Métis life on the Prairies. Presented in both English and Michif, with translation by Norman Fleury, The Big Tease also offers a helpful glossary of Michif terms to further explore Métis life, values, and history. Additionally, a three-page review of Édouard Beaupré’s life is provided, allowing the reader to gain a deeper understanding of this legendary figure’s beginning, fame, and tragic death.

54 pp., 8.5 × 11", colour illustrations, b&w photographs

Wilfred Burton (Métis) • George Gingras (Métis), illus.

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

Wilfred Burton, a proud Michif, grew up in the Midnight Lake area of Saskatchewan. He was an elementary teacher, university instructor, and literacy coordinator before retiring. In retirement, he is extremely busy doing contract work for various educational publishers, and volunteering at Gabriel Dumont Métis Local 11, Li Toneur Niimiyitoohk Métis Dance, the Open Door Society, and various other organizations. Wilfred is the author of several Métis-specific children’s picture books, including the Fiddle Dancer series, which he co-authored with Anne Patton. He wrote Roogaroo Mickey, Road Allowance Kitten, The Big Tease, Road Allowance Kitten: Broken Promises, and a set of emergent readers called the Taanishi Books, co-authored with Angela Caron. He also co-authored Master of the Métis Fiddle with Cheryl Troupe; John Arcand: The Man, The Music, The Festival with Cheryl Troupe, and John and Vicki Arcand; as well as Let Me See Your Fancy Steps with Sylvie Roy and Jeanne Pelletier. His identity and love of Métis storytelling, fiddle music, and dance was a gift from his mother, Georgina Nolin. Currently you might find Wilfred beading, working in the garden, practising the fiddle, or playing with his two feline friends, Leo and Baptiste (Ba-chees).

Wilfred Burton's profile page

George Gingras' profile page

Originally from St. Lazare, Manitoba, Norman Fleury is a gifted storyteller and teacher. Dedicated to the conservation and promotion of the Michif language, he has contributed to dozens of language resources. He currently teaches Michif in the College of Education at the University of Saskatchewan.

Norman Fleury's profile page