Dandurand tells the story of a Sasquatch, a “wild or hairy man” (from the Sts’ailes word Sasq’ets). This Sasquatch grows up alone, finds a mate, raises a family, and heroically saves them from a forest fire. Familiar human emotions and wishes are attributed to the young Sasquatch, making him relatable to children. The playful mixed-media illustrations will draw readers into the natural landscapes and story. Teachers may choose this resource to introduce Sasquatch, a spirit of the cedar forest; to consider the perspective of a non-human character; to highlight the concept of living in harmony with nature; and to provide an opportunity to sequence story events. Sasquatch models courage and a calm, happy outlook on life. This resource is suitable as a read-aloud, or as independent reading for older students.

32 pp., 7 × 8.5", colour photographs and illustrations

Joseph Dandurand (Kwantlen First Nation) • Simon Daniel James (Mamalilikulla/Kwicksutaineuk clans from the Kwakwaka’wakw nation), illus.

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

JOSEPH A. DANDURAND is a member of Kwantlen First Nation located on the Fraser River east of Vancouver. He is the Heritage and Lands Officer for the Kwantlen territory and has been performing his duties for over 15 years. He has been a Playwright-in-Residence for the Museum of Civilization in Hull in 1995 and for Native Earth in Toronto in 1996. He studied Theatre and Direction at Algonquin College and University of Ottawa. His poems have appeared in numerous journals and anthologies. He has also authored a radio script which was produced by CBC Radio in 1999.RANDY MORIN is a teacher, storyteller and English-Cree translator from the Big River First Nation, Treaty Six area. He is specializing in literary, radio and video translations from English to Cree. He is a strong supporter of maintaining and teaching of Cree language and culture and shares this knowledge in the classroom as a high school teacher in Saskatoon, SK.

Joseph Dandurand's profile page

Simon Daniel James is an Indigenous artist from the Mamalilikulla/Kwicksutaineuk clans from the Kwakwaka’wakw nation. James began to draw in elementary school and to carve wood at the age of fifteen. He is an acclaimed painter and carver, and is also the co-creator of “Raven Tales,” the multi-award winning television show that introduces Indigenous stories to young audiences through CGI animation. He was born in Alert Bay, BC and currently lives on Bowen Island, BC.

Simon Daniel James' profile page

“Visually striking and unusual, this picture book makes the myth of Sasquatch come alive.”

<i>Kirkus Reviews</i>