Written by Métis author Willie Poll, this is a powerful story about the strength and resilience of girls and women who are supported by their female ancestors. This story follows an adventurous Anishinaabe girl on a journey of understanding in the face of darkness and uses rhyming text and vivid imagery to captivate the attention of all readers. On her Vision Quest, the young girl connects with elements of the spirit world who guide her with Teachings about perseverance, courage, and love. Beautifully illustrated by Rama First Nation artist Chief Lady Bird, this book offers readers contemporary images of culture and community in a distinct Anishinaabe style with bold details and bright colours. With a message of love and light, this book would complement lessons for elementary students on the topic of Red Dress Day.

Other End Matter: Acknowledgements
Images: Colour illustrations
Contributor Affiliation: Author Willie Poll (Métis), Illustrator Chief Lady Bird (Chippewa and Potawatomi)
Bibliography: No
Index: No

Source: Books BC - Indigenous Books for Schools

Willie Poll is a proud Metis author from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, who who has spent the last ten years working in Indigenous education. She is very passionate about supporting Indigenous youth to reach their dreams and reclaim their power. Together We Drum, Our Hearts Beat as One is her first book.

Willie Poll's profile page

Chief Lady Bird is an Anishinaabe artist/illustrator from Rama First Nation. She graduated from OCADU in 2015 with a BFA in Drawing and Painting and a minor in Indigenous Visual Culture. She is the illustrator of Nibi's Water Song by Sunshine Tenesco and has illustrated for Audible, Vice, and Twitter, among others.

Chief Lady Bird's profile page

• Short-listed, Indigenous Voices Award

From the lovely florals to the thunderbird and ribbon skirts, [Chief Lady Bird's] stunning artwork speaks to Anishnaabe culture throughout ... This is a wonderful read for children and their families that demonstrates the power of ancestral connection, strength, resistance, and resilience. -Quill and Quire (STARRED REVIEW)

In this empowering picture book, themes of family and transformation are enhanced by Chief Lady Bird's beautiful illustrations. -Quill and Quire