Is there room on your summer reading list?

Are you looking for a book to add to your summer reading list? I suggest a paperback titled “Anishanaabe World” by Roger Spielmann that was enjoyable and informative. Susie Jones, an elder from Walpole Island, recently recommended “Anishnaabe World” as a good source for those who want to increase their knowledge and understanding of our neighbours who are members of First Nations. Susie explains that the book is a down-to-earth and good natured way to introduce non-aboriginals to aboriginal peoples. She further commented, “Spielmann’s writing stays true to First Nations’ culture and resonates with both aboriginal and non-aboriginal alike”.

Spielmann’s purpose is succinctly captured in the book’s subtitle, “A Survival Guide for Building Bridges between Canada and First Nations”.  He has penned a short, humourous cross-cultural guide in less than 200 pages. The book offers numerous examples from his own non-aboriginal experience of living in a First Nation’s community.

As one who has spent many years living North of Sixty, “Anishanaabe World” reminded me of many truths I learned over time. The book also addresses in humourous ways the many differences between our two cultures. It offers us, as non-aboriginals, a glimpse into relating to life and others in an alternative, beautiful way.

I’d be interested in receiving your feedback after you have read this entertaining book.

Nacy Wales csj
nwales@csj.london.on.ca

Nancy Wales is a Sister of St. Joseph. Nancy spent 22 years (1981-2003)
ministering in northern Canada as an educator in the Yellowknife Catholic
Schools. She feels privileged, while in the north, to have learned many
things from the Dogrib people.