Description
Wilfred Burton, a proud Michif, grew up in the Midnight Lake area of Saskatchewan. He was an elementary teacher, university instructor and literacy coordinator for over 30 years. He is a published author of several Métis-specific picture books. His love of storytelling, fiddle music, and dance was a gift from his mother, Georgina Nolin—a gift he loves to share with others through presentations and writing. Natalie Laurin is a Métis and white settler illustrator and designer. Natalie holds a Bachelor of Design from NSCAD University, where she majored in Interdisciplinary Design and minored in Illustration. Her Métis family roots (the Dusome-Clermont and Labatte family lines) belong to the Georgian Bay Métis community centred at Penetanguishene. (Michif) Translation by: Norman Fleury.
Gabby loves her big Métis family more than anything in the world. She especially loves her Mooshoom and Koohkoom, whose house is always of warmth, joy, good food, and traditional fiddle music.
One year, Mooshoom gives Gabby her own fiddle, a gift she treasures. But before he can teach her how to play it, Gabby and her mom have move away from their beloved home community. Every year, when they return for a visit, Mooshoom asks Gabby if she has learned how to play yet. Every year, she has to admit that she hasn’t—until one special holiday, when Gabby gives the best gift ever to her Mooshoom.
The Best Gift, written in English and Michif, is a beautifully illustrated testament to the enduring bonds of culture, tradition, and family. Audience: Ages 3-8.