Description
The author Hannah Bouvier is Métis and was born and raised in Medicine Hat, part of the Métis homelands in South-eastern Alberta. Her family names are Bouvier, Carriere, Dauphnais, and LaPlante. Illustrated by Kate Boyer, a Métis artist from St. Laurent valley in Saskatchewan. She grew up hearing Michif spoken daily with deep connection to her Métis roots. She is a multidisciplinary artist, whose work is focused on methods bound to textile arts and the handmade - primarily woodworking and beadwork.
From the Acknowledgement: "This Michif children's book began as part of the Lii Aanfans pi Lii Mataants children's book community project led by Dr. Cindy Gaudet, who brought us together to share, laugh and write. We are thankful for the funding by SILR (Supporting Indigenous Language Revitalization) for investing in generations of Michif Faam storytellers, language carriers and artists. We are especially grateful to Wilfred Burton's mentorship and love of Métis stories. This fictional story was inspired by my love for dandelions and all the ways they have looked after me and my family for generations. I am thankful for Lorraine Coutu for the Michif version of the story, and for Angela Rancourt's second pair of Michif eyes."
Little Hay loves the bright yellow dandelions that dance across the prairie hills. She gathers them into bouquets, shares them with loved ones, and sends wishes soaring on the wind. As the fluffy seeds drift away to begin new journeys, Little Hay discovers that even the smallest flowers can spread joy far beyond where they first take root.
Presented in both English and Michif, Dancing Dandelions / Pissanlii Dansan is a heartwarming children's story that celebrates family, kindness, generosity, and the gifts found on the land. Inspired by Métis traditions and teachings, this beautifully illustrated picture book invites young readers to see the wonder in everyday moments and the connections that tie generations together.
Perfect for families, classrooms, and libraries, Dancing Dandelions introduces children to Michif language and Métis culture while sharing an uplifting story about friendship, wishes, and the beauty of nature.
Features:
• English and Michif bilingual text
• Beautiful full-colour illustrations
• Métis cultural themes and land-based learning
• Information about dandelions and their traditional uses
• A simple dandelion jelly recipe to explore at home and more!
A gentle story about planting kindness, sharing joy, and watching dreams take flight. Audience: 1-7 years.