• Age: 4 to 8
• Grade: p to 3

"What is it, Noko?" Grandmother does not answer. Somehow, I feel that we are being watched and she knows what is there. "I will go and see what it might be." And then I add, "I'll be careful."

Although I try to sound brave, I don't want to go into the dark corner where the fire does not glow. I remind myself that I have been in the woods many times and was never afraid before. I walk toward the huge white pine that hides what could be there. Again, I feel a wind tapping my back. I look behind me. There is nothing.

As night sets in and the fire crackles, a young native girl is amazed when he grandmother invokes the spirits of their ancestors. She learn the mystical firedance and creates a bond with her people and their heritage that will last a lifetime.

Jan Bourdeau Waboose is First Nation Anishinaabe of the Ojibway Bear Clan from northern Ontario. Through her writing, she conveys the Indigenous life she sees in her family, friends and community. She is the author of the picture books Morning on the Lake, SkySisters and The Spirit Trackers.

Jan Bourdeau Waboose's profile page

An intriguing glimpse of American Indian tradition.
- Orange County Register