First Nations 101: Tons of Stuff You Need to Know (2nd edition) by Lynda Gray, member of the Gisbutwada (killer whale) Clan of the Ts'msyen Nation and the community of Lax Kw’alaams, is a comprehensive, accessible overview of the real history of Canada as it relates to Indigenous people.
First Nations 101 sheds light on a wide range of topics, from cultural practices and societal structures, and holistic health and wellness to the lasting effects of the Indian Act, which legislated mandatory attendance at residential schools, among other detrimental policies. This expanded second edition with 16 new chapters delves into traditional Indigenous communities, the colonial interventions aimed at assimilating Indigenous people into mainstream society, and the profound impact of these interventions on Indigenous communities.
Designed for Indigenous and non-Indigenous readers, First Nations 101 is a valuable tool for educators, students, and anyone interested in making meaningful change.
$1 from each book sold will be donated to the Ts’msyen Revolution Fund to help support Ts’msyen language and culture revitalization in laxyuubm Ts’msyen (Ts’msyen territory).

Lynda Gray is a member of the Tsimshian Nation. She has worked in the field of community development since obtaining a Bachelor of Social Work in 1999 and is currently executive director of the Urban Native Youth Association. As a First Nations woman who grew up in the inner city, where she raised her two children, she has faced many of the challenges identified in First Nations 101. Her writing has appeared in various publications, including the Georgia Straight. She lives in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Lynda Gray's profile page

"First Nations 101 was an invaluable resource when I was teaching Indigenous principles and history to Social Justice 12 students. It helped students begin the journey to decolonize their thinking and used language that made it accessible to the range of reading abilities in my class. I highly recommend First Nations 101 for all high school students!"

Teacher at Charles Hays Secondary School

"When I read Lynda Gray’s engaging and easy-to-read book First Nations 101, I immediately invited her to Bowen Island to present at my reconciliation initiative, Knowing Our Place. I appreciate her ability to take on even the most difficult subjects in a straightforward, optimistic way. Her practical solutions to problems created by colonization continue to motivate me, as well as those who attended her talk. The second edition is even more important as it is coming at a time when more and more people are open to having real conversations about issues that affect many of us today."

Knowing Our Place

"With a wry, dispassionate, and direct approach, Lynda Gray unpacks over 70 topics in First Nations 101. It allowed our team at Vancouver Opera to begin our journey of reconciliation from a factual foundation, with a clear and honest text that lays bare the horrific truth of Canada’s shameful relationship with Indigenous populations. A primer, a guide, but also a clear clarion call to urgent and immediate action."

Vancouver Opera

"First Nations 101 is a critically important teaching tool in helping our staff understand the history of colonization so they can best support the youth we serve. Author Lynda Gray guides readers to a greater understanding and awareness of our shared history, which benefits both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. I am thrilled to hear there will be a second edition as it will continue encouraging the path to healing and true reconciliation."

Urban Native Youth Association

"The words of Lynda Gray pass on to us knowledge of rich indigenous culture and traditions with meaning and understanding . . . Her words ignite and illuminate the reader’s understanding in ways that inspire us to become active in reconciliation that activates healing messaging over the past and acknowledges honor that is deserved."

Executive Director of the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association (CPCA)

"I have endless appreciation and gratitude for this precious, insightful and educational publication . . . This is a must read for all as we work to fulfill our individual and collective efforts to true reconciliACTION."

Independent Senator

"First Nations 101 helps us to understand what Reconciliation is, how it benefits all Canadians, and how we can be a great ally to Indigenous people. It provides us with an overview of the cultural, historical, and social realities of First Nations people, which will allow us to truly see First Nations people for their resilience and full potential."

Missioner for Indigenous Justice, Anglican Diocese of New Westminster

"I use First Nations 101 with grade 11 and 12 students and as a book study with adults as it provides historical context, factual evidence, and tangible suggestions pertaining to truth and reconciliation. The language is accessible, making it a good option for both personal enjoyment and education. Through extensive research and personal experience, author Lynda Gray does a great job of providing readers with the contextual information and foundational knowledge needed to begin — or continue — a personal learning journey towards reconciliation."

Indigenous Education SD52