• Age: 4 to 7
• Grade: p to 2

Alex is attending her first Mi'kmaw spiritual gathering, or mawiomi. Though she is timid at first, older cousin Matthew takes her under his wing. Meeting Elders along the way, they learn about traditional Mi'kmaw culture: the sacred fire, drumming, tanning and moccasin decorating, basket- and canoe-making, and enjoy a Mi'kmaw feast. Most importantly, Alex finds her voice in the talking circle.

With contemporary illustrations by the bestselling illustrator Art Stevens, The Gathering is an inclusive story that will educate and entertain Indigenous and non-Indigenous readers alike.

Born and raised in the Bear River Mi'kmaq First Nation Community, Theresa Meuse-Dallien graduated from Dalhousie University in 1990 and was employed for several years in sharing Mi'kmaw culture in the schools. Theresa has published several articles, and presently shares cultural knowledge with government and other groups. The stories she shares are teachings passed on from the Elders.

Theresa Meuse's profile page

Arthur Stevens is a Mi’kmaq community member from Millbrook First Nation in Nova Scotia. Throughout his professional and personal life Arthur has worked with and for Indigenous peoples and organizations across Atlantic Canada. As a published artist, illustrator, and graphic designer, Arthur is an award-winning Indigenous professional who takes pride in sharing his creative works and is always looking for artistic opportunities that engage and promote connections between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.

Art Stevens' profile page

• Winner, Best Books for Kids and Teens, Spring
• Short-listed, First Nation Communities Read

"Teachers, librarians, and parents looking to purchase and use authentic indigenous children's literature will be rewarded by the book. A Mi'kmaw reader will be pleased to see her or his culture respectfully represented in a manner that embraces the past and present." —Canadian Review of Materials