Reviewed by Debbie Reese
Review Source: American Indians in Children’s Literature
Book Author: Nicola I. Campbell
If the hurt and grief we carry is a woven blanket, it is time to weave ourselves anew.
In the Nłeʔkepmxcín language, spíləx̣m are remembered stories, often shared over tea in the quiet hours between Elders. Rooted within the British Columbia landscape, and with an almost tactile representation of being on the land and water, Spíləx̣m explores resilience, reconnection, and narrative memory through stories.
Captivating and deeply moving, this story basket of memories tells one Indigenous woman’s journey of overcoming adversity and colonial trauma to find strength through creative works and traditional perspectives of healing, transformation, and resurgence.
And now, the Short and Sweet Rec:
First, Nicola I Campbell is Nłeʔkepmx, Syilx, and Métis, and she’s written several excellent books we’ve recommended before, such as Shin-Chi’s Canoe.
Second: “remembered stories.” I don’t know why, but those two words are — for me — searing and joyous within the same instance. It it like an eruption of emotion within me. Continue reading.
Spílexm by Nicola I. Campbell
Published by Portage & Main Press on September 28, 2021
Genres: American Indians First Nations Metis Inuit
Pages: 336
Reading Level: High School
ISBN: 9781553799351
Review Source: American Indians in Children's Literature
Also by this author: A Day with Yayah
Publisher's Synopsis: If the hurt and grief we carry is a woven blanket, it is time to weave ourselves anew.
In the Nleʔkepmxcín language, spíləx̣m are remembered stories, often shared over tea in the quiet hours between Elders. Rooted within the British Columbia landscape, and with an almost tactile representation of being on the land and water, Spíləx̣m explores resilience, reconnection, and narrative memory through stories.
Captivating and deeply moving, this story basket of memories tells one Indigenous woman's journey of overcoming adversity and colonial trauma to find strength through creative works and traditional perspectives of healing, transformation, and resurgence.
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