Meet Buffy Sainte-Marie, written by Elizabeth MacLeod and illustrated by Mike Deas. Scholastic, 2023. $18.99 ages 8 and up

"For years Buffy traveled the world, spending 
time in great cities and also Indigenous 
communities in Europe and Asia. She saw how 
people in media and education often disrespected
Indigenous Peoples. As a teacher and an entertainer, 
she wanted to give the whole world a better 
understanding about the past, present and future
contributions of Indigenous Peoples."

As they have done in the previous ten books in the Scholastic Canada Biography series, this collaborative team has designed a book that brings another Canadian icon to the attention of middle grade readers. Their careful research and inviting artwork introduce a music legend, teacher, and inveterate activist.

Buffy Sainte-Marie does not know for sure when she was born, or where. It is thought to be in the 'early 1940s on the Piapot First Nation reserve, in the Qu'Appelle Valley, Saskatchewan. At that time, Indigenous children were being taken from their families and home communities, and adopted. Buffy was adopted by the Sainte-Marie family and grew up in the United States. Her adoptive parents knew nothing of her heritage or culture. Her mother told her she would be able to learn more when she was older. 

As she grew, Buffy was bullied. She found solace in music and playing the piano. She learned 'by ear' and was soon writing her own songs. She learned to play guitar at 16, without any help.  She went to university and began writing songs, performing them at clubs and larger venues. They spoke to her consciousness concerning unfair treatment of soldiers and war. Her further musical success led to many opportunities, including some acting roles. 

One led to her bringing attention to unfair portrayals of Indigenous people. She made sure that Indigenous actors were hired to portray Indigenous characters ... a first time. With money earned from her music she helped provide better educational opportunities for Indigenous youth. She worked tirelessly to bring understanding through her music, despite government setbacks. She continued writing music that inspired young people, all the while championing Indigenous rights and culture. 

Many accomplishments, awards, musical and artistic endeavours led to her using technology to bring kids together. Today, she is writing picture books for young children. Her career, spanning 60 years, is a 

reason for celebration. 

"Her songs talk about putting an end to war, 
standing up for human rights, celebrating 
Indigenous cultures, and protecting the Earth." 

What better role model could youth seek to emulate?

 

A timeline of Buffy's life is appended, and accompanied by a number of archival photos. 

https://buffysainte-marie.com/