"Our lighthouse stands on an island. All the
colors of the sky reflect on the white shingles
and red roof. Built to help ships on Georgian
Bay find the Byng Inlet channel, it shines a big
light from the tower across the water day and
night. The light warns boats that they need to be
careful because of the rocky shoreline and shoals.
Sunset is a special time to imagine stories in my
head. West of the island is water as far as I can
see. Other small islands rest nearby, mounds of
rock that look like the backs of giant sleeping
turtles. Can you imagine if one day the islands
start to move like turtles waking up from a nap?
I love to picture bay turtles walking through the
channels, so big their feet touch bottom in the
deep water. They may even munch on a whole
pine tree for a snack."
It is 1914, and Bernice Lamondin and her family operate the lighthouse on Gereaux Island, Byng Inlet, Georgian Bay on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg. In her imagined account of Bernice's family and their history, Jessica Outram begins with Bernice exploring the waters of Georgian Bay in her rowboat. She loves the water, its shores, and the beauty she finds there.
Upon her return home to the lighthouse, readers are introduced to her family: her brothers Ernest, William and Alcide, her sister Florence, her mom and dad, and her memer, the family storyteller. When she wakes in the morning, it is to discover a man asleep in the living room. She eventually learns his name is Tom, His presence is a mystery that consumes Bernice; his story will become part of her quest to help her family by finding a treasure. The inclusion of Tom Thomson as a visitor describing 'gold' on a nearby island has Bernice setting herself a mission to find what her beloved family needs to make things better for all.
Readers will be intrigued by Bernice and her family. They are fine people and bring an energetic feeling to the story, while also allowing for more serious matters concerning their Metis heritage. There are family discussions concerning the two cultures, French and Ojibway, and the fact they are neither. Throughout her story, the author introduces Michif French which the family speaks.
In an author's note, Ms. Outram explains that Bernice and her family were not allowed to speak their language at school, resulting in a loss of that language to future generations. Other changes in family circumstances were made to protect the family. Discrimination of the Metis people is highlighted and encourages the reader to learn more about Louis Riel and the Red River Rebellion, an important segment of Canadian history.
Characters are admirable and honest. Their relationships ring true as they work together, search for adventure, and learn about the world. The importance of family is evident throughout; Mamer plays a very important role as Elder and teacher. This is a worthwhile read for a middle grade classroom.
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