"nohkom mosahkinam. Nohkom picks.
nimosahkinenan. We pick."
This third book in the Nohkom series begins in sunshine at the edge of a lake. The family has arrived and are waiting while Nohkom prepares. They have their own jobs to do before they head out walking with their mother and grandmother, gathering basket in hand.
When Nohkom stops to listen, everyone stops. After a prayer, Nohkom shows her daughter and young granddaughters where to find the leaves they will need to brew Labrador tea. Together, they pick. Once back at the lake, there is time for rest. As the adults sit, the young ones throw themselves into the cool waters of the lake.
When the tea is made, it's time for a picnic. Everyone eats, while talking and sharing stories. The girls listen and then do their own talking while they wait in the car to return home.
Their story is simply told in Cree (including the syllabic form) and English at the bottom of each light-infused and lovely spread. The artwork appeals in every way ... acrylic paintings are textured and give readers a real feeling for the shared outing on a gorgeous summer day. A recipe for Labrador tea and one for an ointment made using Labrador tea leaves are included.
This book is an exceptional connection to Indigenous culture and love of the land and its many gifts. The first two books in the series are I Wait (2017) and I Help (2008).
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