Description
Ovila Fontaine is an Innu from the community of Uashat mak Mani-Utenam, where he has lived and worked all his life. From an early age he was interested in hunting and life in the forest. When he became a father, he embarked on a quest for his own history and culture. Today Ovila is an accomplished presenter, skilled at explaining the fundamentals of Innu culture and philosophy to the uninitiated. He is often called upon to act as a cultural ambassador for multiple organizations. Charlotte Parent is an illustrator based in Montreal. Translated by Ann Marie Boulanger.
A perfect tree brings joy in the coldest season
It is very cold in the Far North.
The Great Manitou knows that winter is the harshest season for the Innu, and decides to find a way to make winters a little brighter. Searching through the trees in the forest to find one to bring joy, beauty and warmth to all. Could it be the larch, the tree that the Innu use to make sleds, bows or ointments? The birch, malleable and robust? Or the magnificent black spruce? “Do you want to become the Christmas tree?” each one is asked. But one after the other, the trees decline the offer. All except one, the little fir tree, whom the Great Manitou had initially overlooked. This book contains 28 Colour illustrations. Audience: Ages 3-5.
Includes a selection of Innu words related to the story.
The original French version of this title, Le premier arbre de Noël, won a 2024 Governor General's Literary Award.