Description
The Legend of Lightning and Thunder is a traditional story from the Inuit about the origin of thunder and lightning specific to the Kivalliq region of Nunavut. Told in picture book format, the story is told from the perspective of two Inuit orphans. This traditional legend that has been told in the Kivalliq region of Nunavut for centuries, two siblings resort to stealing from their fellow villagers, and inadvertently introduce lightning and thunder into the world. This illustrated traditional legend weaves together elements of an origin story and a traditional cautionary tale, giving young readers an accessible window into centuries-old Inuit science teachings combined with perspectives that address the origin of stealing, and more importantly the treatment of outsiders. Author Paula Ikuutaq Rumbolt retells this traditional story in a contemporary manner that appeals to primary and junior level students. The full colour illustrations capture the essence of the story and feelings of the orphans as they are refused food during a village singing celebration. Artist Jo Rioux has been shortlisted for the 2014 Amelia Frances Howard-Gibbon Award by the Canadian Library Association. This award recognizes an illustrator of a noteworthy Canadian book, published in 2013, that appeals to children up to the age of 12 years.