Description
Which Way Should I Go is a recent picture book written by Sylvia Olsen and based on the memories of Olsen's friend Ron Martin. This picture book offers young children an opportunity to understand that we all have choices to make in our lives even if we are young. Joey is a young Nuuchahnulth boy who has a happy and cheerful disposition. Even his friend, his teacher, and the store owner notice that Joey always has a smile on his face. Joey explains that he smiles because he is happy, he does not get discouraged by difficult homework because he sees the bright side of things, and he is enthusiastic and helps whenever he can. All these qualities are due to Joey's favourite person, his grandmother. Joey loves to visit her and her home is filled with joy and caring. Grandmother teaches Joey a special song and dance that draws on the theme, which way should I go? Grandmother introduced Joey to additional songs as they explored the beach and the park. Grandmother always allowed Joey a choice at snack time. When grandmother suddenly dies, Joey finds it extremely difficult to remain happy and positive. After a period of mourning Joey reconsiders his grandmother's teachings and realizes he does have choices to make. Even if they are simple choices such as getting out of bed each morning and choosing to be happy Joey understands that he can decide for himself. Joey knows now that his grandmother left him with a special song and dance. This simple story is based on the memories of Ron Martin, a Nuuchahnulth historian. A memory of his grandparents' song is the bases for the collaboration with Sylvia Olsen. This is an important contribution to First Nations' children's literature and is highly recommended. This book is selected as a recommended title in the 2009 First Nations Libraries Community Reads program. The song, Which Way Should I Go?, is available at YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?gl=CA&hl=en&v=89IOGqfjESU