Description
By Wilfred Burton, a proud Michif, grew up in the Midnight Lake area of Saskatchewan. Illustrated by Hawlii Pichette, a Mushkego Cree (Treaty 9), urban, mixed-ancestry artist. Michif translation by Larry Fayant and Irma Klyne.
This beautifully illustrated Métis picture book is a feast for the eyes and a tickle for the funny bone, as Kohkum cooks up a HUGE order of bannock in her own kitchen, for the Queen and 299 guests!
This lively and whimsical tale begins with a letter from the government asking Kohkum to cook bannock for the Royal visit. Kohkum's grandson Xavier is as excited as she is, until they do the math and are shocked to learn that they are cooking not just for the Queen but for her entourage and guests too. A mad scramble ensues, with a rushed trip to the grocery store to buy a ridiculous amount of flour and milk, and a perilous trip home with the car stuffed with supplies and Xavier riding on the roof. Several aunties come to the rescue, helping with bannock assembly and sharing in the excitement of cooking for the Queen.
Written by an educator, this story provides many opportunities to count in English and Michif, with many laughs along the way as Kohkum, aunties, and Xavier scramble to cook the bannock in time for the Queen's visit. Boldly colourful, humourous illustrations by illustrator Hawlii Pichette bring this entertaining story to life. Full translation makes this book ideal for in-class cultural learning and Michif language acquisition. Audience: Grades Preschool-4.