A Day with Yayah

“This is probably the most beautiful “didactic” book I’ve ever encountered—grounded in solid, caring Indigenous family/community relationships, and in profound respect for children's need to interact closely with things that are worth investigating in their world.”

“This cheerful story of a spring-day outing ultimately balances instruction and entertainment. Flett's lovely collages add beauty and a fresh, contemporary tone, while the text captures the essence of the young learning from the old. Timeless values, such as gratitude for the earth, are seamlessly integrated.”

“By using a story about family and nature as a conduit to share Nle'kepmxcin, Campbell nimbly proves how the way we speak is intertwined with the rest of one's life, and why it is essential to preserve Indigenous languages with a new generation.”

“Campbell and Flett present the power of practicing Indigenous traditions and family values – for shaping strong, patient, smart, and loving characteristics in children. . .The distinct and unbreakable resiliency of Indigenous people is affirmed in this loving portrait of generational courage and fortitude.”

“In the Nicola Valley, British Columbia, where Interior Salishan peoples live, Nikki and friends forage for wild plants with relatives, including Yayah (grandmother). Yayah emphasizes the importance of plant identification and naming in their endangered Indigenous language, Nɬeʔkepmxcín. Using the text’s pronunciation guidance and the glossary, interested readers will learn along with the young characters. Quiet collage-like art emphasizes the land’s natural riches. Author’s note included.”