I Hope

I Hope is a picture book by Indigenous author Monique Gray Smith. Through simple text and illustrations, it shares messages about hopes and dreams. The narrative presents hopes that children and families hold for themselves, their communities, and the world. The book incorporates Indigenous perspectives and values throughout its pages. The story's focus on connection, belonging, and possibility creates a framework for conversations between adults and children about their own aspirations. Its themes of unity and understanding resonate across cultures while centering Indigenous worldviews and experiences.

Readers highlight this book's success in introducing hope and resilience to young children through simple text and vibrant illustrations. Parents and educators note its effectiveness in starting conversations about emotions and community support. Liked: - Age-appropriate handling of complex topics - Indigenous representation throughout illustrations - Short, repeating phrases that engage young readers - Message resonates with both children and adults - Works well for classroom read-alouds Disliked: - Some found the text too basic or repetitive - A few mentioned wanting more detailed cultural context - Higher price point for a short picture book Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (129 ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (24 ratings) "Perfect for helping children understand hope in tangible ways," wrote one teacher on Goodreads. An Indigenous parent noted, "Finally a book that shows my children faces like theirs in everyday situations." Several reviewers mentioned the book's value during challenging times, with one librarian calling it "a gentle tool for difficult conversations."

Speaking Our Truth by Monique Gray Smith Explores truth and reconciliation through Indigenous voices, shared experiences, and the journey toward understanding Canada's history with residential schools.

Fatty Legs by Christy Jordan-Fenton Presents a young Indigenous girl's determination to learn to read while surviving at a residential school in the Canadian Arctic.

Indian No More by Traci Sorell Chronicles a Native American family's relocation from their reservation to Los Angeles during the Indian termination policies of the 1950s.

The Orange Shirt Story by Phyllis Webstad Tells the origin of Orange Shirt Day through the account of a six-year-old girl's first day at residential school.

When We Were Alone by David Robertson Shows how a grandmother shares her residential school experiences with her granddaughter while tending their garden.

🌟 Author Monique Gray Smith is of Cree, Lakota, and Scottish ancestry and has dedicated her career to supporting Indigenous communities in healing and resilience. 📚 The book's cover features artwork by celebrated Coast Salish artist Gabrielle Tetrault, reflecting themes of hope and Indigenous culture. 🎯 Originally published in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, the book aims to inspire both Indigenous and non-Indigenous readers. 🌍 The book explores the concept of hope through Indigenous perspectives, weaving together traditional teachings with contemporary experiences. 🗣️ Monique Gray Smith wrote this book as a way to answer the question she frequently received from youth: "What is hope?"