By Melanie Florence, illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard
Second Story Press, 2017
Picture book, 24 pages, ages 6-9
A girl and her grandfather are walking along. “How do you say grandfather in Cree?” she asks. Her grandfather sadly explains that his Cree words were stolen from him when he was a boy. He was forcibly taken from his family and put into a school to learn white ways. Now he can’t remember the language of his heart. This deeply touches the girl, and she wants to find those stolen words for him. The next day at the school library, her teacher helps her find a small tattered book, Introduction to Cree. She brings it to her grandfather. The words in the book feel like home to him. Tîniki – thank you – he says.
A sad, beautiful, vital story about family, identity, and the language of your heart.
Inspired by her close relationship with her Cree grandfather, the author imagines a conversation she would have liked to have had with him. Her love shines through in every word.
Stolen Words is hopeful, heartfelt, and uplifting – but it is a heavy book. The feeling of loss is present on every page. The author does not shy away from the grandfather’s experience with injustice and abuse – she tells it honestly, authentically, and sensitively. There is nothing that would be inappropriate for children to see or read. Be prepared for questions and further discussion.
The bond between the grandfather and granddaughter in Stolen Words is strong. This is a welcome twist on the usual intergenerational story, where the grandparent helps or teaches the child. While the grandfather is undeniably wise, it’s the granddaughter who provides help and teaches her grandparent … and maybe even helps him start to heal. It’s all done with an abundance of love. Beautiful.
The illustrations are equally beautiful, with stunning visuals and imagery. The Cree words depicted as caged – then freed – crows are especially powerful and poignant.
Stolen Words by Melanie Florence gets 5 stars from this reviewer.
This book is also offered in a Cree/English version.