Sarah Ponakey, Storycatcher, and Wâposos’s Friendship Garden

Gr 1-4–The final story in the “­Storycatcher” series is filled with a suspenseful plot, whimsical characters, familial love, and the ­values of respect and patience. Rich threads of Cree culture are captured in the setting and various subplots developed throughout. ­Sarah Ponakey is a witty, energetic, and intuitive Indigenous girl who is learning to navigate living in the city and meeting new friends while learning the nuances of her Cree identity. When her mother leaves for a business trip, Sarah is in charge of ­leading Kôhkom through the city. In an attempt to show her grandmother the community garden, they meet Arya, Sarah’s old friend, as well as a new friend named Anjali and her mooshum. The setting of the community garden brings to light significant Cree traditions and the magic of ­wâposos. The importance of nature, community, and language is celebrated on ­every page. The plot also thickens with the ­complexities of navigating new friendships and old friendships, as well as learning to control impatience and jealousy. Sarah’s emotions feel realistically portrayed, with the dialogue between ­characters ­revealing life lessons and ­teachable ­moments of change, acceptance, and respect. Young readers will appreciate the magic of the wâposos and the glossary for the Cree vocabulary used throughout. ­